He was known for appearing in the video for Lady Gaga’s “Born This Way”
Heavily tattooed Canadian model Rick Genest – often known as ‘Zombie Boy’ due to his distinctive ink – has been found dead in Montreal.
Police told Radio-Canada that his death is being treated as a suicide.
Genest was known for his incredible skeleton tattoos that covered the majority of his body, making him look like a reanimated zombie. After working at sideshows and freakshows in his native Canada, he appeared in the video for Lady Gaga’s “Born This Way”.
The singer became close friends with Genest, and tweeting saying that his death was “beyond devastating”.
https://twitter.com/ladygaga/status/1025171911138004992
His friendship with Gaga lead to modelling work, including appearing in Vogue Hommes Japan and GQ Style, and in campaigns for Jay-Z Roc-A-Wear.
https://twitter.com/Christianiett/status/1025165963803680768
https://twitter.com/666bloodyelite/status/1025163401239191553
He also acted in several movies, including 47 Ronin with Keanu Reeves.
Anyone can contact Samaritans free any time from any phone on 116 123. This number won’t show up on your phone bill. Or you can email jo@samaritans.org or visit www.samaritans.org to find details of your nearest branch.
