Former actor Adam Rich, who was most known for his star role as Nicholas Bradford in the hit television series "Eight Is Enough," has died at age 54, TMZ reported over the weekend.
A family member told TMZ that Rich died Saturday at his home in the Los Angeles area, although there was no reason given for his death. Sources added that there was no foul play involved and that someone who came to his home found Rich lifeless.
Rich played the youngest son on "Eight Is Enough" for the entirety of the show from 1977 until 1981, a role that earned Rich a VH1 listing as the 73rd greatest kid star in history. Actor Dick Van Patten played the father in the series.
Later in the 1980s, Rich left show business, saying he did not like the spotlight or being a celebrity.
He also had substance abuse problems, which resulted in a 1991 arrest after he smashed a pharmacy window in an attempt to get drugs. In addition, he had other legal issues.
Rich's publicist Danny Deraney remembered the former actor as "simply a wonderful guy," USA Today reported.
"He was kind, generous and a warrior in the fight against mental illness," Deraney tweeted. "Adam did not have an ounce of ego. He was unselfish and always looked out for those he cared about. Which is why many people who grew up with him feel a part of their childhood gone, and sad today. He really was Americas Little Brother."
Brian Freeman ✉
Brian Freeman, a Newsmax writer based in Israel, has more than three decades writing and editing about culture and politics for newspapers, online and television.
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