Former ‘Hollyoaks’ Star and TV Personality Paul Danan Dies at 46

Paul Danan attends the Michael Jackson "Scream" album launch at Odeon Covent Garden in London on Sept. 26, 2017. John Phillips/Getty Images

Paul Danan, a British actor and television personality known for starring in the award-winning soap opera “Hollyoaks,” has died at the age of 46.

Danan’s death was announced on Thursday by his talent firm, Independent Creative Management.

“It is with heavy hearts that we share the tragic news of the passing of Paul Danan at just 46 years old,” the agency wrote on Instagram.

“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. No further comments will be made at this time.”

Danan’s cause of death has not been disclosed.

The reality star was hospitalized in May 2024 after experiencing respiratory failure due to years of smoking, according to The Sun.

“I was dead—it’s a miracle I’m here,” Danan told the publication the following month, adding that he lost his breath and collapsed while he was smoking an e-cigarette, also known as vaping.

“My family called for an ambulance and started giving me CPR, then police arrived and took over before paramedics took me to hospital.

“I was on a machine in ICU and ended up with pneumonia. My family were warned I might not make it through the night. I’m so lucky.”

Born on July 2, 1978, in Essex, England, Danan attended the Italia Conti Academy of Performing Arts in Surrey, England. He went on to land his breakthrough role in 1997, playing Sol Patrick on Channel 4’s long-running drama “Hollyoaks.”

In 2002, the actor starred in the telefilm “Daddy’s Girl” and the BBC children’s television series “The Queen’s Nose.” Subsequent television credits include “Adventure Inc.,” “Casualty,” “Crime Stories,” and “Good Girls Club,” per his IMDb.

Danan was also known for his appearances on British reality shows, including “Celebrity Love Island” and “Celebrity Big Brother.”

In 2020, the actor founded Morning After Drama, an organization that supports people who have experienced trauma, addiction, and other mental health challenges.

‘Never Forgotten’

Danan’s former “Hollyoaks” costars were among those who paid tribute to him online.

“I’m gutted that Paul Danan’s not here anymore. He was a kind man who genuinely cared about whatever he was doing, and would tell you he ‘luffed you’ at every opportunity,” Joe Tracini, who played Dennis Savage on the British soap, wrote on the social media platform X.

“We hadn’t spoken in a while, but I’ll miss him, and I’ll always wish I’d called him back.”

British actor Michael Greco, known for his roles in “EastEnders” and “The Hunger Games: The Ballad of Songbirds & Snakes,” shared a similar sentiment, writing: “So, so sad to read about the passing of Paul Danan.

“In this day and age of falsities and fake people, he was a genuine and caring man who just wanted to please everyone. A lovely warm man that will be missed by many. R.I.P. Buddy.”

Comedian Daniel O’Reilly wrote: “Gona miss your voice notes mate.

“I wanted to say a few words to do my bit to keep his memory positive because regardless of his struggles, struggles I only know to well, and regardless of what you read, he was a good kind man.”

Liam Tuffs, host of the podcast “The Dozen,” said “it was a joy” to have spent time with Danan.

“He was full of kindness & empathy,” Tuffs wrote online. “He may be gone, but he’ll never be forgotten.”

“Paul Danan, had zero ego always was more interested in you than himself,” penned British television personality Tony Dortie.

“Just loved life and wanted life to love him back.....to me he had DNA of kindness and was extremely funny. His son should know even the demons couldn’t stop his Daddy being a good guy through and through.”

Danan is survived by his 9-year-old son, DeNiro.