Former Hollyoaks actor Paul Dennon, who played Sol Patrick in the Channel 4 soap from 1997 to 2001, has died aged 46, his management company has said.
A statement from Independent Creative Management said: “It is with heavy hearts that we share the tragic news of Paul Denon’s passing at the age of just 46.
“Known for his television presence, extraordinary talent, and unwavering kindness, Paul was a beacon of light to many.”
Dannon was also known for his appearances on Celebrity Love Island in 2005 and 2006 and Celebrity Big Brother in 2017.
Danaan’s management company added: “His untimely passing will leave an irreparable void in the lives of all who knew him.
“During this difficult time, we ask for respect and privacy for Paul’s family, friends and colleagues.”
Dannon, who was born and raised in Essex, had small roles in EastEnders as a child, then went to London’s Italia Conti drama school and joined Hollyoaks at 19.
Her character Sol was a tearjerker and fan favorite – and something of a heartthrob on the soap.
Dannon asked to leave the show after four years and Sol was last seen fleeing the village with Jess Holt.
He moved to Los Angeles, where he spent three and a half years trying to build his career.
“But I tried to party and did well, and you can’t be a Hollywood star if you’re also partying.” He told BBC Radio Bristol last year.
“I was young, I was 22, 23, and I came back really thin with a tan but there was no work. So I came back and… all of a sudden reality TV came along and I thought, I’ll do it. I will go and earn money.
Most recently, he started the podcast The Morning After With Paul Danan, which ran from 2019 to 2023.
His other appearances included E4’s Celebrity Coach Trip and Channel 4 sketch comedy program The Kevin Bishop Show. The actor also said that he would like to return to Hollyoaks.
Danan spoke about his health struggles after being in intensive care with pneumonia last year.
He told The Sun on Sunday that the hospital staff had asked him to give up smoking in any form. After giving up cigarettes in the past two years, Dan said he became “obsessed” with disposable vapes.
He has also discussed past problems with drugs, including cocaine and codeine addictions, which he developed while living in the US in his 20s. Used to “soothe myself” after losing acting parts.
He also said he had spent more than £1m in rehab over the years and had once overdosed on heroin.