US actor Gary Coleman dies in hospital: reports

Afp
Friday 28 May 2010 00:00 BST
Comments

Your support helps us to tell the story

From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.

At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.

The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.

Your support makes all the difference.

Diminutive former child actor Gary Coleman, known to millions as the star of hit sitcom "Diff'rent Strokes," died Friday after suffering a brain hemorrhage, US media reported.

Coleman, 42, had been on life support after being hospitalized at the Utah Valley Regional Medical Center on Wednesday, according to a family statement.

People magazine reported on its website that coma-stricken Coleman died shortly after midday after being taken off life support.

"Family members and close friends were at his side when life support was terminated," People quoted a statement as saying.

"Family members express their appreciation and gratitude for the support and prayers that have been expressed for Gary and for them."

Coleman achieved huge fame through his role as Arnold Jackson in hit show "Diff'rent Strokes," which ran for eight years from 1978 to 1986.

He was best known for his character's catchphrase - "What'choo talkin' 'bout Willis?"

Despite the show's success, Coleman remained mired in financial difficulties, and was unable to emulate the success of his childhood acting career as an adult.

Coleman had regularly hit the headlines in recent years because of his stormy marital life. Both Coleman and wife Shannon Price had been detained on separate incidents of domestic violence since they tied the knot in 2006.

Coleman's family acknowledged the actor's personal problems in a statement issued earlier Friday, but said the former child star had no regrets about his entertainment career.

Apple TV+ logo

Watch Apple TV+ free for 7 days

New subscribers only. £8.99/mo. after free trial. Plan auto-renews until cancelled

Try for free
Apple TV+ logo

Watch Apple TV+ free for 7 days

New subscribers only. £8.99/mo. after free trial. Plan auto-renews until cancelled

Try for free

"In recent years Gary Coleman has had difficulties, not only with health issues, but also with his personal and public life," the statement said.

"At times, it may not have been apparent, but he always has had fond memories of being an entertainer and appreciates his fans for all their support over the years."

Join our commenting forum

Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies

Comments

Thank you for registering

Please refresh the page or navigate to another page on the site to be automatically logged inPlease refresh your browser to be logged in