Minnesota-based TikTok comedian Joe Muchlinski — has reportedly died by suicide at the age of 32.
His sister, Martha Muchlinski, announced his passing in a video posted on TikTok on Monday.
Joe was known by his 170,000+ followers as @VonViddy.
In announcing Joe’s death, Martha said: “I do want to confirm for his fans that he did lose his long battle with mental illness, and he did take his own life. Joe fought a long and really terrible battle with his mental illness and all we can hope now is that he is at peace.”
Martha added that she wanted to provide “closure” for anyone who was a “VonViddy fan” and to just let people know what happened.
TMZ reported that Muchlinski had a history of battling mental health issues.
The New York Post reported that just hours before Joe’s death was announced, he uploaded a final clip to his TikTok.
In the post, Joe noted that he wanted to be remembered as a “creator of videos that made people laugh, and a creator of music.”
“I also want to be remembered as a camp counselor who helped kids to make happy memories,” he said.
Referencing personal struggles, Joe said: “I would rather not be remembered as an addict and an alcoholic who put his family through hell.”
Joe added that he was “thankful to have such a following” and that his fans meant “the world to him.”
“All in all, I’ve had a terrific life,” Joe concluded. “I’ve got to visit the other side of the world, and I’ve made tons of friends from all walks of life.”
He concluded the video by saying, “I have nothing to complain about, and I have nothing but peace and love for all of you.”
Joe’s fans have expressed shock and sadness at the news of his passing.
The New York Post noted several responses to Joe’s TikTok post:
“Your words are so haunting. I can’t believe you’re gone,” wrote one devastated viewer. “Rest in peace, VonViddy. Much love to his family, I am so sorry for your loss.”
Another wrote, “Von Viddy we love you. Thank you for all of the laughs. Truly heartbreaking.”
“Aw, Joe. You are remembered. You fought so hard,” said a third. “I know you can’t read this final message, but you did good, man. You did good.”
“TikTok meant a lot to him, it gave him joy, it gave him something to laugh at,” wrote a follower.
If you are struggling with suicidal thoughts or are experiencing a mental health crisis, please call the 24/7 National Suicide Prevention hotline at 988 or go to SuicidePreventionLifeline.org.
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