AceShowbiz - Sheryl Underwood faced a heartbreaking loss over three decades ago when her husband Michael tragically died by suicide. His death resurfaced in public conversation in May 2026 after comedians at Netflix's The Roast of Kevin Hart made controversial jokes referencing the tragedy.

During the roast, comedian Tony Hinchcliffe made a remark about the length of Sheryl’s marriage to Michael, joking about how long he lasted before his death. Despite the sensitive nature of the joke, Sheryl Underwood was observed laughing it off on stage. Host Shane Gillis also commented on the tragedy with a series of dark jokes that referenced Michael’s death by jumping off a bridge.

Afterwards, Shane expressed remorse for his remarks, admitting he felt terrible and reached out to Sheryl Underwood to apologize. She reportedly responded with humor, showing resilience despite the painful subject.

Regarding the details of Sheryl Underwood’s husband, his first name was Michael, according to People magazine. She has chosen to keep most of his identity private, but it is publicly known that he worked as a chef.

Sheryl Underwood and Michael were married in 1987 and remained together for roughly three years until his death. The end of their marriage was marked by his suicide, a tragic event that Underwood has spoken about with candor in interviews.

In a 2016 interview, Sheryl Underwood shared a poignant memory from the day Michael died. She recalled making him a German chocolate cake that morning and asking him to drop the bills in the mailbox, never imagining it would be the last time she saw him alive. This moment has stayed deeply with her as one of the most painful experiences.

Despite the trauma, Sheryl Underwood has expressed that the hardships she endured have ultimately made her stronger. She emphasized that while the pain is unforgettable, the lessons learned from such tragedy can help others facing similar struggles. She has insisted she would not change anything in her life because of the personal growth it brought.

The topic of suicide is a serious and sensitive one. If you or someone you know is struggling with emotional distress or suicidal thoughts, it is crucial to seek help. The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline can be reached at 1-800-273-TALK (8255) and provides vital support.

This article is based on reporting originally published by HollywoodLife.