The theater community is mourning one of their own.
Kyle Birch, who starred in the West End production of A Strange Loop, has died, his agent Russell Smith confirmed. He was 26.
"My dear friend and client, Kyle Birch, passed away on the evening of Monday, December 2, 2024," Smith wrote on X, formerly known as Twitter, Dec. 4. "His passing leaves an unfillable void in the lives of all who knew him and in the hearts of those who admired his artistry. Kyle was more than a client or a performer–he was a light in our lives, a cherished friend, and a singular talent. There was only one Kyle."
He also reflected on Birch's "remarkable talent" that could "move audiences to tears."
"His voice wasn't just beautiful–it was soulful, powerful, and deeply resonant, capable of conveying emotions that stayed with you long after the final note," Smith wrote. "But beyond his artistry, Kyle was the most tender and lovely man I could ever hope to work with, a gentle and kind-hearted soul whose warmth made every interaction special."
The agent went on to gush over Birch's performance as the leading role of Usher in A Strange Loop at the Barbican Centre.
"He delivered a performance so profound and nuanced that anyone lucky enough to witness it could see just how extraordinary he truly was," Smith explained. "Kyle poured his heart into every moment on stage, leaving an indelible mark on all who watched him. He had me roaring with laughter one moment, and then moved to tears the very next second–both with the emotion of his storytelling and the overwhelming feeling of pride."
The rising star in the U.K. theatre scene, whose cause of death has not been shared, had also starred in Once On This Island, I'm Gonna Marry You Tobey Maguire and a touring production of The Color Purple.
In a GoFundMe that friends of his family set up to raise money for the actor's funeral expenses, the organizers shared insight into how the U.K. theater community was mourning the loss, noting, "His Majesty's Theatre dimmed their lights in memory of Kyle. Kyle's smile, laugh and soul will shine bright forever."