Former child star Adam Rich passed away in January as a result of fentanyl, as stated in a report from the Los Angeles Medical Examiner’s office.

Adam Rich, renowned for his role on the popular ABC comedy-drama “Eight Is Enough,” was discovered deceased at the age of 54 in his Los Angeles residence on Jan. 8. The report classified Rich’s cause of death as an accident.

At the tender age of eight, Rich was cast as Nicholas Bradford in “Eight Is Enough,” where he portrayed the youngest son of widower Tom Bradford’s eight children. The television series aired for five seasons from 1977 to 1981, earning Rich the moniker of “America’s Little Brother” during his time on the show.

In addition to Rich, “Eight Is Enough” starred Dick Van Patten, Diana Hyland, Betty Buckley, Grant Goodeve, Lani O’Grady, Laurie Walters, Susan Richardson, Dianne Kay, Connie Newton, and Willie Aames.

Apart from his notable role on “Eight Is Enough,” Rich’s television credits encompassed appearances in shows such as “Dungeons & Dragons,” “Baywatch,” “Small Wonder,” “Gun Shy,” “Code Red,” and “CHiPs.” He reprised his role as Nicholas in the TV spin-off movies “Eight Is Enough: A Family Reunion” (1987) and “An Eight Is Enough Wedding” (1989).

In recent years, Rich had distanced himself from on-camera work. His last on-screen appearance was as himself in the 2003 film “Dickie Roberts: Former Child Star,” and he portrayed Crocodile Dundee in a 2003 episode of “Reel Comedy.”

Throughout his life, Rich encountered legal troubles, including an arrest for attempted burglary and driving under the influence.

Rich’s representative, Danny Deraney, announced his death through an emotional statement shared on Twitter. Deraney described Rich as a wonderful person who exhibited kindness, generosity, and resilience in his battle against mental illness.

“He really was America’s Little Brother,” Deraney continued, expressing the collective sentiment of those who grew up alongside Rich.

Following Rich’s passing, Willie Aames, who played his older brother Tommy in “Eight Is Enough,” paid tribute to his late co-star on Facebook, describing Rich as more than a colleague but rather a lifelong friend and his only little brother. Aames also praised Rich’s aspirations to revive his career in the last few years, highlighting his enduring impact as a child actor.

Betty Buckley, who portrayed Rich’s stepmother Abby in “Eight Is Enough,” honored his memory on Instagram by sharing a slideshow of photos featuring the late actor alongside herself and the show’s cast. Buckley recalled Rich’s sweetness, humor, and natural talent, expressing her shock and extending her deepest condolences to his loved ones. She emphasized Rich’s dedication to inspiring others grappling with mental and emotional illness and expressed her profound sense of loss.

Micajah

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