David A. Arnold, Standup Comedian and Showrunner, Dies at 54
William Earl David A. Arnold, a comedian and showrunner known for his standup work and as creator and showrunner of Nickelodeon’s “That Girl Lay Lay,” died unexpectedly on Wednesday. He was 54. “It is with great sadness that we confirm the untimely passing of our husband, father, brother and friend, David A. Arnold,” Arnold’s family said in a statement. “David passed away peacefully today in his home and doctors have ruled the cause of death due to natural causes. Please keep our family in prayer and respect our privacy at this time as we are all shocked and devasted by this loss.” Arnold’s death came as a surprise to industry insiders. He was affiliated with Kevin Hart, who produced Arnold’s second Netflix standup special, “It Ain’t for the Weak,” which debuted in July. The special revolves around routines focusing on Arnold’s family life as well as marital spats and entitled kids. It followed his Netflix standup debut in 2019 with “Fat Ballerina.” Arnold was featured as part of the Netflix Is a Joke comedy festival in late April and early May.