Hollyoaks and reality TV star Paul Danan has been described as a “beacon of light” after his death aged 46.
The actor played bad boy Sol Patrick from 1997 to 2001 on the Channel 4 soap and was later known for his reality TV appearances, including on Celebrity Big Brother and Celebrity Love Island.
He had been due to appear for a plea hearing at Warrington Magistrates’ Court inCheshire, England, on Thursday after being charged with possession of cocaine and a “quantity” of cannabis, according to court documents.
He was also accused of drug driving in October last year.
Paul Danan, former Hollyoaks star, dies aged 46
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Bafta-winning actor writer, director, and producer Adam Deacon, and EastEnders actor Dean Gaffney are among those who have paid tribute to Danan.
Calum Best, son of footballer George Best who took part on Celebrity Love Island and a reality travel programme with Danan, described the actor as “one of the funniest, kindest, and most real people I’ve ever known”, and said they shared “so many laughs, chats, and unforgettable moments”.
A statement from Independent Creative Management said: “It is with heavy hearts that we share the tragic news of the passing of Paul Danan at just 46 years old. Known for his television presence, exceptional talent, and unwavering kindness, Paul was a beacon of light to so many.
“His untimely departure will leave irreplaceable voids in the lives of all who knew him.
“During this difficult time, we kindly request respect and privacy for Paul’s family, friends, and colleagues.”
Danan was an ITV Celebrity Love Island contestant in 2005 and 2006, though he did not win either series. He also appeared in the 2006 reality show Calum, Fran And Dangerous Danan, which saw the actor, former Westlife bodyguard and Celebrity Love Island winner Fran Cosgrave and Best travel across the US.
Best said in a statement to the PA news agency: “Paul was one of the funniest, kindest, and most real people I’ve ever known – truly a creative genius too. Life wasn’t always easy for him, but he faced it with such heart and courage, and that inspired so many of us.
“We shared so many laughs, chats, and unforgettable moments. My heart goes out to his loved ones right now. Rest easy, brother.”
In 2017, Danan took part in Channel 5’s Celebrity Big Brother, where he was evicted early, and said at the time he hoped the series would give him a “second chance” at his career.
He regularly called for his return to Hollyoaks, and later began the podcast The Morning After With Paul Danan, which lasted from 2019 until 2023. ord and the southwest of England. Its website says it is aimed at young people, recovering addicts, and former prisoners.
His other appearances included E4’s Celebrity Coach Trip, and Channel 4 sketch comedy programme The Kevin Bishop Show.
Deacon called Danan a “genuinely kind and compassionate person”, following him having the “pleasure of working with him”. Gaffney paid tribute to Danan, saying he “had a heart of gold”.
Last year, Danan told The Sun about his addiction to vaping, saying he had collapsed in May over e-cigarette use.
He had previously discussed his substance abuse and recovery on ITV’s The Jeremy Kyle Show in 2019, which he says began when he was a teenager. Danan said he had to “work hard at it every day to keep in recovery.”
In 2010, he pleaded guilty to drugs and public order offences, and was fined £350 and referred to a drugs agency for support by Stevenage Magistrates’ Court. – PA
