Louie Rankin’s Final Bow: Manager Kama Shares Intimate Details of a Legend’s Last Days

Louie Rankin, the acclaimed Jamaican dancehall superstar and actor known for his roles as Ox in “Belly” and Teddy Brukshut in “Shottas,” tragically died on September 30, 2019. He was involved in a car accident on Highway 89 near Shelburne, Ontario, Canada, when his passenger vehicle collided with a transport truck. He was pronounced dead at the scene. At the time of his death, he was 66 years old and had recently been in Toronto filming a movie.

In this exclusive WorldWide Entertainment TV Network interview, the former manager and friend of Louie Rankin breaks down his final days. Kama reveals the legendary artist and actor of Jamaican descent recently had plans to release a new album and movie before his untimely death.

The Toronto rapper also details an eerily similar situation he encountered driving to Louie Rankin’s home where he may have received the same fate in a car accident. He explains Louie Rankin was the real deal, but he was facing physical limitations due to his age.

LIFE & TIMES OF LOUIE RANKIN

Born in Saint Thomas Parish, Jamaica, and raised in the vibrant musical hotbeds of Rockfort and East Kingston, Louie Rankin emerged on the dancehall scene with a distinctive voice and an undeniable presence. His career spanned decades, but it was his 1992 hit single, “Typewriter,” that truly propelled him to international acclaim. The track, with its infectious rhythm and Rankin’s commanding delivery, cemented his status as a lyrical force and a true innovator in the genre. He often proudly claimed the “Original Don Dada” moniker, a testament to his self-assured style and pioneering spirit in a competitive landscape.

Beyond his musical prowess, Louie Rankin transitioned seamlessly into acting, where his authentic portrayal of Jamaican “gangstas” captivated audiences worldwide. His most iconic roles include the menacing “Ox” in Hype Williams’ 1998 cult classic “Belly,” starring alongside hip-hop giants Nas and DMX. He further solidified his acting reputation as “Teddy Brukshut” in the equally revered 2002 film “Shottas.” These roles were not just performances; they were a raw, unfiltered depiction of a world many knew little about, brought to life with Rankin’s gritty realism and magnetic screen presence. His work in film left a major impact, as he himself stated, “My life was changed when I did ‘Belly’ because it became one of the biggest ever blockbusters in gangster movie history. It was like a version of ‘Scarface.’ So it had a major impact and did a lot for me as an actor.”

WORLDWIDE ARTIST AND MOVIE STAR

Louie Rankin was a true global citizen, performing across the United States, Canada, the Caribbean, and beyond. He had made Toronto, Ontario, Canada, his home for several years, becoming a beloved figure in the local community and even a fervent supporter of the Toronto Raptors. Just prior to his untimely death, he was actively working on a new album and was on set in Toronto filming a new movie, showcasing his relentless dedication to his craft right up to his last moments.

His life, however, was cut tragically short on September 30, 2019, when he was involved in a fatal car accident on Highway 89 near Shelburne, Ontario. The news sent shockwaves through the entertainment world, with tributes pouring in from fans, fellow artists, and actors who recognized his immense talent and enduring influence.

Louie Rankin’s legacy is multifaceted: a dancehall pioneer whose music moved generations, an actor who brought compelling characters to life on screen, and a “real Jamaican Don Dada” whose authenticity resonated deeply. His contributions to both dancehall and film continue to inspire new artists and entertainers, ensuring that the spirit of the Original Don Dada lives on. His memory serves as a powerful reminder of a life lived passionately, dedicated to the rhythm and the storytelling that made him a legend.