Gay ‘Man of the Year’ star Dirk Shafer dies aged 52
Former actor and Playgirl cover star Dirk Shafer has died, aged 52.
Mr Shafer was found dead in his car in West Hollywood on Thursday.
The model – who was Playgirl’s Man of the Year in 1992 – came to prominence when he came out as gay in the mid-90s, before directing a film based on his journey in 1995.
The mockumentary ‘Man of the Year’ features Shafer as a fictional version of himself, struggling to reconcile his sex symbol status with his identity as a gay man.
The cause of death is not known, but according to the coroner’s office foul play is not suspected. Mr Shafer has more recently been working as a fitness trainer.
Will & Grace star Eric McCormack wrote: “Lost a good man today. #DirkShafer dear pal and awesome trainer for 17 years. Sending love to his family and so many friends. Be at peace, D.”
