Paul Danan died by 'misadventure' after taking drugs

Actor and reality TV star Paul Danan's death was by misadventure, after he took a cocktail of drugs including cocaine and heroin, a coroner has ruled.

The 46-year-old was pronounced dead at 17:20 GMT on 15 January after being found unresponsive at his home in Brislington, Bristol.

Danan, who played Sol Patrick in Hollyoaks and was known for his appearances on Celebrity Big Brother and Celebrity Love Island, had battled with addiction since his early 20s, and admitted spending more than £1m on rehab and recovery over the years.

The coroner said that none of the drugs Danan had taken were found in high levels, but their combined effect resulted in "fatal respiratory depression".

Following an adjournment in March, the inquest into Danan's death resumed earlier at Avon Coroner's Court in Flax Bourton before assistant coroner Deborah Rookes.

A postmortem examination concluded that his death was due to combined toxicity of heroin, methadone, codeine, pregabalin, cocaine and zopiclone, contributed to by benzodiazepine use.

His body was identified at the scene by his partner, Melissa Crooks, who raised the alarm when she could not get hold of Danan after the pair had gone out drinking the previous night.

A ladder was used to gain entry to his first floor flat where he was discovered slumped on the sofa, with the television on in front of him.

Ms Rookes heard written statements from emergency services, doctors, and Danan's mother Beverley Danan before reaching her conclusion.

The statement from Mrs Danan said: "Paul helped so many people from all walks of life but just couldn't help himself in the same way.

"His smiling face and love of life will always be remembered."

Ms Rookes told the hearing there was no evidence that Danan, who suffered an accidental overdose in May 2024, had intended to take his own life.

She added: "Paul Danan was clearly much loved and is very much missed.

"Mr Danan had a long history of drug misuse and struggles with his mental health.

"His death was caused by a combination of drugs, both prescription and illicit.

"I don't have any evidence before me that Paul intended to take his own life at this time.

"Therefore, the conclusion is misadventure."

Danan had been due to appear for a plea hearing at Warrington Magistrates' Court the following day, after being charged with possession of cocaine and cannabis.

He was also accused of driving whilst under the influence of drugs on October 2 last year, in Warrington, Cheshire.

The actor had openly discussed his substance abuse issues on ITV's The Jeremy Kyle Show in 2019, which he said began when he was a teenager.

He stated he had to "work hard at it every day to keep in recovery".

Calum Best, who took part in Celebrity Love Island and a reality travel programme alongside Danan, described him as one of the "funniest, kindest, and most authentic people".

In an Instagram post after Danan's death, he said: "Life wasn't always easy for him, but he faced it with such heart and courage, and that inspired so many of us."

In 2020, Danan launched drama classes in Bristol for ex-convicts and adults struggling with mental health issues, addiction or trauma.

Following his death, his agents at Independent Creative Management said: "It is with heavy hearts that we share the tragic news of the passing of Paul Danan.

"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."

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