Reggie Watts, the former bandleader on “The Late Late Show With James Corden,” is mourning the sudden death of his longtime partner, event producer Katherine Early McCollough.
On April 1, 2026, Watts — who was an integral part of Corden’s late-night talk show on CBS from 2015 to 2023 — shared a lengthy and heartbreaking tribute to McCollough, writing, “Katherine, I will miss you so much. I know you were in pain, and while I tried everything I could to reflect the light you brought into this world, the world became too much to overcome.”
Reggie Watts Says Girlfriend’s Death is ‘So Difficult for Those of Us Left Behind’
Watts, 54, directed his message directly to McCollough, writing, “You changed my life. You opened up my vulnerability and taught me how to receive love from someone so close.”
The renowned musician, who’s currently on a music-and-comedy world tour with dates in California on April 2 and 4, continued, “We built a life together, went on adventures, and we took chances together. You had a natural radiance that people could feel from so far away â a light you carried despite the difficult path you walked from childhood. I’ve been processing so much. I know you can hear me, and I honor the intentionality of your journey. You planned your time in Lima beautifully â the coast, the art, the meals shared with a friend. While it is so difficult for those of us left behind, I understand your need for peace.”
A GoFundMe campaign set up by friends of McCullough, which had already raised $27,000 by April 2, told supporters, “Kat’s family is now in the difficult place of dealing with her loss both emotionally and practically. Her remains must be shipped internationally, which apparently is incredibly expensive.”
Stars Rallying Around Reggie Watts as He Grieves
Many stars have rallied around Watts as he grieves McCollough’s death, including actress Annette Bening, who donated $2,000 to the GoFundMe campaign, and others who left notes of sympathy on his social media post.
“Saturday Night Live” star Kenan Thompson wrote, “So sorry bro!!! Love you!!! ðð¾ðð¾ðð¾”
Fellow music star Imogen Heap wrote, “Woah, Reggie. Love you so much. This is awful. I canât even imagine what youâre going through. Please reach out anytime. Come stay, play with sounds. Would love to see you. Here for you x”
Comedian Sarah Silverman chimed in, “I love you, Brother.”
If you or someone you know is having suicidal thoughts, dial 988 to reach the toll-free Suicide & Crisis Lifeline. Itâs available 24 hours a day, seven days a week (dial 888-628-9454 for assistance in Spanish). You can also speak with a trained crisis counselor anytime by texting HOME to 741741 to reach the Crisis Text Line.
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