Michael Willis Heard, the viral TikTok personality known for his “Yes King” catchphrase, died in early November 2025, with his death announced by his daughter on November 9. The family has not disclosed the official cause of death, though unverified claims about an asthma attack leading to cardiac arrest have circulated online. The loss devastated his community of followers, who had embraced his message of self-love and empowerment, which had become a cultural touchstone, particularly during the pandemic era.
Heard’s signature phrase evolved from a simple video clip into one of TikTok’s most recognisable sounds, transforming into a digital mantra of affirmation used by millions.
On November 9, 2025, Mykel Crumbie confirmed her father’s passing through an emotional Facebook post featuring throwback photographs of their time together. Her announcement directly addressed critics who had condemned her father’s lifestyle choices, fiercely defending his legacy and impact.
She wrote on Facebook;
My daddy man.. I’ma miss you so much king this is crazy to me and you really messing up the family with this one
IDC who didn’t love my father and didn’t like his lifestyle and WISHED DEATH ON HIM!
THIS WAS THE GREATEST MAN TO LIVE ON THIS EARTH!
The love and compassion he had is unmatched
My dad came to everyone with LOVE and touch soooo many lives !
I was a blessed girl so blessed to have him as MY DAD !
This is so hard for us as a family but this too shall pass and we will grow stronger .
I just know my dad is up in glory having an amazing time.
I love you daddy ima see you again dont worry about me.
While the family has not officially disclosed medical details, unverified claims about Heard’s cause of death spread rapidly online. YouTuber Davyon Augustus, who used the handle @Consciouztv on Instagram, claimed he received news that Heard died from an asthma attack that triggered a heart attack, ultimately leaving him brain-dead and in a coma before his passing. Augustus stated he had known Heard for years and suggested the photos Crumbie posted showed her father during his final hospitalisation.
Multiple reputable sources labelled these claims as speculation without official confirmation.
Who Was Michael Willis Heard?
Michael Willis Heard lived in Elyria, Ohio, and built his career as a spiritual guide before gaining internet fame. The 47-year-old worked as a life coach, spiritual mentor, community outreach counsellor, and former pastor, identifying counselling as his “greatest gift” during an appearance on the podcast “Kingz in Konversation.” His professional background centred on helping people overcome personal, emotional, and spiritual challenges through teachings on forgiveness, inner peace, resilience, and authenticity.
His content creation journey began with establishing himself across multiple platforms under the name “Love and Light TV.” On TikTok (@loveandlighttv), Instagram (38,000+ followers), and YouTube (11,000+ subscribers), he shared daily affirmations and spiritual reflections focused on self-love and empowerment. His soothing, deep voice delivered motivational advice on lifestyle, sexual wellness, and relationships, always combining humour with wisdom.
Heard is identified as pansexual and polyamorous, creating adult content on OnlyFans with men and living openly despite facing significant criticism. In his podcast interview, he revealed that his daughter encouraged him to “be himself,” which liberated him to live authentically rather than presenting different versions of himself in various contexts. He expressed aspirations to return to pastoral work with complete transparency and honesty, being “one person” across all aspects of his life.
The announcement of Heard’s death triggered an immediate outpouring of grief across social media platforms. Tributes flooded TikTok, Facebook, and X (formerly Twitter), with fans expressing disbelief and sadness while sharing clips of his most iconic moments. The hashtags #YesKing, #MichaelHeard, and #LoveYourself began trending as users posted videos using his signature audio as memorial tributes.
“Rest in peace Michael Willis Heard. You’ll always be the king,” wrote one fan. Another noted: “He made people feel proud of who they are. Rest easy, King.” Many described it as a devastating loss for the meme community, which had embraced him not just for entertainment but for genuine inspiration.
