Gamer and professional commentator Michael “KiXSTaR” Stockley has passed away at the age of 24, his family confirmed in a statement on Wednesday. 

“On Monday, October 11 Michael ‘KiXSTAr’ Stockley passed away unexpectedly. He had so much planned for the future, and he was looking forward to working with so many of you. Michael worked hard to lift up the R6 Siege community, and in turn so many of you lifted him up as well,” Stockley’s family said in the statement. 

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The 24-year-old’s mother Carol and stepfather Thomas added, “We are grateful for the love and support that we have experienced from so many of you. Keep it going, pay it forward, and keep lifting each other up.”

Rainbow Six Esports also paid tribute to the 24-year-old.

“We send our deepest condolences to Michael Stockley’s family during this difficult time. Michael was one of the bright lights of our Siege community and he will be missed,” Rainbow Six Esports said. 

The cause of death was not known. 

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Stockley was an Esports Awards color commentator in 2020 and was nominated for the same award in the 2021 iteration of the awards. 

Following his death, several of his fans shared their tributes on social media.

“I don’t even know what to say man, Kix was one of the most supporting people to me when i started as a pro this is completely heartbreaking. RIP Kix,” one person wrote.

“RIP Kix. I just played with you in FPL fight club and had such an amazing time man and I have nothing but respect for you. We will all miss you,” another person commented.

“RIP kix man…lost a founding pillar of the siege community today. He was around when very few people cared about esports in the scene and continued to promote and dedicate himself to siege esports ecosystem throughout the years. Wishing the family well in this time,” wrote another person.