31-Year-Old British Actor Suddenly Dies While Traveling Abroad in California

British actor Sam Gannon, who appeared in TV soap Emmerdale, suddenly died while traveling in the United States, his family announced.

The 31-year-old passed away while visiting relatives in California, his family said.

“The cause of death was not yet revealed, although his mother told the BBC her son had suffered from a heart condition from birth which had “reared its ugly head” recently,” Deadline stated.

In addition to playing Kev in the popular soap in 2019, the actor appeared in TV series Tales of Bacon, and the film Babes with Blades.

Gannon’s death is being investigated by police but is not being treated as suspicious.

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Mirror reported:

The actor, who was known for playing Kev in the long-running series, was staying with family in California when he passed away.

Sam’s sister Amy Kelly confirmed the news and 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.’’

Close pal 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.”

The Sun noted:

Amy has now launched a JustGiving page to raise money to bring Sam back to the UK.

She said any extra funds donated would be put towards a UK charity supporting youth theatre.

The mum added: “Acting and theatre was a cause close to Sam’s heart.”

Sam leaves behind mum Angie, brothers Jason and Jordan, partner and “love of his life'” Zoe, nieces Matilda and Bethany and nephews Louis and Evan.

Per the CDC:

You must be fully vaccinated with the primary series of an accepted COVID-19 vaccine to travel to the United States by plane if you are a non-U.S. citizen, non-U.S. immigrant (not a U.S. citizen, U.S. national, lawful permanent resident, or traveling to the United States on an immigrant visa). Only limited exceptions apply.