The True Blood actor died due to heart failure.
Ellis became a True Blood fan-favorite for his portrayal of a gay short order cook at the fictional Louisiana town of Merlotte's Bar.The character didn't survive the books, but Ellis' portrayal of Lafayette kept him in the series.
Ellis won the Satellite Award in 2008 for his role in True Blood.The rest of the cast won the Satellite Award in 2009.Ellis won the "Brink of Fame" award for up-and-coming actors at the NewNowNext Awards.
The company said it was sad to hear of the death of Ellis.With the overall legacy of True Blood, Nesan's portrayal of Lafayette will be remembered fondly.Nelsan will be missed by his fans and all of us.
Ellis was praised for breaking stereotypes of gay men.Ellis said in a 2010 interview that the character was likable.
He said that he liked that dude and was watching himself criticize himself.The most intriguing thing about him is his strength.Lafayette doesn't do much if you watch him.Unless he gets heated, he is not quick on his toes.I never intended for him to be that way, but he is.It just happened.
Ellis joined the cast of Elementary in which he played a former drug dealer and patient of Lucy Liu.Ellis had roles in several films.He played Margin Luther King, Jr. in Lee Daniels's film.