We our sad to announce that Soul Train creator Don Cornelius was found dead in his Sherman Oaks, CA home this morning, and law enforcement says it appears he committed suicide.
According to TMZ, cops discovered the body at around 4 AM PT. Cornelius died from a gunshot wound to the head and officials believe the wound was self-inflicted.
We’re told Cornelius was taken to the hospital where he was pronounced dead.
“Soul Train” changed the landscape of television when it debuted in 1971 and ran until 2006.
Officials have notified Don’s family. Cornelius was 75.
During Don’s bitter divorce proceedings in 2009, he told an L.A. judge he was suffering from “significant health issues” and wanted to “finalize this divorce before I die.”
Cornelius was arrested in 2008 for beating up his wife. He pled no contest to misdemeanor domestic violence and was placed on 3 years probation. The divorce was granted in 2010.
Sources close to Don tell TMZ that the TV icon was plagued with health issues for years. including a stroke and a condition that required brain surgery.
Shawn Holley — Don’s lawyer and good friend says, “This is devastating news. Don was a kind, funny and brilliant man. Even though his many health battles had left him frail, he remained vibrant, courtly and always sharp as a tack.”
Legendary singer Aretha Franklin had this to say, “It’s so shocking and stunning, God bless him. He created a solid and broad foundation for young people and adults alike to socialize, dance and have good clean fun. He united the young adult community single-handedly and globally. With the inception of Soul Train, a young, progressive brother set the pace and worldwide standard for young aspiring African American men and entrepreneurs in TV—out of Chicago. He transcended cultural barriers among young adults. They became one. Everybody loved Soul Train and appreciated Don!”
Check back for updates as more details on Cornelius’ death are revealed.
