Timothy “Buc Wild” Joseph, the former Hot 97 radio host who co-starred on the legendary “Star & Buc Wild” show, has died at 47.
His longtime friend and former co-host, Star, announced Joseph’s death during a YouTube livestream Wednesday, Sept. 9. Star delivered an emotional, on-brand tribute while reflecting on their decades-long relationship.
“The passing of my son,” Star said. “Most of you knew him as my alleged half brother, but I raised him.”
Star said Joseph died Sunday at the Pink Houses apartment complex in Brooklyn, New York. He also mentioned fentanyl as a possible cause of death.
“Possible fentanyl,” Star said. “I don’t have a confirmation yet.”
Star made clear that Joseph was deeply loved despite the struggles he faced.
“Timothy Joseph, a.k.a. Buc Wild, was loved,” he said. “He had a support system.”
Hip-Hop’s Timothy “Buc Wild” Joseph, of Former Hot 97’s Star & Buc Wild Radio Show, Died At 47, Star Pays Tribute
Star also opened up about Joseph’s dyslexia, saying the learning disability shaped their relationship. The radio veteran recalled helping Joseph improve his reading skills while they worked together at Hot 97.
“We were working with flash cards at Hot 97,” Star recalled.
The pair even created a recurring segment called “Buc Wild’s Lottery Numbers.” Joseph would attempt to read lottery numbers on air, sometimes using outdated numbers.
“It was a way to make him feel confident, comfortable, and not to feel that we were trying to clown him,” Star said.
Star also thanked Hot 97 colleagues Tracy Claudy and Judy Ellis for supporting Joseph.
The former co-host said he stayed connected with Joseph’s family and close friends, particularly when Joseph became difficult to reach.
Star described their bond as “a very unique relationship,” marked by arguments and decades of friendship.
“He was a likable guy,” Star said.
Fans quickly mourned Joseph online. One listener called him a “Legend,” while others shared memories of listening to Star and Buc Wild for years.
Star ended the livestream by acknowledging he had much more to say about his longtime friend.
“There’s so much to say here,” he said.
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