It takes a huge personality to bring the lives of millions to a standstill. And the passing of veteran NASCAR driver Kyle Busch has just done that. 

"Rowdy," as he came to be known in the NASCAR world, passed away on Thursday, 21st May. He was hospitalized just hours before the untimely passing, citing "severe illness" in a statement put out by his family. 

Busch leaves behind a legacy in the sport with 234 national series wins across multiple series, such as the NASCAR Truck Series, O’Reilly Auto Parts Series, and the Cup Series. He also holds the record for 19 consecutive seasons with at least one win.

His latest win came at the Dover Motor Speedway in the Truck Series. He won the Ecosave 200 a week ago. It also marked his 69th win in the truck series, extending his record for most wins in the series. 

After the news of his death broke out, several American celebrities, along with other personalities, reacted to the shocking news.

Tributes Pour In From Across America After Kyle Busch's Death

Many took to their social media accounts to share their condolences. TV anchor and presenter Sage Steel, the host of "Sage Steel Show," wrote on X, "This is shocking.  I’m so so sorry to hear this."

Busch was a huge fan of WWE and made constant celebrity appearances in the sport. WWE legend Rick Flair reacted to the sad news, writing, "I’m Saddened To Hear About The Passing Of My Friend- 2-Time NASCAR Champion @KyleBusch. Gone Way Too Soon! Rest In Peace Kyle!"

The Cincinnati Reds baseball team penned down a heartfelt tribute while also writing down about the time they spent together.

"We are saddened to learn of the passing of NASCAR legend Kyle Busch. We were fortunate to spend time with him at our complex in Arizona. Our deepest condolences go out to his family, friends, fans and the entire racing community," the statement on X read.

Old Sports News uploaded a clip of Rowdy’s last Truck Series win from last Friday. In the clip, he relishes the victory and says, "You never know when the last one is." Jack Posobiec, a political activist, commented on the post with just one word, "Man". 

Larry the Cable Guy, an American comedian, also reacted to the news. Reposting a post by NASCAR reporter Jeff Gluck, he wrote, "Oh my so horrible! RIP Kyle. Unbelievable.”

Kyle Busch leaves behind not just his accolades from the past two decades in the sport, but also a lot of memories and inspiration for the future generations of racers entering the sport. 

He is survived by his wife, Samantha, and two children, 11-year-old Brexton and 4-year-old Lennix.

You can read more on the Daytona Racing Digest!

Written by

Chionia Libania Colaco

Edited by

Yask Kotak