DMX, Grammy-Nominated Rapper, Actor, Dead At 50: Reports

WHITE PLAINS, NY — Rapper DMX, known for his songs “Ruff Ryders’ Anthem” and “Party Up (Up in Here)," died Friday, according to multiple reports. He was 50.

DMX, whose real name was Earl Simmons, died after suffering “catastrophic cardiac arrest,” according to the hospital in White Plains, New York, where he died.

A statement from relatives said he died "with his family by his side after being placed on life support for the past few days," The Associated Press reported.

"Earl was a warrior who fought till the very end," the statement read. "He loved his family with all of his heart and we cherish the times we spent with him. Earl's music inspired countless fans across the world and his iconic legacy will live on forever. We appreciate all of the love and support during this incredibly difficult time."

DMX, who was born in Mount Vernon, New York, started rapping in the early 1990s. His debut album, "It's Dark and Hell Is Hot," was released in 1998.

The multiplatinum-selling album was anchored by several hits including “Ruff Ryders’ Anthem,” “Get At Me Dog,” “Stop Being Greedy” and “How It’s Goin’ Down.”

Along with his musical career, DMX was an actor, starring in the 1998 film “Belly” and in 2000′s “Romeo Must Die” with Jet Li and Aaliyah. DMX and Aaliyah teamed up for “Come Back in One Piece” on the film’s soundtrack, according to The Associated Press.

DMX was taken to the hospital April 2 after overdosing on drugs at his home, according to reports by TMZ and Variety. Sources told TMZ he had some brain activity, while others said he was in a vegetative state.

The rapper had struggled with addiction since he was a teenager, according to The Associated Press; however, his lawyer, Murray Richman, did not confirm the reports DMX overdosed.

RELATED: Rapper DMX Hospitalized After Drug Overdose: Reports

The Associated Press contributed to this report.