It's been a couple days since word began going around about Mal Burns, who has been writing and doing videos about Second Life and other virtual worlds,
suddenly passing away. The cause of death is not yet widely known, though the first few people who found out kept quiet about it for a short time until his family in England were contacted.
It is with a heavy heart that I am sharing the news that our dearest Mal Burns has passed away this week.
He has been a cherished friend, trusted colleague, and a vibrant voice in our virtual and real life community for over 20 years.
We met through a shared passion for virtual worlds, and that connection blossomed into decades of collaboration, camaraderie, and friendship.
Mal was an avid reporter, an insightful storyteller, and a tireless advocate for truth in all its digital forms. His work helped shape how many experienced and understood online spaces — always with integrity, always with flair.
For two decades, we shared laughter, many conversations, and a passion for exploring both the fun and serious sides of life — especially in the evolving landscapes of virtual worlds. He was more than just a show host or fellow journalist; he was a pioneer, a storyteller, and a sharp observer of the digital age.
He had that rare gift — the ability to make you laugh with his wonderful humour even when the subject was complex or challenging.
He brought so many people together, sparked meaningful dialogue, and gave voice to stories that might have otherwise gone unheard. His dedication to journalism and his unrelenting curiosity helped shape the way many of us see and understand virtual communities.
His absence leaves a space that words can hardly fill. But the legacy he leaves behind — in friendships, in stories, and in the memories we carry — will continue to inspire.
Rest well, my wonderful Grumpy Old Avatar, my Metaverse TV colleague, My Metameets buddy and my dear funny friend. Thank you for the years, the wisdom, the laughter, and the journey.
There were numerous comments on Facebook and some in Discord expressing sadness at his passing, some in a new Facebook group "
Friends of Mal."
"I
am broken hearted with the loss of such a wonderful and charming man.
He was so much fun to work with, funny and patient. I very much enjoyed
working with him and talking with him and joining him on Inworld
Review. My condolences to his family and close friends may God grant
you peace and comfort in this time of loss and sadness. Blessings and
much love to all."
"Incredibly
sad to hear you have passed away. I hope you are at peace . We never
know what to say truly in times like this but rest well. Condolences to
those that knew you so much more."
"I
am devastated. I loved and respected Mal, and I will miss his
friendship and spending time with him, as we all will. ... I am honored to have photographed him and had the opportunity to
know him. It's a lot, and there are many more, as I enjoyed taking
photos of him. I couldn't narrow it down any further, so here they are.
Rest in Peace, Dear Friend. Until we meet again."
"I
just learned of Mal’s passing and it truly feels like the light in SL
has gotten a little bit dimmer. He was a constant source of inspiration
during the many years I was part of large events. He was a thoughtful
and encouraging man who was a shining force all his own. Rest well,
Sir, you have earned it."
"I am sorry, Mal Burns passed away. A voice unmistakable among all, a considerable and inexhaustible flow of words. A burst of laughter, frank and infectious. An endearing personality, mixing curiosity, humor and sharing. The OpenSim community will miss him so much; he put so much energy and investment into it; it's a great loss for all of us. My condolences to all his loved ones, as well as to the HIE team."
"This
breaks my heart, he was such a wonderful and charming personality,
intelligent and funny and always interested in what people are doing to
make Opensim an enjoyable and educational place to be. He will be
greatly missed and forever loved. My sincerest condolences to his
family and loved ones."
"I
will miss his infectious wit and candor. A long standing fixture in the
opensim and a few other communities, he was always a gentleman and
diplomat. Mal's voice and presence set a good example of how we could
engage and inspire each other, to create freely and try our best, to be
collaborative, and share openly. Of course he will be fondly remembered
and sorely missed. Safe paths, my friend."
"
Here in Craft-World we are deeply saddened to hear of the unexpected passing of Mal Burns, a cherished figure for all the OpenSimulator community and the voice behind the long-running YouTube talk show Inworld Review.Mal was a passionate advocate for the open metaverse. Through Inworld Review,
he brought together voices from across OpenSim - creators, developers,
dreamers - giving space to dialogue, inspiration, and that friendship
spirit that makes OpenSim a special place. His commitment to documenting
and discussing the evolution of virtual worlds made him a cornerstone
of our shared digital culture....His presence, insight, and dedication will be sorely missed. We
extend our deepest condolences to his family and to all who knew him
and collaborated with him. The entire Craft-World team, and the broader
OpenSim community, mourn his loss. Farewell, Mal. Thank you for everything you gave us. The metaverse is quieter without you."
Rest in Peace
Bixyl Shuftan
