May 10 (UPI) -- Christopher 'Big Black' Boykin, known for starring on MTV's Rob & Big alongside professional skateboarder Rob Dyrdek, has died at the age of 45.
Boykin died Tuesday from a heart attack, People magazine reported citing a rep for the reality star.
"MTV is deeply saddened to learn the news of Christopher 'Big Black' Boykin's passing," the network said in a statement to E! News. "He was a long time and beloved member of the MTV family and will be greatly missed. Our thoughts and prayers go out to his family and friends at this time."
Boykin appeared on three seasons on the comedy-based Rob & Big as Dyrdek's bodyguard before the show ended after the duo had a falling out.
After reconciling, Boykin would go on to appear on multiple episodes of Rob Dyrdek's Fantasy Factory and other MTV programs such as Ridiculousness, Guy Code and Snack Off. Boykin also launched a pair of plus-sized clothing lines named Big Man Network and Big Dime Pieces.
Co-star and fellow MTV star Chanel West Coast shared her condolences on Twitter writing, "RIP @BigBlack. My heart is crushed. I'll remember all the times you made me laugh and my prayers go out to your family."
RIP @BigBlack. My heart is crushed. I'll remember all the times you made me laugh and my prayers go out to your family ❤️🙏🏼😢
— Chanel (@chanelwestcoast) May 10, 2017
Boykin is survived by his 9-year-old daughter Isis Rea Boykin.
