Evan Ellingson, 'CSI: Miami' and 'My Sister's Keeper' Former Child Star Dies at 35

Evan Ellingson, once a notable child star recognized for his roles in well-known film and TV productions like "My Sister's Keeper" and "CSI: Miami," sadly passed away on Sunday, November 7, 2023, at the age of 35. His dead body was discovered in his bedroom within a sober-living residence in Fontana, California, as reported by the San Bernardino County Coroner's office. The exact cause and circumstances of his passing are currently the subject of an ongoing investigation.

Who was Evan Ellingson?

Evan Ellingson was an American actor who was born on July 1, 1988, in California. He started his acting career with guest appearances on Mad TV and Titus and later became a regular on Complete Savages and CSI: Miami. He also starred in the movies Letters from Iwo Jima and My Sister’s Keeper.

Ellingson grew up in La Verne, California, with his three brothers. He loved sports and outdoor activities, such as surfing, snowboarding, skating, mountain climbing, and scuba diving. He passed away on November 6, 2023, at the age of 35.

Found Dead in His Bedroom

As confirmed by the San Bernardino County Coroner, Evan Ellingson was discovered dead in his bedroom at a residence in Fontana, California. While the cause and circumstances surrounding his passing are still being investigated, there are currently no indications of criminal activity.

According to Ellingson's father, Michael Ellingson, his son had faced previous challenges with substance abuse. However, he had shown signs of improvement in recent times and had been residing in a sober living facility.

Inside His Personal Life & Struggles

Ellingson’s personal life was full of difficulties, due to his drug addiction and mental health problems. In a 2010 interview, he admitted that he started abusing drugs a lot after his older brother, Erik Ellingson, passed away from a heroin overdose in 2006. He said that he blamed himself for his brother’s death and that he used drugs to escape from the sadness and despair. He also said that he had bipolar disorder and borderline personality disorder and that he had tried to kill himself several times.

In addition, he sought help for his issues and underwent rehab several times. He also expressed his desire to resume his acting career and said that he had some upcoming projects. However, he had no film or TV appearances since 2010, as per his IMDb profile.

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A Promising Career Cut Short

Evan Ellingson commenced his acting journey in the year 2001, making his debut appearance in the soap opera 'General Hospital.' Following that, he secured a recurring role on the Fox sitcom 'Titus' and remained part of the show's cast from 2001 to 2002.

In addition, he achieved increased recognition through his performances in the 2006 Oscar-winning war film 'Letters from Iwo Jima,' directed by Clint Eastwood, as well as the 2009 drama 'My Sister's Keeper,' which featured Cameron Diaz and Abigail Breslin in prominent roles.

In the latter film, he portrayed the character of Jesse Fitzgerald, the older brother of Breslin's character, who is battling leukemia, and the son of Diaz's character.

Besides, he had a notable presence in 18 episodes of 'CSI: Miami' spanning from 2007 to 2010, portraying the character of Kyle Harmon, who was the son of Horatio Caine and Julia Winston. His television credits also encompass appearances on 'Mad TV,' 'Bones,' and '24,' where he took on the role of Josh Bauer, the nephew of Kiefer Sutherland's iconic character Jack Bauer, during the show's sixth season.

According to his IMDb profile, his final credited role was in 2010.

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Tributes from Fans & Co-Stars

Numerous fans and colleagues of Ellingson took to social media to share their condolences and fond memories of him. Notable figures expressing their grief included David Caruso, who portrayed his father in CSI: Miami, and Sofia Vassilieva, who played his sister in My Sister's Keeper.

On Twitter, Caruso penned a heartfelt message, saying, "My heart is heavy with the news of Evan Ellingson's passing. He was a gifted and compassionate young man who brought joy to all who had the privilege of working with him. His absence will be deeply felt. Rest in peace, son."

Vassilieva shared a heartfelt message on Instagram, expressing, "Evan Ellingson was truly one of the kindest and most authentic individuals I've had the pleasure of knowing. On the set of 'My Sister's Keeper,' he felt like a brother to me, always bringing laughter and making me feel at ease. I am crushed by his absence, and my heart goes out to his loved ones. Evan, you are loved, and I cherish our memories together."

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