LUDACRIS - LUDACRIS ASKS FOR PRIVACY AFTER DAD'S DEATH

LUDACRIS ASKS FOR PRIVACY AFTER DAD'S DEATH

LATEST: Rapper LUDACRIS has asked fans for privacy to grieve following the death of his father on Sunday (25FEB07). WAYNE BRIAN BRIDGES, 52, died in an Atlanta, Georgia hospital after a long illness. Ludacris - real name CHRIS BRIDGES - dedicated his prize for Best Rap Album at the Grammy Awards in Los Angeles earlier this month (FEB07) to his ailing father. The 29-year-old said at the time that his dad was in critical condition and fighting for his life. In a statement released yesterday (26FEB07), Ludacris said, "We are overwhelmed by the generous outpouring of love, condolences and support from family members, friends, fans and the many well-wishers. "We thank you for your prayers and hope you will understand our need for privacy during this sorrowful time." According to the rapper's publicist, the family has chosen not to publicly announce the cause of death and are planning a private funeral in Atlanta.