Charlotte Mourns as TikTok Star Malik Taylor Dies at 28

Charlotte Mourns as TikTok Star Malik Taylor Dies at 28

Charlotte, North Carolina — The vibrant social media star Malik Taylor, known online as The Unpopular Party, has tragically passed away at the age of 28. The news was confirmed by his fraternity, Alpha Kappa Psi — Zeta Phi chapter at Austin Peay State University. They shared on August 20 that “our beloved Brother, Malik Taylor, has gone to ‘Audit Eternal’,” emphasizing that he brought laughter, joy and warmth to every room he entered. They added that though his time was short, his legacy of unity, compassion and brotherhood will live on.

Before his unexpected death, Taylor had celebrated his relocation from Memphis, Tennessee, to Charlotte in a TikTok video posted on August 19. He joked, “Because I heard the Queen City needed a king. The Queen City needed a king.”

Although the exact cause of death remains unconfirmed, multiple outlets report he died in a car accident in Charlotte.

Taylor first found success as a content creator after leaving his teaching career in Memphis in 2023. He built a strong following through witty pop-culture commentary and POV-style comedy content. By the time of his passing, he had garnered over 250,000 followers across TikTok and Instagram and maintained a YouTube channel called The Unpopular Party.

He marked his 28th birthday on July 2 with a celebratory Instagram post in which he referenced having “survived the 27 Club (Barely),” arriving in style as “Malik Gatsby” and toasting to the rest of his “roaring 20s.”

Fans and fellow creators have taken to social media platforms such as TikTok, X and Instagram to express grief and disbelief. Many noted the suddenness of the loss, pointing out that Taylor had just posted content shortly before news of his death broke.

Taylor’s cousin, Kendall Holloway, also confirmed the car accident, praising him as “one of the best social media influencers” and calling for a moment of silence to honor his life.

In the fraternity’s announcement, they offered a heartfelt reflection of his spirit. They said that Taylor embodied values of brotherhood, unity and compassion and that though he was gone too soon, “the ‘Great Auditor’ will reward you for your everlasting work.”

Malik Taylor’s sudden passing has left the digital community in mourning. His unique voice, infectious humor and inspiring presence will not be forgotten.