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Why was Rolling Ray wheelchair-bound? A look at his health battles before death at 28

Rolling Ray, known for appearing in shows like MTV's Catfish: Trolls and Divorce Court, died on September 3.

Published on: Sep 4, 2025, 21:21:38 IST
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Reality TV star and influencer Rolling Ray's tragic demise at the age of 28 has shocked his fans and followers. Ray, whose real name was Raymond Harper, was highly popular for coining the term “purr.”

Rolling Ray died at the age of 28 on September 3. (@iamrollingray on Instagram)
Rolling Ray died at the age of 28 on September 3. (@iamrollingray on Instagram)

According to People magazine, a spokesperson at Maryland's Office of the Chief Medical Examiner confirmed that his death was reported on September 3, just days before the influencer was scheduled to celebrate his 29th birthday on September 5.

Rolling Ray's mother, Shazola Nay, confirmed his death in a post on social media, while Zeus Network has posted a tribute on Instagram.

He was suffering from Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA) Type 3, according to Daily Mail.

As per the NHS website, the rare genetic condition can lead to weakness in muscles. The situation becomes worse over a period of time, but there are several medicines as well as treatments to help patients manage the symptoms.

This is the reason why Ray used a wheelchair.

Also Read: Rolling Ray net worth: DC influencer and reality star dies at 28

During his appearance on I Got Time Today, Ray once said that doctors had noted that he "was going to die at 14 years old, years ago."

"The doctor was wrong, they told my mom that I was going to die at 14, but you know, science changed and doctors are not always right," Prime Timer quoted him as saying.

Rolling Ray's health scare

Last year, Ray discussed a major health scare with his nearly 450,000 followers on Instagram and said he was taken into intensive care at Howard University Hospital after facing breathing issues. He also battled Covid-19 and pneumonia.

Also Read: What happened to Rolling Ray? Musician's mother's alleged ‘death’ post surfaces

In 2021, Ray survived an accidental fire after he tried to light a cigarette and ended up burning part of his wig.

FAQs:

What happened to Rolling Ray?

Ray's cause of death has not been revealed so far.

How old was Rolling Ray?

He was 28 and was set to celebrate his 29th birthday on September 5.

What problem was Rolling Ray suffering from?

The social media star had been diagnosed with Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA) Type 3.

 
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HT US Desk

The Hindustan Times US Desk brings you the latest news and developments from across the United States. The team covers everything from breaking news and politics to sports, business, entertainment and stories that are trending across the country. Our coverage includes the White House, Congress, US elections, immigration and visa updates, H-1B, green cards, Social Security, education, jobs, layoffs, the economy, technology and major policy changes. We also closely follow stories that matter to Indian and South Asian communities in the US. The desk covers major US sports, including the NFL, NBA, MLB and NHL, along with player news, injuries, schedules, results and major events. Entertainment coverage includes Hollywood, celebrities, television, streaming, music and pop culture. We also report on breaking developments, major incidents, weather, public safety, court cases and other stories making headlines across the country. When a major policy or news development affects people's everyday lives, the team works to explain what happened, what it means and what readers need to know. Alongside breaking news, the US Desk produces explainers and practical stories on topics such as immigration, Social Security, taxes, education, employment and government programmes. The team also works on science, tech, business and AI stories analyzing the impact they may have on people. The team follows developments throughout the day, keeping an eye on official announcements, public records, reliable news sources and what people are talking about across the US.

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