Hollyoaks and reality TV star Paul Danan: Inquest into death resumes

An inquest is resuming into the death of Hollyoaks and reality TV star Paul Danan.

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

A hearing in March heard he died after consuming a cocktail of drugs, including cocaine and heroin.

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.

Following an adjournment earlier this year, the inquest will resume at Avon Coroner’s Court in Flax Bourton before assistant coroner Deborah Rookes.

The court was previously told that the provisional cause of Danan’s death was combined toxicity of heroin, methadone, codeine, pregabalin, cocaine, zopiclone, contributed to by benzodiazepine use.

His body was identified at the scene by his partner, Melissa Crooks.

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 2 October last year in Warrington, Cheshire.

Danan 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.”