Paul Danan, a recognizable star from soap operas and reality television, has been ruled to have passed away due to a misadventure involving a mix of prescribed and illicit drugs, as stated by a coroner. During a recent hearing at Avon coroner’s court in Flax Bourton, assistant coroner Debbie Rookes highlighted that Danan, known for his roles on Channel 4’s Hollyoaks and stints on shows like Celebrity Big Brother and Celebrity Love Island, was found unresponsive at his home in Brislington, Bristol, on January 15th.
Emergency services confirmed his death, with his partner, Melissa Crooks, identifying him at the scene. Rookes emphasized that there was no indication that Danan had intended to take his own life, attributing his death to a history of drug misuse and mental health struggles. “Paul Danan was clearly much loved and is very much missed,” Rookes stated. She noted, “His death was caused by a combination of drugs, both prescription and illicit,” adding a poignant reflection on Danan’s long battle with mental health challenges.
His mother, Beverley Danan, expressed her sorrow in a statement to the court: “Paul helped so many people from all walks of life but just couldn’t help himself in the same way. His smiling face and love of life will always be remembered.”
Danan was facing legal issues, including charges for drug possession and driving under the influence, prior to his death. He openly discussed his struggles with substance abuse and the effort required for recovery on ITV’s The Jeremy Kyle Show in 2019. Calum Best, a fellow reality star, reminisced about Danan, praising him as one of the “funniest, kindest, and most authentic people” he had known.
In a statement from Independent Creative Management, Danan was remembered as a “beacon of light” whose untimely passing creates an irreplaceable void for those who knew him.
This tragic event serves as a reminder of the importance of mental health awareness and support systems for individuals battling substance misuse. While Danan’s life was filled with joy and laughter, his struggles highlight the broader conversation surrounding mental health and recovery.