Combat Jack is dead at 48

The former hip-hop attorney and executive lost his battle to colon cancer

Dec 20, 2017

Famed hip-hop attorney and executive Reggie “Combat Jack” Ossé is dead at 48.

Hot 97’s Peter Rosenberg, a friend of Combat Jack, confirmed his death on Twitter.

“Hip Hop has lost one of its most important historians and voices… we had serious ups and downs but I was so happy we had made things good… Rest In Peace to my friend Combat Jack….,” Rosenberg tweeted.

Jack, who hosted The Combat Jack Show on podcast, had been battling colon cancer. He announced his diagnosis in October.

On his show, he profiled and interviewed leaders in hip-hop, but it was work as an entertainment lawyer that made him a respected and well-known force in the culture. Jack represented the likes of JAY-Z and Damon Dash.

What’s more, he impressively worked his way up the corporate chain as a legal affairs intern at Def Jam Recordings.

Many within the hip-hop community turned to social media to react to Combat Jack’s death.

See the overwhelming reactions below.

Hip Hop has lost one of its most important historians and voices… we had serious ups and downs but I was so happy we had made things good… Rest In Peace to my friend Combat Jack….

— Peter Rosenberg (@Rosenbergradio) December 20, 2017

Jack has brilliant, beautiful kids. thinking of them, and his whole family. may he rest in everlasting peace. https://t.co/PxzuIdktNM

— Danyel Smith (@danamo) December 20, 2017

reggie osse was one of the smartest and most helpful ppl i met in this game. he was my listener and i was his. and i hate to know he’s gone. r.i.p., @combat_jack.

— El Flaco (@bomani_jones) December 20, 2017

Heartbreaking. RIP Reggie “Combat Jack” Osse. Great man, storyteller and leader. Your contributions to hip hop will never ever be forgotten. Ultimate salute. pic.twitter.com/McK0F9TvYp

— Elliott Wilson (@ElliottWilson) December 20, 2017