The late Paul Danan described his son as his “everything”, with the nine-year-old said to be his “proudest achievement”, ahead of his tragic death last week.
It was announced on Thursday that former Hollyoaks star Paul had passed away, aged 46. The news was met with tributes to the actor, who rose to fame on the Channel 4 soap opera before appearing on the original Love Island.
A fundraiser has been set up to “make his son’s journey a little bit easier” following Paul’s death. The JustGiving page has already raised more than £3,000 towards its £10,000 target, with over a 100 supporters having donated so far.
Paul welcomed his son DeNiro, now nine, in 2015 and is thought to have since co-parented him with a former partner. The reality TV star gave insights into his relationship with DeNiro over the years and occasionally shared photos from their days out together, including in posts on Instagram.
Among other activities, Paul posted in recent years about them having visited a bowling alley and arcade on a few occasions, as well as having been to a family festival. He also shared that he had enjoyed time in Spain with DeNiro.
Posting about being a parent in 2022, Paul wrote beside a photo of himself and his son: “My life, my world, my everything.” He also paid tribute to DeNiro in a post on the platform that marked his eighth birthday the following year.
Paul wrote in the message at the time: “Happy birthday to my most precious beautiful amazing child in the whole wide world! I love you so so much and want to be with you every day and pls G-d one day we will. For now I will wish you the most amazing birthday wishes and hope all your dreams come true. I love you baby. Always and forever Daddy.”
Following the news of his death, a source told the Sun: “Paul adored his son DeNiro. There were a lot of things Paul wasn’t proud of in his life, but DeNiro was his proudest achievement.” They added that he “loved” being a father.
“While he didn’t see him every day because he co-parented him with his ex, Paul always looked forward to his weekends spent on dad duty,” the source said. They added that it’s “devastating” that DeNiro has lost his dad at his age.
Paul’s death was announced in a statement by his management earlier this week, as reported at the time. It read: “It is with heavy hearts that we share the tragic news of the passing of @pauldanan at just 46 years old. Known for his television presence, exceptional talent, and unwavering kindness, Paul was a beacon of light to so many.”
The statement continued: “His untimely departure will leave irreplaceable voids in the lives of all who knew him. During this difficult time, we kindly request respect and privacy for Paul’s family, friends, and colleagues. No further comments will be made at this time.”
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