Gene "Groove" Allen, the rapper and actor celebrated for his roles in early '90s classics like House Party and What's Love Got to Do with It, has passed away at 62.
According to TMZ, Allen died suddenly on Wednesday at his Maryland home due to a medical emergency. His family noted that his passing was unexpected, though no foul play is suspected.
Born and raised in Long Island, New York, Allen gained prominence as a member of the hip-hop trio Groove B. Chill, alongside Daryl "Chill" Mitchell and Belal "DJ Belal" Miller.
The group released their album Starting From Zero in 1990 and appeared in the cult classic House Party the same year, with Allen delivering a memorable performance as Kid's inebriated dance partner.
He reprised his role in House Party 2 and made a brief cameo in the 1993 Tina Turner biopic, What's Love Got to Do with It.
In recent years, Allen dedicated himself to community work, raising funds for military families and women's shelters as the president and CEO of Groove E. Productions.
Just days before his passing, he shared a video from a recent performance on Instagram, captioning it, "2025!!! I ain't playing..."
Tributes from the hip-hop community have poured in. Eric B. of Eric B. & Rakim shared on Instagram: "Got a call from my brother chill that his brother groove passed away. Dam rest in peace brother groove we will continue to celebrate your life. let the house party continue on thanks for the great music and movie moments."
DJ Premier commented, "My condolences. Loved their music on Uptown and his character in House Party as the drunk."
Allen is survived by his wife and three children.
Countless fans have since taken to social media to share their devastation in the wake of Allen's passing.
One fan penned: "Just heard the very sad news that actor Gene Allen has passed away suddenly at the age of 63.
"I'll never forget the hilarious scene in House Party where he got absolutely smashed and keeled over during the dance off. "May he sleep peacefully."
Another wrote: "Another legend gone too soon. Rest easy, Gene."
A third added: "RIP to actor Gene Allen. Costar in one of my fav movies from my childhood."
Our thoughts are with Gene Allen's loved ones at this difficult time.