Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania – February 14, 2026 — American rapper and songwriter Wiz Khalifa (real name Cameron Jibril Thomaz) has announced the death of his father, Laurence W. Thomaz. The artist shared the news publicly on his verified X account in a brief but deeply emotional post early Friday morning.
In the message, Wiz Khalifa wrote:
“My dad, Laurence W. Thomaz, has passed away. Rest in peace pops. I love you forever. Thank you for everything. Fly high 🕊️”
The post, which included a black-and-white childhood photo of the rapper with his father, quickly garnered thousands of likes, retweets, and condolence messages from fans, fellow artists, and celebrities within minutes of being published.
Laurence W. Thomaz was a U.S. Air Force veteran and the biological father of Cameron Thomaz. Wiz Khalifa has spoken publicly in interviews over the years about his complicated but ultimately loving relationship with both parents. His father and mother separated when he was young, and he spent portions of his childhood moving between different cities due to his parents’ respective careers and life circumstances. Despite the early separation, Wiz Khalifa maintained contact with his father and occasionally referenced him in songs and interviews as an important influence.
In a 2016 interview with The Breakfast Club, the rapper described his father as “a military man” who instilled discipline and a strong work ethic in him, even if their relationship was not always close during his teenage years. He has also credited both parents with supporting his early interest in music, even when it was not the most conventional path.
Wiz Khalifa’s mother, Peggy Thomaz, a former U.S. Air Force servicewoman, has also been a recurring figure in his life story and music. The rapper has often highlighted the strength and independence he inherited from both sides of his family.
The news of Laurence Thomaz’s passing comes less than two years after Wiz Khalifa lost his maternal grandmother, who was also a significant figure in his life and frequently mentioned in his lyrics and social media posts.
As of Friday afternoon, Wiz Khalifa had not released any further details regarding the cause of death, funeral arrangements, or memorial plans. Close associates of the artist have asked for privacy during this difficult time, stating that the family is grieving privately while appreciating the outpouring of love and support from fans worldwide.
Tributes have already begun pouring in from across the music industry:
Snoop Dogg posted: “Love to you and the family, nephew. Rest easy to your pops. Sending strength and prayers.”
Juicy J wrote: “Damn bro… sending love to you and your family. RIP to your dad.”
Ty Dolla $ign shared: “We love you Wiz. Rest in peace to your pops. Heaven gained another angel.”
Rihanna commented simply: “❤️ Sending love and light to you and your family.”
Fans have flooded Wiz Khalifa’s post with messages of condolence, sharing memories of how his music—particularly tracks like “See You Again” (his 2015 tribute to Paul Walker that became a global phenomenon)—helped them through personal losses. Many noted the emotional weight of the rapper now experiencing the same kind of grief he has helped others navigate through his lyrics.
Wiz Khalifa has remained one of the most consistent and commercially successful figures in hip-hop since breaking through with his 2010 single “Black and Yellow.” He has released multiple platinum albums, collaborated with artists across genres, built a successful cannabis brand (Khalifa Kush), and maintained a reputation as a devoted father to his two children, Sebastian and Iman.
The artist has not indicated whether he plans to take time away from upcoming projects or performances. His most recent album, Star Power (2024), and ongoing work with his Taylor Gang label suggest he remains active in music.
At this time, no public funeral or memorial service details have been released. The Thomaz family has asked for privacy and respect during their time of mourning.
Wiz Khalifa’s announcement has served as a somber reminder of the universal experience of loss—even for those who appear to live larger-than-life public lives. Fans and peers have rallied around the rapper, offering messages of support and solidarity as he grieves the loss of his father.
