Fallen comedian Alex Lumu Ssempala, popularly known by his stage name King Kong. COURTESY PHOTO
Kyadondo East MP Robert Kyagulanyi Ssentamu popularly known as Bobi Wine has joined hundreds of funs in the entertainment industry to mourn comedian Alex Lumu Ssempala, popularly known by his stage name King Kong.
In his condolence message, the politician cum musician said: “Our Entertainment industry has suffered yet another blow. Rest in peace #McKingKong. My deepest condolences.”
King Kong, 31, passed on at about 6am on Sunday at Kisansa Kanyanya Domiciliary Clinic where he had been admitted since last Friday.
Mr Allan Kibuuka, a comedian and a close friend to King Kong, said the deceased had complained of malaria-related symptoms, which he ignored, before his condition worsened.
He subsequently booked at the clinic.
There was conflicting information by yesterday about burial arrangements. Whereas the family had wanted him interred yesterday in line with Islamic doctrine requiring the dead to be buried immediately, some relatives and entertainers proposed the burial for 4pm today since the deceased was a public figure and his sendoff, according to them, needed to be preceded by public viewing of the body.
The comedian was born in Gomba District, named Hassan and practised Islam before becoming a Christian. He was subsequently baptised Alex, a name he used until his death.
Last moments
Comedian Felix Jesero, also known as Dolibondo, said he met King Kong a fortnight ago during a comedy show at Rock Gardens in Kampala.
“We didn’t talk a lot but he only asked me to help him get copy rights for his YouTube Channel which I agreed and told him we could meet again and do it,” he said.
They met again last Tuesday and Dolibondo said King Kong looked to be in perfect health and news of his death was a “surprise”.
In December 2015, King Kong was involved in a nasty accident on Lugogo Bypass, damaging his left eye that he since been covering.
He was known for both Stand-up and Sketch comedy, and performed in Comedy Outfits, Mic Check, Jazz Comedy, Akandolindoli and Comedy Store groups.
King Kong is survived by a widow and two children.
