Actor And Rapper Derek Keith Barbosa, Otherwise Known As Chino XL, Passes At 50

Actor and rapper Derek Keith Barbosa, better known as Chino XL, passed away suddenly on Sunday at the age of 50.

Friends and family confirmed Barbosa's death on social media which caught the hip-hop community by surprise leaving fans in shock at Barbosa's sudden and early passing.

Barbosa's daughters issued a joint statement saying, "Our father had many titles — King of Punchlines, Puerto Rican Superhero — but the most important one was Girl Dad. And what he gave us most in that role was his strength, straightforwardness, and ability to be super realistic. The main thing we are feeling now is that our Dad is at peace, and so we are at peace."

Barbosa leaves behind a large family as he had four immediate children and one stepson.

He's also survived by his mother, his longtime partner, and multiple grandchildren who will no doubt miss him dearly.

Underground Icon

Barbosa was a fixture of underground hip-hop culture as the Bronx-born artist would work with Rick Rubin, who is one of the biggest producers in music having a key role in popularizing hip-hop.

He released his debut album in 1996 to critical acclaim and he really took off when he co-starred with Eminem, KRS-One, and RZA on Say & King Tech’s epic single, “The Anthem,” in 1999.

He would even get involved in a feud with rapper Tupac Shakur, but Tupac was killed soon after in an infamous driveby shooting that has yet to be solved.

After his hip-hop career took off in the late '90s Barbosa got involved in acting and had several appearances on “The Young and the Restless,” “Reno 911!” and “CSI: Miami."

Barbosa was a beloved fixture of his community and his sudden passing was met with shock and sadness.

Tributes Pour In

Rappers, producers, and media personalities who worked with Barbosa took to social media to celebrate Barbosa's career and accomplishments as well as give condolences to his family.

Rapper KXNG Crooked reacted to Barbosa's passing on X saying, "We spoke on the phone the other day and laughed. Our careers have been tied together since the Wake Up Show freestyles decades ago. I’m fucked up. Rest in Peace my brother Chino XL."

The family has not shared details that would indicate his cause of death at this time and fans will likely have to wait to get answers.

In the meantime, Barbosa's family asks for privacy as they navigate this tragic loss.