'Fuller House' Writer, 'That Girl Lay Lay' Creator David A. Arnold Dies At 54

Actor, comedian and producer David A. Arnold, who worked on shows such as Fuller House and created Nickelodeon’s That Girl Lay Lay, has died at 54.

Comedian, writer, actor, and producer David A. Arnold died on September 7. Arnold got his start performing stand-up comedy and went on to land roles in several comedy series, including Meet The Browns (TBS), The Rickey Smiley Show (TV One), Raising Whitley (OWN), and Tyler Perry’s House of Payne (TBS).

In addition to acting, Arnold also wrote and produced television series, including Netflix’s Fuller House and Nickelodeon’s hit series That Girl Lay Lay, making him one of few Black showrunners in Hollywood.

David A. Arnold's family confirmed his death in a statement.

“It is with great sadness that we confirm the untimely passing of our husband, father, brother and friend, David A. Arnold,” the family shared. “David passed away peacefully today in his home and doctors have ruled the cause of death due to natural causes. Please keep our family in prayer and respect our privacy at this time, as we are all shocked and devastated by this loss.”

According to Deadline, Arnold was Arnold was three stops into a four-month national comedy tour at the time of his death.

Arnold's best friend Chris Spencer issued a statement mourning the comedian's death.

Similar to his family, Arnold’s best friend, comedian Chris Spencer, also issued a statement grieving this unexpected loss.

“Our closely knit comedy community mourns the loss of one of the greatest to ever do it,” Spencer wrote. “He was admired by his peers, respected by other veterans, and looked up to by the burgeoning comedians that he mentored. He will be deeply missed, especially by his comedy fraternity.”

Arnold is survived by his wife, Julie L. Harkness, and two children, Anna-Grace and Ashlyn.