Adam Rich, one of Hollywood’s favorite child stars of the 70s, passed away at the age of 54. His death was confirmed by a family remember in a report from TMZ, and he expired in his home in Los Angeles on Saturday. The cause of death is not yet identified.
Rich is known for his role as the youngest of eight children in the ABC sitcom series Eight is Enough. It follows the Bradford family’s daily lives where Rich portrayed Nicholas Bradford. The show ran from 1977 to 1981.
Former Child Actor Adam Rich Lived A Troubled Life
Adam Rich was known for his page-boy hairstyle that many fans tried to imitate. The former child star was a darling of the crowd, and he was called “America’s Little Brother.” Danny Deraney, Rich’s publicist, said in a Twitter statement:
“He was kind, generous, and a warrior in the fight against mental illness. Adam did not have an ounce of ego. He was unselfish and always looked out for those he cared about. Which is why many people who grew up with him feel a part of their childhood gone and sad today.”
According to Deraney, the late actor suffered a type of depression. Despite his success in the show business industry, Rich also led a troubled life. In 1991, he was arrested for property damage by smashing a pharmacy window to obtain drugs. Van Patten, his former TV father, bailed him out.
Rich went into rehabilitation but was arrested again in 2002 for driving under the influence. The actor almost destroyed a highway patrol car.
While the cause of his death has not been revealed, Lt. Aimee Earl of the Los Angeles County Medical-Examiner Coroner’s office confirmed that there was no foul play.
Adam Rich Advocated To Remove Stigma Around Mental Illness
Adam Rich’s other notable projects include Code Red, Small Wonder, Dungeons & Dragons, and Baywatch. He also appeared in a cameo role in the David Spade movie Dickie Roberts: Former Child Star.
His passing was greatly mourned by fans and friends in the industry. Rich’s last tweet talked about mental illness which he wrote:
“Human beings weren’t built to endure mental illness. The mere fact that some people consider those to be weak, or have a lack of will is totally laughable… because it’s the total opposite! It takes a very, very strong person… a warrior if you will… to battle such illnesses.”
Rich frequently talked about mental health and the stigma surrounding it on his social media. In October, the former child actor referenced his past experiences to celebrate seven years of being sober.
Source: TMZ
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