The social media community is grieving the death of John Crawley, widely recognized on TikTok as KingBeardX. The 47-year-old creator, renowned for his funny reaction videos and signature bushy beard, died on August 18, 2025, following a sudden health issue.

His passing has led to a wave of sorrow among fans and fellow content creators, emphasizing the significant influence he had on his vast online audience.

What Was John Crawley’s Official Cause of Death?

John Crawley’s death was due to cardiac arrest, verified by James Steele, the funeral director at Glenfield Funeral Home in New Albany, Mississippi. This was confirmed after Crawley had spent at least two weeks in the hospital due to severe breathing issues.

He was taken to the North Mississippi Medical Center in Tupelo early in August, once he began having difficulty breathing, signaling the start of a swift and heartbreaking decline in his condition.

“Knowing him personally, John was a kind person. He brightened many lives. I just visited his home and was with his mother; we prayed together. She’s deeply saddened right now, but she’ll get through it.” – James Steele, Funeral Director at Glenfield Funeral Home

TikTok Star John Crawley Dead at 47 https://t.co/JeuxbvFWKs pic.twitter.com/fIJt1dlom9

— TMZ (@TMZ) August 19, 2025

A Timeline of KingBeardX’s Final Health Struggle

Crawley’s health crisis started in early August when he was hospitalized with severe breathing problems. His friend and former podcast co-host, Anthony Caruso, initiated a GoFundMe campaign on August 5th to help with medical bills, noting that doctors had placed him on a ventilator.

When his oxygen levels dropped dangerously low and he stopped breathing, he was moved to the intensive care unit (ICU). A tube was later placed in his chest in an effort to stabilize his worsening condition .

“John is the main breadwinner for his family, and unfortunately, he doesn’t have medical insurance. His condition is quite unstable, and we’re all worried about him.” – Anthony Caruso, via the GoFundMe page

The Heartbreaking Hospitalization Announcement

The public first learned of Crawley’s dire situation through the GoFundMe campaign organized by Anthony Caruso. The fundraiser was initially created to address the significant financial burden of his medical care, as Crawley was the primary provider for his family and did not have health insurance.

The page detailed his unstable condition and expressed the deep concern felt by his loved ones. Following his passing, the purpose of the fundraiser shifted to covering funeral expenses and supporting his mother.

How Did the News of His Passing Break?

Caruso delivered the devastating update on the GoFundMe page on Tuesday, August 19th, informing fans that Crawley had died the previous day. The announcement prompted an immediate flood of tributes and condolences from his millions of followers across TikTok and Instagram. Fans expressed their shock and sadness, sharing how his content had brought joy and laughter into their lives during difficult times.

“I’m really sorry to tell everyone the bad news but Pimpmunkx (KingBeardx) passed away yesterday.” – Anthony Caruso, via the GoFundMe update