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Former MTV Host Sam Sarpong Dies Of Apparent Suicide

PASADENA, CA (AP) — London-born model and TV actor Sam Sarpong has died in Southern California after jumping to his death from a bridge.

Sarpong, who was 40, died Monday afternoon in Pasadena, where he lived.

The Los Angeles County coroner's office says the case is being investigated as a possible suicide. But the official cause of death must await results of toxicology testing.

Pasadena police say a 40-year-old man jumped from the Colorado Street Bridge following seven hours of attempts to talk him down.

Sarpong also modeled for Tommy Hilfiger and other fashion brands. He had a series of small roles in movies and TV shows, including "Bones" and "Boston Public" and co-hosted MTV's 2006 show, "Yo Momma."

Wilmer Valderrama, co-host and executive producer of MTV's "Yo Momma" released a statement through Facebook:

I am so sad & so confused.. Sam did it all, believed in dreaming bigger than anyone around him.. We made memories...

Posted by Wilmer Valderrama on Wednesday, October 28, 2015

Sarpong is survived by his father and his sister June Sarpong, an English TV presenter.

TM and © Copyright 2015 CBS Radio Inc. and its relevant subsidiaries. CBS RADIO and EYE Logo TM and Copyright 2015 CBS Broadcasting Inc. Used under license. All Rights Reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. The Associated Press contributed to this report.

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