LOS ANGELES — Performer Tim Kruger has passed at the age of 44.
According to a statement posted on social media and the official blog for his website, TimTales.com, Kruger died from a "tragic, yet simple accident at home."
The statement was not attributed to anyone by name, though it referred to Kruger as the writer's "sweet, caring partner of over 20 years," which means it was written by his longtime partner, Grobes Geraet.
Kruger founded TimTales with Geraet in 2009, just three years after appearing in his first adult film, and the site quickly took off.
TimTales was named Gay Site of the Year at the 2023 XBIZ Europa Awards, and Kruger was later nominated for Gay Performer of the Year at the 2024 XBIZ Europa Awards.
"It is with the heaviest of hearts that I have to share the news of the passing of our beloved Marcel, the man you all knew and loved as Tim Kruger," wrote Geraet. "To the public, he was the ultimate ginger porn star; to me, he was a sweet, caring partner of over 20 years. He was also my best friend. He touched the lives of everyone who had the privilege of knowing him."
The statement made clear that drugs were not involved in Kruger's death, nor did he take his own life.
"I am very aware of the stigma that surrounds deaths in the porn industry, so let me make this very clear to hopefully cut down on the inevitable speculation: Tim’s death was a tragic, yet simple accident at home. There were no drugs involved, nor was there any indication of foul play or suicide," wrote Geraet.
"Though my heart is broken into pieces, I find solace in the countless memories he gifted us. And I know that he died knowing he was loved. Tim’s legacy of compassion, love, and joy will live on in all who knew him."
Geraet ended the statement by asking for privacy as he mourns the loss of his beloved partner.
"I am aware that you all will have countless questions, but this is all the information I have to share right now. I would love for everyone to respect his loved ones' time to grieve in privacy. Thank you."
Tributes from throughout the industry quickly poured in across social media.
"Rest in peace, Legend," Derek Kage wrote on X.com.
Dominic Ford also offered his condolences.
"My thoughts go out to Tim, Jurgan, and their family," he wrote. "What a tragic loss of a terrific man. May his legacy live on forever."
Trenton Ducati paid tribute to Kruger as well.
"Go fly high with the angels my friend," wrote Ducati. "We will never forget your kind spirit and legendary performances."
XBIZ will update this story as more information becomes available.
