Paul Danan's tragic final months before lonely death laid bare at inquest

The heartbreaking final year of Paul Danan's life was laid bare at his inquest today. The former actor tragically died aged 46 on January 15 this year and was in Bristol.

An inquest at Avon Coroner's Court heard how , who was once known to millions as Sol Patrick on the Channel 4 soap opera, had repeatedly sought advice from his GP due to his struggles. The court also heard how friends of the late star became increasingly concerned after not hearing from him in days before making the tragic discovery.

Desperate friends used a ladder to look through an open window at his home and saw Paul, dead, sitting on the edge of his sofa with the TV still on.

In May 2024, eight months before his death, a GP received a letter stating that Paul had previously suffered from a non-intentional overdose and was admitted to an intensive care unit for treatment. Upon being discharged, he was given a plan to use methadone.

However, he often relapsed and used crack cocaine as well as heroin. Struggling Paul said he had no desire to end his life, and his overdose was a near-fatal accident. After being discharged, the actor moved in with his parents for support while attempting to overcome his addictions.

Two months after his overdose, he told his GP that he'd had "suicidal ideation" but had no plans to act on these. He was subsequently placed under psychological care in the community. He also asked to be signed off work as he was too unwell to carry on working.

Paul's neighbour, Melissa Crooks, was the last person to see him two days before he died. He had not checked his WhatsApp since the time she left her flat prompting concern.

Paul's mum, Beverley Danan, paid tribute to her son saying: "Paul helped so many people from all walks of life but just could not help himself in the same way." She added: "His smiling face and love for life will always be remembered."

At the time of his death, Coroner's officer Alexis Camp said: "The circumstances are that ."

She added: "Emergency services attended and confirmed he had sadly died. A post-mortem has taken place, and samples have been removed for further analysis. No note was left."

A court had previously heard that Danan's provisional cause of death was the combined toxicity of heroin, methadone, codeine, cocaine, zopiclone and pregabalin, contributed to by benzodiazepine use. In October last year, five months after his overdose, Paul was accused of driving while under the influence of drugs in Warrington, Cheshire.

He was due to appear at a plea hearing at Warrington Magistrates' Court the day after his death and was being charged with possession of cocaine and cannabis, according to court documents. Speaking openly about his struggles in 2019 on The Jeremy Kyle Show, he said he started using substances as a teenager.

In 2010, he had pleaded guilty to drugs and public disorder offences and was fined £350 and referred to a drugs agency for support by Stevenage Magistrates' Court.

Coroner Debbie Rrooked recorded a conclusion of misadventure at his inquest today. She told the coroner's court in Bristol: "I do not have any evidence before me that Paul planned to take his own life."

*If you're struggling and need to talk, the Samaritans operate a free helpline open 24/7 on 116 123. Alternatively, you can email or visit their site to find your local branch

Frank offers confidential advice about drugs and addiction (email , message 82111 or call 0300 123 6600) or the NHS has information about getting help.