Austin Majors, a former child actor who appeared on the ABC series “NYPD Blue,” has died at age 27 in Los Angeles.
A source close to the matter told the outlet that although foul play was not suspected to be involved, Majors is believed to have “ingested a fatal amount of fentanyl.”
An autopsy on the former actor’s body was completed Monday, with the final toxicology results expected to be released in a few months.
Following his death, Majors’s family released a statement, paying a tribute to the “loving, artistic, brilliant, and kind human being.”
“Austin took great joy and pride in his acting career. He was an active Eagle Scout and graduated Salutatorian in High School. He went on to graduate from USC’s School of Cinematic Arts with a passion of directing and music producing,” they told TMZ.
The statement continued: “Austin’s younger sister, Kali, says her fondest memories with Austin were growing up on set with him, volunteering at events with Kids With a Cause, and backpacking together.”
“Austin was the kind of son, brother, grandson, and nephew that made us proud and we will miss him deeply forever.”
Majors starred as Theo Sipowicz in NYPD Blue for seven seasons, portraying the son of Detective Andy Sipowicz, who was played by Dennis Franz.
“I was so shocked and saddened to hear of Austin’s passing. Austin was always such a joy to have on the set, he brought smiles and happiness to everyone,” Franz told the outlet.
“Although we haven’t stayed in touch since the show ended in 2005, I will always remember him fondly. My love and condolences to his family.”
Majors received the 2002 Young Artists Award for Best Performance in a Television Series for his work on NYPD Blue. He was nominated for the same award in 2003 and 2004.
His work on “Treasure Planet” earned him a nomination for best performance in a voiceover role.
Majors’s television credits include episodes of “ER,” “NCIS,” “American Dad,” “Desperate Housewives,” and “How I Met Your Mother.”