Paul Danan's cause of death confirmed after Hollyoaks star's body found at home
Hollyoaks star Paul Danan died aged just 46 in January 2025 - and now his cause of death has been confirmed.
Hollyoaks star Paul Danan's cause of death has been confirmed at an inquest.
A cocktail of drugs including cocaine and heroin was found in the actor's system, which was deemed to have killed the 46-year-old. The inquest heard Paul's primary cause of death was a "combined toxicity" of drugs, which also included methadone. He was identified by his girlfriend Melissa Crooks after being declared dead at the scene.
Coroner Marie Voisin adjourned the full inquest until May 28 pending reports.
At the time of his death, Paul’s management released a statement that read: “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."
According to reports, an ambulance was called to the star’s luxury apartment near Bristol, where he was declared deceased by paramedics. Avon and Somerset Police confirmed they were called to a home in the Brislington area at around 5:20pm on January 15. They were not treating the star's death as suspicious.
Paul was due in court on driving and drug offences the day his death was announced – set to plead at Warrington Magistrates Court in Cheshire charged with possession of cocaine and cannabis.
He faced accusations of driving under the influence of drugs on October 2, 2024, in Warrington. Six months prior to his death, Paul had a brush with death, suffering respiratory failure which he attributed to vaping addiction.
Doctors warned that if he took up smoking again he could be dependent on an oxygen tank for the rest of his life.
Paul’s funeral took place at Waltham Abbey days after his death, in-keeping with Jewish funeral traditions. The actor – of Moroccan and Jewish descent – was buried less than a week after his body was found.
Paul was best known for playing bad boy Sol Patrick in Hollyoaks from 1997 until 2001, as well as stints on Love Island.