Hollyoaks star Paul Danan has tragically passed away at the age of 46. His management confirmed his death in a statement this morning: “It is with heavy hearts that we share the tragic news of the passing of @pauldanan 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. No further comments will be made at this time.”
Prior to his death, Danan had been candid about his health struggles, revealing that he was rushed to Whipps Cross Hospital in London last year after collapsing.
He went into intensive care and was diagnosed with pneumonia. “I was dead – it’s a miracle I’m here. I’m upstairs puffing away on my vape then suddenly I lost my breath and collapsed. My family called for an ambulance and started giving me CPR, then police arrived and took over before paramedics took me to hospital,” he disclosed previously.
The actor believed his life-threatening condition was caused by vaping and shared a harrowing recollection of his family being told to prepare for the worst during his hospitalisation: “I was on a machine in ICU and ended up with pneumonia. My family were warned that I might not make it through the night. I’m so lucky.”
Paul reflected on the doctor being quite “harsh” and sternly warning him about the gravity of the situation, telling him that any further smoking could result in him needing an oxygen tank, reports the Mirror.
Despite quitting smoking in 2021, Paul had switched to vaping, under the impression it was a safer alternative. “I saw a YouTube video where someone blew cigarette smoke into cotton wool then did the same with a vape. The cotton wool turned black from the smoke from the cigarette, but the wool remained the same colour after the vape vapour hit it… Off the back of that, in my head – because I have ADHD everything is very visual – I’ve always thought they’d be OK,” he explained.
His vaping, however, spiralled into an obsession. He admitted: “Everywhere I went I’d have my vape with me. I’d always have one in my hand, I would even go to sleep with it, like a comfort thing.”
Get the latest celebrity gossip and telly news sent straight to your inbox. Sign up to our daily Showbiz newsletter here.