John Crawley, known to millions as KingBeard X, lost his life at 47 after a courageous two-week ICU battle

20 August 2025

John Crawley./ Facebook

John Crawley better known across TikTok and Instagram as KingBeard X drew in more than 3.5 million followers with his half‑cheeked smile, fluffy beard, and particularly his perfectly pitched reactions to food videos. On August 18, 2025, his unexpected death at age 47 from cardiac arrest ended a chapter filled with laughter, light, and a powerful reminder of the human souls behind the screens.

Earlier that month, Crawley had checked into North Mississippi Medical Center in Tupelo after experiencing serious breathing difficulties. His condition escalated rapidly; doctors admitted him into the ICU, placed him on a ventilator, and inserted a chest tube as his oxygen levels fluctuated dangerously. Despite medical intervention and fleeting moments of hope where he was briefly awake and responsive his body ultimately failed him. The final cause of death, confirmed by funeral director Paul Lazenby, was cardiac arrest.

In an industry and culture that often glamorizes viral success, Crawley’s absence leaves a striking void. He became something of a TikTok luminary with his widely shared video dissecting the “incorrect” way to eat a cinnamon roll a clip that earned over 5.6 million likes and a permanent nickname, “cinnamon roll guy.” Audiences adored his straight-faced delivery, sarcasm, and the uncanny ability to mirror their own kitchen-cringe moments. Followers weren’t just entertained they felt seen.

Behind this public persona lay a man known and loved by his close friends and family. Anthony Caruso, a podcast co-host and longtime friend, launched a GoFundMe campaign to support Crawley’s mounting medical bills. Crawley, as Caruso highlighted, did not have health insurance and was the main provider for his family. After his passing, Caruso updated the campaign to fund funeral costs and to provide for Crawley's mother. As of today, the fundraiser has reached over $2,400, moving toward a modest goal of $9,000.

Fans poured out their grief and affection online. On the obituary page hosted by Glenfield Funeral Home, comments ranged from whimsical tributes “May you be eating cinnamon rolls in heaven” to heartfelt acknowledgments of Crawley’s role in brightening the darkest days of many. His legacy lives on in the everyday users he made laugh and inspired.

Beyond the memes and the giggles, Crawley’s story echoes deeper realities: the perils of uncompensated labor, the fragility of health without insurance, the weight of being both creative soul and breadwinner. His passing isn’t just a loss for the digital stage it’s a reminder that even those who make us laugh may be fighting unseen battles.

As the TikTok community grieves, they honor him by remembering the joy he shared, the fun he fostered, and the simple humanity he always kept front and center.