Ronnie Benjamin, better known to Howard Stern listeners as Big Black, has died at the age of 64.
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The news was reported by Page Six and confirmed by the New York City Medical Examiner's Office, which said arteriosclerotic cardiovascular disease was the cause of death. However, it is unknown when and where Benjamin died.
Ronnie Benjamin Was a Member of the Wack Pack
Benjamin was born in the Bronx, New York. He often appeared on the Stern show with Lawrence Coward and bantered with sidekick Robin Quivers. He joined the radio host's Wack Pack in 2006 after multiple appearances on the show.
Benjamin was also a Mensa member, a non-profit society for those with a high IQ. Even so, he had fallen on hard times.
After 2006, Benjamin didn't appear on the Stern show for five years. During that time, he told the host that he had "been hanging in my bunker in the South Bronx." He added that he briefly worked security at Yankee Stadium but was fired and was collecting unemployment. He had been making videos on YouTube to "publicize" himself.
Several Howard Stern Fans and Staffers Paid Tribute to Benjamin
As news of Benjamin's death became known, many Stern fans paid tribute to the Wack Pack member.
"RIP Big Black," a fan wrote on X. "One of the best to ever do it. Too bad Howard sold out."
"I didn't even listen to Howie but I knew of Big Black," another fan added. "He was a great participant in the DV and he will be sorely missed."
Former Stern writer Benjy Bronk wrote that he "didn't know Big Black well beyond interactions for the show." Still, he remembered his "kind and friendly" demeanor and was "proud (deservedly so) of his intellect/education."
Bronk also mentioned that, in addition to being a member of Mensa, Benjamin "went to the Bronx High School of Science (basically one of the most prestigious high schools in the country). I think he also went to Columbia University. Most importantly, a good hearted person."
