'One Tree Hill' star Paul Teal dies at 35 as co-stars Sophia Bush and Bethany Joy Lenz lead tributes

RALEIGH, NORTH CAROLINA: Television and stage actor Paul Teal, best known for his role as Josh on 'One Tree Hill', tragically died at 35 on Friday, November 15. 

His death was confirmed by his fiancee Emilia Torello, and his representative, who revealed that the cause was pancreatic cancer. Torello also shared that Teal, who was born in 1989, had been diagnosed with stage 4 pancreatic cancer in April. 

In the wake of his death, co-stars from 'One Tree Hill', including Bethany Joy Lenz and Sophia Bush, took to social media to honor and remember the actor, celebrating his life and legacy.

Paul Teal’s agent and fiancee confirm actor’s death

Paul Teal’s death was confirmed by his agent, who expressed the news with deep sorrow, saying, "With heartfelt sorrow, we share the news of the passing of our beloved actor and friend, Paul Teal. He has been an important part of the STW family for over 10 years. His exceptional talent and kind spirit touched the hearts of everyone who had the privilege of knowing him. The void he leaves behind will be deeply felt." 

The agent concluded with a heartfelt tribute: "Rest in peace, dear friend. You will be missed," as per Fox News.

Teal’s fiancee, Emilia Rorello, also shared her grief, describing him as "the most thoughtful, inspiring, driven, self-disciplined, loving man" who died on Friday.

In an emotional post, Rorello shared a black-and-white photo of herself kissing Teal on the cheek, reflecting on their deep bond: "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."

Rorello further expressed her heartbreak, writing, "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." 

She went on to say that she felt incredibly lucky to have been loved by him, adding, "The world is lucky to have even had a moment with Paul Teal, and I am the luckiest person in it, because I got to call you mine. I will love you forever."

Paul Teal, who portrayed Josh Avery in Season 7 of the hit teen drama 'One Tree Hill' in 2010, was known for his role as the love interest of Jana Kramer's character, Alex Dupre. Later in the storyline, it was revealed that Josh's character was gay.

Paul Teal’s co-stars pay tribute to actor 

Paul Teal’s co-star Bethany Joy Lenz, who played Haley James throughout all nine seasons of 'One Tree Hill', paid a heartfelt tribute to Paul Teal. She shared, "My heart is heavy. 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 went on to reflect on their time working together: "I worked closely with paul for months when he played Noah in my and @onaniello musical production of the Notebook in 2006. He was shy and funny and so so comfortable on stage." 

She continued, "Later, I was giddy to be directing an episode of One Tree Hill where I’d get to cast a new recurring character, Josh — the sleazy movie star. With his self-effacing sense of humor and willingness to dive fully into any character, Paul was perfect for the part. He was a joy to work with in any environment and so generous."

She then added a poignant message: "We stayed in touch on and off. I wish it had been more. I wish I’d called all those times I meant to but got distracted. Life is short. I keep thinking that this week. Life is short."

Lenz, who shared a collection of photos of Teal alongside her tribute, also included a heartfelt video in her post, "Here is a video of the few photos I have on my hard drive of Paul as the iconic Noah Calhoun in our little black box production. And the song is ‘Sunday Train’, Noah’s big solo, which we recorded that year with Paul singing. Now at 35, he’s taken another train. He was too young to die. Far too young. I’m gutted."

Sophia Bush, another 'One Tree Hill' co-star, also shared a tribute on her Instagram story, saying, "Incredibly saddened to hear about the passing of Paul Teal. We are just starting to watch his OTH episodes on [her Drama Queens rewatch podcast] and he's such a talent," accompanied by a string of broken heart emojis.

After his co-stars' tribute, many fans also came forward to share their messages of remembrance on Emilia's post, with one fan saying, “I'm so sorry for your loss, Emilia. Paul was incredibly lucky to have you in his life, and I'm sure he was a wonderful soul. I love you so much, and I will be praying for you.”

One said, “You honored his fight in the most beautiful ways. You were his everything, and he yours. He will always be with us, he will always be part of our 6. You are so strong, just like him.”

Another added, “Sending you so much love and support. Paul and I were friends since I was in the 5th grade... I'm so sad I never got to see y'all's magic together, but I know it must be quite an amazing experience to witness from what I am reading here in these comments. Thinking of you and praying the best for both of you and your families. ♥️♥️🙏.”

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