It is believed that Genest died by suicide just days before what would have been his 33rd birthday next Tuesday.
He was found dead at his home in Montreal, Canada, according to reports.
The model rose to fame in 2011 when he appeared in a music video for Lady Gaga’s ‘Born This Way.’
Lady Gaga paid her respects to her friend on social media, tweeting: “The suicide of friend Rick Genest, Zombie Boy is beyond devastating.”
“We have to work harder to change the culture, bring Mental Health to the forefront and erase the stigma that we can’t talk about it. If you are suffering, call a friend or family today. We must save each other,” she added.
https://twitter.com/ladygaga/status/1025171911138004992
Genest was operated on at a young age because of a brain tumour and suffered from mental health issues throughout his life.
He got his first tattoo at 13 and within three years, his whole body was covered with bone and organs drawings.
His unusual body art earned him a Guinness World Record for most insects tattooed on the body. He had 176.
Other people who knew him also paid their respects.
Absolutely heartbroken. Rest in Power, Zombie Boy. Sending all my condolences and love to Rico’s family and friends. If you ever need help, reach out. 1-800-273-8255 is the number for the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline. You’re not alone pic.twitter.com/AuapCxj2FU
— NICOBOY.ETH (@formichetti) August 3, 2018
https://twitter.com/maddyoper/status/1025160491092590592
https://twitter.com/SHARON_NEEDLES/status/1025175172804952064
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