What is Alveolar rhabdomyosarcoma? Comedian Alex Duong dies of ‘rare and aggressive’ cancer; all you need to know

Comedian and actor Alex Duong has died at the age of 42 after a year-long bout with cancer, as reported by TMZ. Hilarie Steele, a very close friend of the family, was present at the time of his death. Alex went into septic shock Friday night (March 27, 2026) and passed away at 11 AM Saturday (March 28, 2026) at St. John's Hospital in Santa Monica, California, surrounded by family and friends, Steele told the outlet.

In 2025, Alex, who appeared on "Jeff Ross Presents Roast Battle" and "Blue Bloods," was diagnosed with alveolar rhabdomyosarcoma, a rare and aggressive cancer, after experiencing headaches behind his eye, according to TMZ.

A biopsy was performed, and the tumor was labeled as extremely aggressive. The comedian Alex ended up with an eyepatch and rounds of treatment. A GoFundMe, set up by Hilarie, was created to help Alex's journey to regain sight.

What is Alveolar rhabdomyosarcoma?

Rhabdomyosarcoma is a rare soft tissue cancer that typically affects children and teenagers but can also affect adults, according to US-based medical center Cleveland Clinic. It can develop anywhere in the body, but it usually affects muscles in your arms, legs, head and neck, and abdomen (belly), according to the Cleveland Clinic website.

Alveolar rhabdomyosarcoma is a type of condition that affects older children, teenagers, and young adults between the ages of 20 and 35. According to Cleveland Clinic, it typically develops in arms, legs, or trunk (torso). Alveolar rhabdomyosarcoma is aggressive and spreads quickly soon after it develops.

(Disclaimer: The article is for general information or educational purposes only, and is not a medical advice. Please consult your doctor as this is not a substitute for professional help.)