MTV's 'Yo Momma' co-host Sam Sarpong dies at 40

PASADENA, Calif., Oct. 29 (UPI) -- Former co-host of MTV's Yo Mamma and model Sam Sarpong has died at the age of 40 his rep confirmed Thursday.

"It is with great sadness that the family of Samuel Sarpong, Jr. must share the news that Sam has passed away," the rep said in a statement on the family's behalf. "The family appreciates the thoughts prayers and other expressions of sympathy, and request their privacy be respected at this extremely difficult time."

Sarpong died after jumping off a bridge in Pasadena, Calif., according to E! News. The Los Angeles County Department of Medical Examiner-Coroner has ruled his death a suicide, with an autopsy pending. On Monday, Pasadena law enforcement responded to a call of a man on a bridge confirmed to be Sarpong.

"Tragically, after approximately seven hours of communication, the male jumped from the bridge," the police statement reads.

The British-American star was a model for Tommy Hilfiger for six years and walked runways for other brands such as Gucci, Versace and Dolce & Gabbana. Sarpong is most-known for his time as co-host of MTV's Yo Mamma alongside Wilmer Valderrama. The show focused around pitting trash-talkers against each other to see who would win in a war of words.

Sarpong's other screen credits include Bones, 24, ER, Veronica Mars and will be seen later this year in American Crime Story. Sarpong is survived by his father Samuel Sarpong Sr. and his sister June Sarpong.