Rick Genest death: 'Zombie Boy' dies aged 32 as Lady Gaga leads tributes to tattooed model

Rick Genest, also known as 'Zombie Boy', has died aged 32

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Sean Morrison @seanmorrison_3 August 2018

The world-famous Canadian model Rick Genest, known as Zombie Boy, has died aged 32 in an apparent suicide.

The heavily-tattooed star, who appeared in Lady Gaga’s music video Born This Way in 2011, was found at his apartment in Montreal on Wednesday.

In a heartbreaking tweet on Thursday, Gaga said his death is “beyond devastating” and called for improved awareness around mental health.

Alongside black and white pictures of the pair together, Lady Gaga said: "The suicide of friend Rick Genest, Zombie Boy is beyond devastating.

'Zombie Boy' Rick Genest dies aged 32

"We have to work harder to change the culture, bring Mental Health to the forefront and erase the stigma that we can't talk about it. If you are suffering, call a friend or family today. We must save each other."

Gaga, 32, real name Stefani Germanotta, added: "Reach out if you're in pain, and if you know someone who is, reach out to them too."

She also pledged to raise awareness for mental health issues, saying: "Kindness and mental health aren't one time practices. They aren't just to do list items. This fall, in partnership with @btwfoundation, I'll explore the power of habits to build cultures of kindness and wellness."