Paul Danan described his son as his “everything”, with the nine-year-old said to be his “proudest achievement”, before his tragic death last week.
It was announced on Thursday that former Hollyoaks star Paul had passed away, aged 46. Paul’s management later confirmed that the Celebs Go Dating star had an “untimely departure” after he “slipped and fell” at a luxury apartment in Bristol. 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.
Today, Paul will be laid to rest as his son DeNiro will say his final goodbye to his beloved dad following his shock passing.
Following the news of Paul’s death last week, a fundraiser has been set up to “make his son’s journey a little bit easier”. The JustGiving page has already raised more than £6,000 towards its £10,000 target, with over 200 supporters having donated so far.
They described their “unique” friend as the most “extra” person, adding that his family have been left “devastated”, and say they hope to raise £10,000. The tribute on the page reads: “There was NO ONE like Pauly. His excitement and vitality for life were magnetic. He was warm, kind, funny – actually hilarious, vulnerable, self-deprecating and captivating.
“Being his friend was a visceral experience, and I defy anyone to close their eyes and picture Pauly with anything but that huge, cheeky, dimpled smile. NEVER one to conform or do anything in an expected or generic way, Paul really was the most ‘Extra’ and unique person you could ever meet.”
Touching on Paul’s well-documented issues with addiction, they continued: “It’s no secret that he struggled and lost his way at times, but in his true essence, the REAL Pauly, would do anything for anyone no matter what. Whether you knew him from school, Hollyoaks, Love Island, CBB, his rehab journey, or you were just lucky enough to cross paths, he’s sure to have left a gaping Pauly-shaped hole in your heart right now. But he has also left behind a 9 year-old son – DeNiro, and a devastated family.”
The description signed off: “This page has been set up in Paul’s memory, to make his son’s journey a little bit easier. Please give what you can xxx.”
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.
On January 16, Paul’s untimely death was announced by his management in a heartbreaking statement which 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. 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.”
Donations can be made to Paul Danan’s Go Fund Me page here.
If you are struggling with alcohol abuse or addiction, advice and support can be found at alcoholchange.org.uk
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