Who was Hollyoaks star Paul Danan who appeared on Celebrity Love Island and CBB? – The Sun
PAUL Danan was a beloved actor known for his iconic appearances on Hollyoaks and Celebrity Love Island.
Sadly, the star passed away on January 16, 2025, due to a “combined toxicity” of illegal drugs.
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Finding fame on Hollyoaks
Paul Danan was born on July 2, 1978, and raised in the Essex town of Chigwell.
He shot to fame on the hit soap opera Hollyoaks when he starred as the show’s lead bad boy Sol Patrick.
He quickly a teen heartthrob and remained on Hollyoaks for four years, before eventually departing in 2001.
During his time on the show, Sol’s character was the face of several intense storylines, which saw him homeless and in a relationship with a sex worker.
His character left the village following several fights with his girlfriend’s pimp that caused the pair to push him from a balcony.
After his time on the soap, he appeared on many major British TV shows, including Test Drive My Girlfriend, The Kevin Bishop Show, and Stars & Strikes.
Paul’s headline-making appearance on Love Island
Paul made waves on Celebrity Love Island when he starred in the show alongside Calum Best, Fran Cosgrave, and Abi Titmuss in 2005.
He was seen trying to woo Lady Isabella Harvey into bed after a champagne-fulled night out, but was ultimately unsuccessful.
The star made headlines when security removed him from the Love Island villa.
However, he was able to return and, although he didn’t win, he left the show as a fan-favourite.
In 2022, he also appeared on Celebrity Coach Trip.
Away from reality TV, Paul has acted in The Queen’s Nose, Crime Stories, and Are We Dead Yet.
Paul’s life off-screen
Paul had many high-profile romances over the years.
He dated Katie Price, Melanie Sykes and Kelly Brook – and kissed award-winning actress Angelina Jolie.
He had one son, DeNiro, who was born in 2015.
Paul was an advocate for speaking up about mental health issues.
He was open about visiting rehab 17 times and has been critical of reality TV executives allowing vulnerable people to appear on their shows.
Paul ran a successful theatre company in Hertfordshire and hosted a chart-topping podcast named The Morning After.
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Paul’s tragic death
Sadly, the star passed away on January 16, 2025.
Paul had been open about his health struggles throughout his career, which included a battle with drug abuse and with a vape addiction that led to serious respiratory problems.
An inquest revealed that he was found dead on his sofa, with the TV still playing.
According to the coroner, he death was caused by a “combined toxicity” of drugs, including heroin, methadone and cocaine.
His cause of death was ruled as a misadventure, with Coroner Debbie Brooks confirming that he did not choose to end his life.
Paul’s mum Beverley Danan paid tribute to her son in a statement read to the court.
She 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.”
