Rock Music News: The Tragic Death Of School Of Rock Legend (2024)

To many, the name Kevin Alexander Clark might not sound familiar. However, to millions of comedy (or music) fans around the world, the name Freddy ‘Spazzy’ McGee will strike a chord. Freddy ‘Spazzy’ McGee was the talented drummer in the cult classic rock film, ‘School of Rock’, which was led by comedian Jack Black, who played a struggling guitarist and a helpless substitute teacher in an uptight high school. Although he didn’t have any prior acting experience, Kevin Clark’s musical […]

To many, the name Kevin Alexander Clark might not sound familiar. However, to millions of comedy (or music) fans around the world, the name Freddy ‘Spazzy’ McGee will strike a chord. Freddy ‘Spazzy’ McGee was the talented drummer in the cult classic rock film, ‘School of Rock’, which was led by comedian Jack Black, who played a struggling guitarist and a helpless substitute teacher in an uptight high school. Although he didn’t have any prior acting experience, Kevin Clark’s musical […]

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Jun 16, 2023 - 11:35
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The Tragic Death Of School Of Rock Legend

To many, the name Kevin Alexander Clark might not sound familiar. However, to millions of comedy (or music) fans around the world, the name Freddy ‘Spazzy’ McGee will strike a chord.

Freddy ‘Spazzy’ McGee was the talented drummer in the cult classic rock film, ‘School of Rock’, which was led by comedian Jack Black, who played a struggling guitarist and a helpless substitute teacher in an uptight high school.

Although he didn’t have any prior acting experience, Kevin Clark’s musical ability landed him a role in the film. Until recently, Clark continued to play the drums in his own band. That was until he tragically passed away in 2021.

Who Was Kevin Alexander Clark?

Kevin Alexander Clark was a talented young drummer and actor who catapulted to fame when he delivered an outstanding performance as Freddy ‘Spazzy’ McGee in the highly acclaimed film ‘School Of Rock’. This captivating film, widely considered one of the greatest comedy music movies ever made, was the springboard that launched Clark into the blinding glare of stardom.

Born on December 3, 1988, in the serene city of Highland Park, Illinois, and from a young age Clark displayed an extraordinary fascination and talent for drumming. As a young boy, he would often be found passionately beating out rhythms on any surface he could find.

This innate passion for drumming would eventually pave the way for his prominent role in the ‘School Of Rock,’ a movie that combined his two great loves – acting and music. His performance in the film not only showcased his acting prowess but also underlined his exceptional skills as a drummer. His unique talent allowed him to etch his own path and create a special place in the hearts of viewers worldwide.

Kevin Clark, Jack Black, and the cast of ‘School of Rock’.

How Did Kevin Alexander Clark Get His Role On ‘School Of Rock’?

Kevin Clark was just 12 years old when he was given the role of Freddy ‘Spazzy’ McGee on ‘School Of Rock’ despite having no prior acting experience. He was given the chance to play the role and work alongside Jack Black because of his musical talents.

Clark was a hugely talented drummer. His mother said that he started playing the drums when he was just 3 years old by “hitting pots and pans in the basement” and started receiving private lessons from the tender age of 5.

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What Did Clark Do After ‘School Of Rock’?

Kevin Clark was a man with a singular focus: music. Despite his role in ‘School Of Rock’ and the consequent fame it brought him, Clark never truly harbored dreams of becoming an actor. He relished his time filming and appreciated the opportunities it presented, but his heart always beat most passionately for music.

Unlike many of his co-stars from ‘School Of Rock’ who went on to chase and achieve considerable success in the acting sphere, Clark charted a different path. He chose to channel his energies into his true love, music, dedicating himself to it with unwavering determination.

In the two decades that followed the movie, Clark made substantial strides towards realizing his dream of a career in music. He established several bands, wrote his own songs, and even mentored children in music. His teaching role, in a way, mirrored Jack Black’s character in ‘School Of Rock’, making life imitate art.

Clark’s filmography ended with ‘School Of Rock’. He didn’t step in front of the camera again for another film. Instead, he spent his time playing music with a variety of bands, including Funk It Let’s Jam, Jess Bess, and the Robbie Gold Band, fully immersing himself in the world of music.

In the final chapter of his life, Clark formed his own band, Dreadwolf. Regrettably, the band’s debut performance came just days before his untimely death.

Kevin Alexander Clark

Kevin Clark’s Tragic Passing – What Happened?

In the early hours of May 26, 2021, Clark’s life was tragically cut short when he was struck by a car as he crossed a notorious intersection on the Northwest Side of Illinois.

Emergency medical services swiftly arrived on the scene upon receiving the call, finding Kevin on Logan Boulevard. Recognizing the severity of the situation, paramedics promptly transported him to Illinois Medical Center, desperately hoping for a positive outcome.

Sadly, despite the best efforts of medical professionals, Kevin Clark was pronounced dead at 2:04 am, leaving behind a legacy that would forever resonate in the hearts of those who knew and admired him.

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What Happened To The Driver?

The driver that hit Kevin Alexander Clark was just 20 years old at the time. She was never charged with an offense but was given several citations.

There has never been any concrete evidence released that states who was conclusively at fault for the accident, but various Chicago blogs have looked at the case in more detail.

Some suggest that the evidence points toward Clark being at fault for the accident as he shot a red light, while others have found evidence that suggests the driver may have been uninsured and guilty of running a red light in the past.

The accident was captured on police surveillance cameras but the footage hasn’t been released. Clark’s family believes several factors contributed to his death. They are currently investigating all of them. As of yet, the driver has faced no further punishment.

Respects Paid To A ‘School Of Rock’ Legend

In the days and weeks that followed Kevin Alexander Clark’s tragic death, his fellow cast mourned one of their own. Many of the cast went on to post their tributes to the ‘School Of Rock’ legend on their social media channels. 

Jack Black shared a post about Clark on social media saying “Devastating news,”. He went on to describe Clark as a “beautiful soul” before writing he was “heartbroken” and that Kevin is gone “way too soon”. 

Miranda Cosgrove also posted, writing that she was “stunned and saddened” by the news. Another cast member that led the tributes was Rivkah Reyes who eerily discussed how she only spoke to Clark the day before about him taking part in her podcast show.  She went on to write “I miss him so much”.

The official ‘School of Rock’ movie poster.

Final Thoughts

In the wake of Kevin Clark’s untimely passing, we reflect on the loss of a truly remarkable individual whose time with us was regrettably short. While he gained recognition for his role as Freddy ‘Spazzy’ McGee in the beloved film ‘School of Rock,’ Kevin Clark will be remembered not only for his on-screen talent but also for his kind-hearted nature, strong work ethic, and genuine love for music.

The ‘School of Rock’ fan community has been deeply affected by the news of Kevin Clark’s passing. His portrayal of the charming schoolboy with impressive drumming skills will forever hold a special place in our hearts.

As we bid farewell to Kevin Alexander Clark, let us cherish the moments we shared and the lasting impact he had on our lives. While his time among us was cut tragically short, his legacy will live on, inspiring future generations to pursue their passions and embrace the joy of music.

To get a glimpse into the life of the enigmatic Kevin Alexander Clark, check out the clip below by School of Rock, and don’t forget to check out the FAQs just after the video.

Frequently Asked Questions

Did Kevin Clark Actually Play In School Of Rock?

Yes, Kevin Clark did play the drums in School of Rock. In fact, all of the children in the film played the instruments and sang.

Did Kevin Clark Ever Reunite With Jack Black?

Yes, Kevin Clark did reunite with Jack Black. Clark met up with Black and the rest of the cast in 2013 to mark 10 years since the film was released. Clark also performed with Black in 2018.

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