American rapper Wiz Khalifa has shared the heartbreaking news that his father, Laurence W. Thomaz, has died at the age of 63, leaving fans and the music community in mourning. The announcement was made by Wiz Khalifa himself on social media, where he offered a deeply personal tribute to his father and reflected on the impact he had on his life and career. The news has prompted an outpouring of sympathy from fans and colleagues across the industry, highlighting not only the influence of Laurence Thomaz on his son’s rise to fame but also the universal human experience of loss.
Laurence W. Thomaz passed away on February 14, 2026, in what was described as a sudden but peaceful departure. Wiz Khalifa, whose real name is Cameron Jibril Thomaz, took to X (formerly Twitter) to share the news with his millions of followers. In his post, the rapper wrote, “Today my father decided not to wake up. I will always love him, miss him and be grateful for the things he taught me. He went out like a true yogi, at peace and on his own time. I love you forever Laurence W. Thomaz.”
A father’s influence on a superstar
In his tribute, Wiz Khalifa emphasised the profound influence his father had on his early life. Laurence Thomaz served in the United States Air Force and was married to Wiz Khalifa’s mother, Peachie Wimbush, during the rapper’s early childhood. Although the couple divorced when Wiz Khalifa was very young, Laurence remained a significant figure in his life.
One of the most notable roles Laurence played was helping to nurture his son’s musical ambitions. He reportedly opened a recording studio in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, where Wiz Khalifa spent much of his formative years exploring his interest in music. The young Cameron used the studio to experiment with lyrics, rhythm, and production experiences that laid the foundation for his future success in hip hop and rap. Wiz later credited this early exposure as instrumental to his career, noting that the environment his father created allowed him to grow as an artist.
The rapper also shared that his last conversation with his father before his passing was uplifting. Laurence had expressed pride in his son’s recent acting role, telling Wiz Khalifa how proud he was of him. The rapper said he had promised his father that he would continue to pursue further achievements in his craft. This memory now holds even greater emotional weight for the artist and his family.
Community and fan reactions
Following the announcement, fans and fellow artists offered condolences and support on social media. Messages of sympathy poured in from around the world, with many acknowledging the impact Laurence had not only on his son but also on the broader music community. The response underscores the deep connection fans feel with Wiz Khalifa as an artist and the personal stories he shares beyond his music.
Many fans also expressed appreciation for Wiz Khalifa’s openness during this difficult time, noting that public figures sharing real moments of grief can help humanise larger than life personas and bring comfort to others who have experienced similar loss.
Legacy and personal reflections
Laurence W. Thomaz’s legacy now stands as part of the narrative of one of hip hop’s most recognisable stars. In addition to supporting his son’s musical beginnings, he influenced the artist’s understanding of resilience, creativity, and family. Wiz Khalifa’s public tribute described his father as someone who left a positive impact on this earth, noting that seeing how many people respected and loved him brought a measure of peace despite his passing.
Beyond his influence on music, Laurence’s life as a father remains central to the story. Wiz Khalifa, now 38, also reflected publicly on the importance of fatherhood in his own life, especially after welcoming his daughter Kaydence in 2024 with his partner Aimee Aguilar and raising his son Sebastian, 12, with his ex wife Amber Rose. In past interviews, the rapper has spoken about how becoming a father reshaped his sense of purpose, something he credited in part to the example set by his own dad.
The passing of Laurence W. Thomaz is a significant moment for Wiz Khalifa, marking the loss of a beloved parent and mentor who played a foundational role in his life and career. Through heartfelt tributes and shared memories, the rapper has honoured his father’s legacy and shown his profound gratitude for the lessons and love he received.
Wiz Khalifa’s emotional announcement and tribute serve as a poignant reminder of the enduring impact of family, the importance of remembering those who shaped us, and the shared human experience of love, loss, and remembrance.