The world is mourning the loss of iconic rapper, songwriter and actor Earl Simmons — aka DMX — who has died at the age of 50 after a heart attack a week ago. His family released an official statement confirming the news.

“We are deeply saddened to announce today that our loved one, DMX, birth name of Earl Simmons, passed away at 50 years old at White Plains Hospital with his family by his side after being placed on life support for the past few days,” the statement reads in part. “Earl was a warrior who fought till the very end. He loved his family with all of his heart and we cherish the times we spent with him. Earl’s music inspired countless fans across the world and his iconic legacy will live on forever. We appreciate all of the love and support during this incredibly difficult time. Please respect our privacy as we grieve the loss of our brother, father, uncle and the man the world knew as DMX. We will share information about his memorial service once details are finalized.”

To honor DMX, we’re revisiting some of his most iconic film roles:

Belly

In 1998, DMX made his feature film acting debut as Tommy “Buns” Bundy in the Hype Williams-directed film, Belly. Starring alongside fellow rapper Nas, TLC’s Tionne “T-Boz” Watkins and Method Man, DMX stars as a drug dealer who seeks deeper into the lifestyle of criminality.

Romeo Must Die

As nightclub owner Silk in Romeo Must Die, DMX starred alongside leading lady Aaliyah and Jet Li in this modern retelling of Romeo and Juliet. In true Shakespearean fashion, DMX meets his fatal demise towards the end of the film. Other than lending his acting talents, DMX also contributed to the film’s soundtrack, most notably his duet with Aaliyah, “Back In One Piece.”

Cradle 2 Da Grave

DMX reunited with Jet Li and starred alongside Gabrielle Union in the 2003 action film Cradle 2 Da Grave. Starring as Anthony Fait, a master jewel thief whose daughter is kidnapped by a rival criminal, DMX took home the crown when the film debuted at number one at the U.S. box office.

Exit Wounds

DMX joined forces with action star Steven Seagal in the 2001 film Exit Wounds, in which he stars as local drug dealer Latrell Walker. The film  ebuted at number one at the box office, grossing $80 million at the international box office on a gross of $33 million.

 

Our thoughts are with all of DMX’s family members and loved ones at this time.