The tech and online community is reeling after news broke of the death of popular tech influencer LaMarr Wilson. He was 48.
Wilson, known to millions of fans as the “Tech Lifestyle Entertainer,” died by suicide, with the Los Angeles County Medical Examiner ruling the cause of death as asphyxiation. He died at a residence on Friday, Nov. 21. His family confirmed the tragic news in a Facebook post shared on Dec. 13, according to TMZ and People.
“It is with deep feelings of hurt and pain that the family of LaMarr Wilson would like to make this statement regarding our beloved family member LaMarr Wilson passing and what he aspired to become with YouTube, Google and all his social media platforms he loved working with,” the family wrote, reflecting on his achievements and legacy.
At the time of his death, Wilson had recently been appointed as a judge for the upcoming CES Innovation Awards, scheduled for January 4, 2026, at the Mandalay Bay Convention Center in Las Vegas—an honor his family said meant a great deal to him.
Born in Chicago, Illinois, on October 22, 1977, Wilson launched his YouTube channel in 2008. Over a 17-year career, he became widely known for his unboxing videos and comedic reviews of tech products, video games, and smart devices, earning the nickname “That Unboxing Guy.” He later expanded into short-form content on platforms such as TikTok and Instagram during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Wilson amassed more than 2.21 million subscribers on YouTube and over 3.5 million followers across YouTube, TikTok, and Instagram. He collaborated with major brands including Google, Apple, Xbox, LG, and Nintendo, and was regarded as a trusted tech host and reviewer. His success also led to the launch of his own merchandise line, including T-shirts and phone cases, with reports estimating his net worth in the millions by 2021.
Beyond social media, Wilson contributed to the Daily Tech News Show podcast for more than a decade and hosted and produced Mashable’s online series YouTube Weekly and Socially Awkward. He also appeared in the first episode of George Takei’s show Takei’s Take, which earned a 2014 Webby Award for online film and video in technology.
Before relocating to Los Angeles, Wilson worked as a tech educator in Chicago and Milwaukee public schools, using his IT skills to support students and staff. His family shared that his uncle, Tony Wilson, helped guide him early in his YouTube journey, while his mother instilled in him a strong foundation in education and entrepreneurship.
Just weeks before his death, Wilson marked his 48th birthday with a candid Instagram post about his health journey, revealing he had lost 48 pounds and felt a renewed sense of peace. “I feel good, I’m genuinely at peace,” he wrote—words that have since resonated deeply with fans mourning his loss.
Tributes continue to pour in from fans, fellow creators, and members of the tech community, honoring LaMarr Wilson’s humor, influence, and lasting impact.
If you or someone you know is struggling, help is available. In the U.S., you can call or text the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline at 988 for free, confidential support.
