YouTube sensation Keenan Cahill has died at the age of 27. The much-loved social media star who worked with both actress Jennifer Aniston and singer Katy Perry passed away on Thursday afternoon and following complications from open heart surgery. Cahill’s manager, David Graham, broke the news via a statement and after Keenan was taken off life support. Keenan shot to fame back in 2010 via viral videos. His appeal quickly caught the eye of celebrities including Friends star Aniston, singer Justin Bieber , and pop star Perry.
Passed Away Aged 27
Keenan was diagnosed with Maroteaux-Lamy syndrome in childhood. Two weeks ago, he let fans know that he would be undergoing surgery on December 15.
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“For those who are asking. December 15th is the date of surgery,” he wrote in an Instagram Story. Per MedPlus, Maroteaux-Lamy syndrome is a “progressive condition that causes many tissues and organs to enlarge, become inflamed or scarred, and eventually waste away.”
Fans Are Sending In Tributes
Tributes have been pouring in. “I am saddened by the news of Keenan’s passing. He had a sweet spirit and fun energy and brought a lot of joy to people with his YouTube videos. My thoughts and prayers are with his loved ones during this difficult time. May he rest in peace,” one fan wrote.
Keenan was also known for appearing with high-profile stars. In 2011, he featured alongside 53-year-old Jennifer Aniston in a campaign for Smart Water. He was born in Elmhurst, IL and also featured in singer Sara Bareilles’ music video, “Uncharted.”
Loved By Celebs
Keenan also performed at the 2011 American Music Awards and met singer Katy Perry during her California Dreams Tour , then going on to perform in the reality judge’s “Teenage Dream” music video.
Fans Say He Put A Smile On Their Faces
Also replying on Instagram was one fan who will miss the joy that Cahill brought. “Rest in peace, you were someone i loved as a child. it sucks to hear the news of your passing. Thank you for being able to put a smile on thousands of faces over the years. rest easy Keenan,” they wrote.
Photos have also been circulating of Cahill with various celebrities. Shared across the internet have been snaps of him with singer Jason Derulo and Andy Grammer, plus pop star Ciara. He received his medical diagnosis at the age of one. In 1997, he underwent a bone marrow transplant. Fans are likely finding this week especially hard.
