Darius Rucker Mourns The Devastating Loss Of His “Brother” & “Best Friend”
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Darius Rucker’s Bodyguard Dies At 66
Darius Rucker is mourning the heartbreaking loss of his longtime friend and bodyguard this week.
Eugene “Buddy” Wright, who spent years working as Darius and Hootie & the Blowfish’s longtime bodyguard, has died. He was 66.
“Buddy was my friend, my brother, my bodyguard, my best friend, and when I needed him to be, my therapist,” Darius wrote on social media. “I love you Buddy. Thank you for changing my life.”
Buddy has protected Darius from unruly fans on many occassions, including the time in 2011 when he tackled a man who was attempting to charge the country star:
Buddy’s Life & Legacy Remembered
Fans and fellow singers flooded Darius’s social media with heartfelt tributes to Buddy, sharing fond memories and remembering the impact his warm personality had on those around him.
“We met him after a show when you were on the road with Rascal Flatts 12+ years ago. He was professional, kind and respectful. You could tell he always had your best interest at heart. Praying for you and all of his loved ones,” one fan wrote.
“Man. Buddy was one of the best men I’ve ever met. Truly made everyone feel like they were the most important in the room. 1 of 1. Prayin for you guys,” Shay of Dan + Shay commented.
Buddy’s son wrote a beautiful post in memory of his life and legacy. You can read that below.
