Canadian rapper and influencer Lil Tay reportedly still alive (Updated)
UPDATE: Lil Tay is reportedly alive. She sent a statement to TMZ, saying that her Instagram was hacked and was used to "used to spread jarring misinformation and rumors" about her.
ORIGINAL TEXT:
Canadian rapper and influencer Lil Tay, born Claire Hope, has reportedly died at the age of 14.
A statement was shared on her verified Instagram account, which has 3.4 million followers. Hope's management confirmed the news to Variety.
“It is with a heavy heart that we share the devastating news of our beloved Claire’s sudden and tragic passing,” the statement read. “We have no words to express the unbearable loss and indescribable pain. This outcome was entirely unexpected, and has left us all in shock."
It also noted now her brother's passing "adds an even more unimaginable depth to our grief."
"During this time of immense sorrow, we kindly ask for privacy as we grieve this overwhelming loss, as the circumstances surrounding Claire and her brother’s passing are still under investigation," it continued.
"Claire will forever remain in our hearts, her absence leaving an irreplaceable void that will be felt by all who knew and loved her.”
Hope's last Instagram post was in June 2018.
Variety reported that at the time, she was launched into a custody battle between her parents even as suspicious allegations appeared online about her family situation and safety.
She also reportedly posted an Instagram Story with the words "help me," while her account was wiped clean.
Hope rose to fame when she was 9, posting expletive-laden rap videos about having a lavish lifestyle. She dubbed herself the "youngest flexer of the century."
She collaborated with the likes of Chief Keef and XXXTentacion.
Hope stirred controversy for using the N-word though apologized later to those she had "offended," Variety reported.
