Theater Star Kyle Birch Dies at Age 26: ‘A Truly Remarkable Talent,’ Says Agent

Kyle Birch, a theater actor known for playing the lead role of Usher in the Tony-winning musical A Strange Loop in London’s West End, has died. He was 26 years old.

The late star’s longtime agent Russell Smith confirmed the sad news, beginning in a statement shared to X (formerly Twitter) on Thursday, Dec. 5, “Kyle was a truly remarkable talent, with vocal abilities that could move audiences to tears.”

“His voice wasn’t just beautiful — it was soulful, powerful and deeply resonant, capable of conveying emotions that stayed with you long after the final note,” Smith’s statement continued. “But beyond his artistry, Kyle was the most tender and lovely man I could ever hope to work with, a gentle and kindhearted soul whose warmth made every interaction special. I adored him.”

“He had a gorgeous smile that could light up any room, a presence that lifted spirits, and an energy that inspired everyone around him,” Smith added.

According to Playbill, Birch also appeared in a touring production of The Color Purple, as well as in Once on This Island and I’m Gonna Marry You Tobey Maguire, both at London’s Southwark Playhouse.

Additionally, the actor starred in a Bat Boy concert, held at the London Palladium.

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According to Smith, “Kyle’s star shone brightest when he took on the role of Usher in A Strange Loop at the Barbican,” the agent wrote in his statement. “As the leading man, he delivered a performance so profound and nuanced that anyone lucky enough to witness it could see just how extraordinary he truly was.”

“Kyle poured his heart into every moment on stage, leaving an indelible mark on all who watched him,” Smith continued. “He had me roaring with laughter one moment, and then moved to tears the very next second — both with the emotion of his storytelling and the overwhelming feeling of pride.”

Smith called being Birch’s agent “a privilege,” and said the late actor “became an integral part of my life, every single day.”

“I saw his face every day, spoke about him every day, and encouraged him to achieve his best every day. I was his biggest champion and his biggest fan, which makes sharing this heartbreaking news all the more difficult,” Smith continued, in part. “His passing leaves an unfillable void in the lives of all who knew him and in the hearts of those who admired his artistry.”

“Kyle was more than a client or a performer — he was a light in our lives, a cherished friend, and a singular talent. There was only one Kyle,” he added. “My thoughts and deepest condolences are with his family and loved ones during this profoundly difficult time. Let us honor Kyle by remembering the joy he brought into the world, the magic he created, and the love he so generously shared.”

“Rest in peace, Kyle. You will be missed more than words can ever express, but your legacy will live on in every heart you touched,” Smith concluded.

A GoFundMe campaign has been set up to assist Birch’s loved ones with funeral expenses. A cause of death has not been disclosed.