Story highlights Kyle Jean-Baptiste made history as first African-American to play lead role in Broadway production of "Les Miserables"

He played the roles of the constable and Courfeyrac and was understudy for lead role of Jean Valjean

He was thrilled to make his debut as what Twitter dubbed #blackValjean on July 23

(CNN) Actor Kyle Jean-Baptiste, who made history as the first African-American to play the lead role in a Broadway production of "Les Miserables," died Friday night in New York.

Marc Thibodeau, a spokesman for the production, said Saturday that Jean-Baptiste fell from a fire escape.

"The entire Les Miserables family is shocked and devastated by the sudden and tragic loss of Kyle, a remarkable young talent and tremendous person who made magic -- and history -- in his Broadway debut," the production said in a statement. "We send our deepest condolences to his family and ask that you respect their privacy in this unimaginably difficult time."

The critically acclaimed "Les Miserables," now in its second year since returning to Broadway, was Jean-Baptiste's Broadway debut.

The 21-year-old played the roles of the constable and Courfeyrac and was also the understudy for the lead role of Jean Valjean -- what he called his "dream role."

Read More