TV star Paul Teal has tragically died at just 35 years old.
One Tree Hill fans are mourning the death of the actor, best known for his role as Josh in season seven of the beloved WB series.
Teal’s partner, Emilia Torello, confirmed that the star passed away on November 15 in an emotional Instagram post shared on November 17.
Torello described Teal as ‘the most thoughtful, inspiring, driven, self-disciplined, loving man,’ penning: “Paul, you were my soulmate, my soon-to-be-husband, my rock, and my future.
“You filled my lungs with laughter, my stomach with butterflies, and my heart with love. You were taken too soon, in a battle that you fought bravely without fail.
“While a part of me died with you, I promise to fight to find joy in life as hard as you fought to live every single day.”
Torello also called herself ‘the luckiest person in the world’ to have shared a life with him.
She had often shared snapshots of their lives on Instagram, celebrating milestones and small moments. From a trip to Paris in late 2023 to celebrating his 35th birthday, the pair appeared deeply in love.
Bethany Joy Lenz, Teal’s co-star on One Tree Hill, also paid tribute on social media.
She recalled casting Teal in the recurring role of Josh when she directed an episode of the series in 2010, writing: “Paul Teal was the kind of guy who lit up a room without trying.
“His bright smile, infectious laugh, and kind heart made you want to be near him.”
Lenz also reminisced about their first meeting in 2006 during a stage production of The Notebook, in which Teal’s charisma and natural talent shone through.
When given the opportunity to cast a new character for One Tree Hill, she immediately thought of Teal.
Tenz added: “With his self-effacing sense of humor and willingness to dive fully into any character, Paul was perfect for the part.”
In One Tree Hill, Teal played Josh, who had a memorable storyline that involved dating Alex (played by Jana Kramer) before coming out as gay.
His career also included roles in 2021’s Outer Banks, the 2022 thriller Deep Water starring Ben Affleck and Ana de Armas, and various other television and film projects.
News of Teal’s death has shocked fans and friends alike, as his vibrant personality and dedication to his craft left a lasting impression on all who knew him.
Torello revealed that the star’s passing follows a brave battle of health challenges.
According to TMZ, Teal was diagnosed with stage 4 pancreatic neuroendocrine cancer in April.
Pancreatic neuroendocrine cancer is a rare type of pancreatic cancer that forms in the hormone-producing cells of the pancreas, per the National Cancer Institute.
