Posted by
Billy on Monday, May 31, 2010 12:31:46 PM
At the young age of 42 Gary Coleman died on Friday.
He was taken off of life support and later passed away. His wife Shannon Price and her father were at the hospital Friday.
The death of Coleman marks the end of what has been a sad road. It also can be a good teaching to young people that fame and power doesn't bring one joy. I recall growing up watching Cary on the hit family show Diff'rent Strokes. It was a funny show that had good family values and taught young people some good stuff. I recall one show in which Nancy Reagan had a part in to do with drug abuse. It was great . However after Different Strokes life wasn't good for Cary he struggled both professionally and financially as his fame and fortune diminished after the show went off the air in 1986.
Coleman’s growth was hampered at a young age by a kidney disease caused by focal segmental glomerulosclerosis, as he never grew beyond 4 feet, 8 inches tall. He twice had kidney transplants in 1973 and 1984, He required daily dialysis in his everyday life.
Coleman told Geraldo Rivera in 1993 that he had twice taken sleeping pills in attempts to overdose.
Later in life the star was given some publicity when he threw his name in the hat of the circus that was California's 2003 recall election. He was given more votes than other show biz candidates. He ended with an eighth overall finish to eventual winner Arnold Schwarzenegger.
Coleman's death marks another sad chapter for the stars of Diff'rent Strokes. Todd Bridges' career was stunted by frequent drug incidents, while Dana Plato, who played Kimberly Drummond on the show, committed suicide in 1999.
The one thing good far as these young stars go Todd Bridges has changed his life. He tells about it in a book he wrote. I also believe he found a faith in God. It was sad that the same can't be said for Gary Coleman. I will never forget watching him as a little kid every week. He had such a gift in acting. It is too bad his life wasn't as blessed as his acting was at a young age. This should show young people and all of us fame and power doesn't give one a joyful life. If you like you can read more about Gary Coleman's life and death at the following link. Gary Coleman Dead At 42.
