TV Star Paul Danan Dies Less Than A Year After Health Scare Linked To Vaping
The entertainment world is mourning the loss of Paul Danan, the actor and reality TV icon, who passed away at the age of 46. The heartbreaking news was confirmed on January 16 by Independent Creative Management, his management company, through a poignant Instagram post.
“It is with heavy hearts that we share the tragic news of the passing of Paul Danan at just 46 years old,” the statement read.
“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,” the company added, going on to ask for privacy on behalf of Paul’s family and friends during this difficult time.
Paul rose to fame for his unforgettable portrayal of Sol Patrick on Hollyoaks from 1997 to 2001, cementing his status as a beloved star in British television. Beyond his soap opera fame, Paul charmed audiences on children’s shows like The Queen’s Nose and The Basil Brush Show. Later, he proved his versatility by taking on a role in the medical drama Casualty.
Paul’s captivating personality made him a natural fit for reality television, where he became a household name. From the high-stakes drama of Celebrity Love Island to his memorable appearances on Celebrity Big Brother and Come Dine With Me, Paul became British reality TV royalty.
Tragically, Paul’s passing comes less than a year after he opened up about a life-threatening health scare linked to vaping. In June 2024, he revealed that he had suffered respiratory failure due to his vaping habit. “I’m upstairs puffing away on my vape, then suddenly I lost my breath and collapsed,” Paul told The Sun.
His family called emergency services, performed CPR, and stayed by his side as paramedics rushed him to the hospital. Paul was placed in the ICU, battling pneumonia, and was warned he might not make it through the night.
Paul later recalled a stern warning from his doctor during his recovery. “She told me, ‘Paul, you don’t know how serious this was… she said if I ever smoke in any form again I risk being linked to an oxygen tank later in life.’” The experience was a wake-up call, with Paul admitting that vaping after years of cigarette use had “pushed me over the edge.”