Emmerdale actor Sam Gannon has died suddenly aged 31 while staying with family in the US.
The actor's heartbroken sister Amy Kelly confirmed that he passed away on Tuesday, August 2. Sam's death is currently being investigated by police, but is not being treated as suspicious.
Paying tribute to her brother, Amy said: "Sam was a whirlwind, a unique character to say the least. He genuinely cared for others and was a very sensitive soul. It is clear from the tributes we have received that he touched the hearts of so many."
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Friend Lewis Matthews added: "Sam was a ‘real life Duracell bunny' with a seemingly endless supply of energy and love. He delighted audiences with his charm, wit and his wonderful musical abilities."
Sam appeared in two episodes of the ITV soap as Kev, a horse-drawn carriage coachman, back in 2019, and shared the screen with Charity Dingle star Emma Atkins. It is understood the former Brayton High School student, who grew up in Brayton, near Selby, had been staying with family in Willows, California at the time of his death.
A fundraiser with a target of £17,000 has been set up to bring him home to be laid to rest. More than £6,000 have so far been donated.
On the page it states: "Sam was a true performer, and any extra money raised will be donated to a UK charity supporting youth theatre, a cause close to Sam’s heart. Amy, Sam’s sister, is also looking at setting up a foundation in Sam’s name to support people who find themselves in a similar position to him and need extra support."
If you would like to donate, you can do so here.
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