Loose Women star Brenda Edwards has expressed her “deep heartache” following the death of her son Jamal Edwards.
Edwards, 31, was a YouTube star and founder of SBTV, an online urban music platform which helped launch the careers of artists like Dave, Ed Sheeran and Jessie J.
Brenda, 52, paid tribute to her “inspiring” son in a statement following the news.
She wrote: “It is with the deepest heartache that I confirm that my beautiful son Jamal Edwards passed away yesterday morning after a sudden illness. Myself, his sister Tanisha and the rest of his family and friends are completely devastated.
“He was the centre of our world. As we come to terms with his passing we ask for privacy to grieve this unimaginable loss.
“I would like to thank everyone for their messages of love and support. Jamal was an inspiration to myself and so many.
“Our love for him lives on, his legacy lives on. Long live Jamal Edwards MBE, MBA, PHD.”
Luton-born Edwards, who moved to London, was appointed an MBE for services to music in 2014.
He also became an ambassador for the Prince’s Trust, which helps young people set up their own companies.
Scotland Yard said Mr Edwards’s death on Sunday morning was non-suspicious.
Tributes pour in for ‘wonderful’ Jamal
Chart-topper AJ Tracey was one of the first to pay tribute online, tweeting: “RIP Jamal Edwards, west London legend status”.
Chelsea legend John Terry posted online: “RIP my friend.”
Vauxhall MP Florence Eshalomi added: “Very sad hearing this loss. To have made such an impact at such a young age. Rest in peace Jamal Edwards.”
Rapper Dave, who was due to perform at the O2 arena this week, posted: “Thank you for everything. Words can’t explain.”
Chelsea and England star Reece James said: “I’m lost for words.”
Bafta-winning actor writer, director, and producer Adam Deacon, known for his leading role in Kidulthood, said he was “heartbroken”.
He said on Twitter: “Today I was on set when I found out the tragic news that my good friend Jamal Edwards had passed away and I’m honestly heartbroken.
“Jamal was one of the nicest, most down to earth and humble men I’ve met in this industry. He always gave me time even when no one else would.
“He was an inspiration and what he achieved in life was truly remarkable. Thinking of his friends and family at this devastating time. RIP Jamal Edwards.”
Edwards attended the Brit Awards earlier this month.
This year’s host, comedian Mo Gilligan reacted: “A truly humble and blessed soul. Your legacy will live on for years & you’ve inspired a whole generation.”
Very sad to hear that @jamaledwards has passed away. I first met him shortly after he founded SBTV. Trailblazing, magnetic and super talented he remained very committed to raising up all young people whatever their background. Gone far to soon. https://t.co/xUCR1azYOI
— David Lammy (@DavidLammy) February 20, 2022
Loose Women’s Denise Welch said: “My heart aches for my friend Brenda. I can’t bear it. Jamal Edwards was a wonderful son and brother.”
Musician and producer Elliot Gleave, better known by his stage name Example, also paid tribute.
In a post in Instagram, he wrote: “Can’t believe you’re gone. 31 years old. Can’t find the words right now.”
I think I can speak for us all as artists and as supporters of uk grime/rap scene when I say I owe this man so much! Helped me sometimes without even speaking of it. RIP Jamal Edwards💙 my guy man!!! Can’t believe I’m tweeting this. Legend. I love ya.
— Jaykae (@Jaykae10) February 20, 2022
Chelsea Football club, sharing a photo of Jamal wearing the club jersey, wrote: “ We’re deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Jamal Edwards. An inspiration to many, we’re honoured that he was part of our Chelsea family. Our thoughts are with everyone who knew and loved him.”
Comedian Kae Kurd wrote: “I cannot believe I’m typing this, this has floored me. RIP Jamal Edwards. Forged his own path. A trailblazer, always had a smile on his face and was nice to everyone. Rest in Peace bro.”
The Mobo Awards said: “We are deeply saddened to learn of Jamal Edwards passing. As the founder of @SBTVonline, his groundbreaking work and legacy in British music and culture will live on.
You @jamaledwards will be missed. We just lost one.
— Idris Elba (@idriselba) February 21, 2022
“Our hearts and thoughts are with his friends and family.”
Labour MP Zarah Sultana wrote: “The impact SBTV had on the UK’s music scene and British culture is immeasurable.
“Rest in peace, Jamal Edwards. My thoughts are with everyone who knew and loved him.”
