It's a sad day for mankind today, because a great hero has passed.

Mr. T died last night in his sleep of unknown causes at the age of 58.

Best known for his portrayal of "B.A." Baracus of the television show, the A-Team. He was involved in professional wrestling for a number of years, taking part in the first two WrestleMania events, going up against, and ending the reign of terror of the villainous Rowdy Roddy Piper. He also starred alongside Sylvester Stallone and Carl Weathers as Clubber Lang in Rocky III.

Mr. T was born Laurence Tureaud on May 21, 1952 in the rough south side of Chicago, and grew up in the housing projects. His father left when he was five, and his mother raised the family on $87 a month welfare in a three-room apartment.

Mr. T's brothers encouraged him to build up his body in order to get tough and survive in the rough area, essentially turning him into the badass that everybody would one day know him for. His mother was a religious woman, who had an extremely strong influence on him. He's been noted saying "Any man who don't love his mama ain't no friend of mine."

Mr. T was an inspiration to all and will be missed. He was a true role model and an icon, and my prayers are with his family.