Chris Gauthier, 'Once Upon a Time' and 'Eureka' actor, dies at 48 (original) (raw)
Chris Gauthier, the Canadian actor known for roles in Eureka, Smallville, and Once Upon a Time, died on Feb. 23 after battling a brief illness. He was 48.
Reps for the actor at TriStar Appearances confirmed the news to EW, adding, “As a beloved character actor, Chris shared his talents with so many of us both on television and in film. His loss is felt not just by his fans but by those of us who were lucky enough to know him more personally. On behalf of his family, we ask for privacy during this time so that they are able to grieve properly."
Chris Gauthier in 'Smallville'.
Michael Courtney/Warner Brothers Television/Courtesy Everett Collection
Born Jan. 27, 1976, the English-born Canadian actor went on to accrue several credits across film and TV, including notable roles as Café Diem owner Vincent in Eureka, the villainous Winslow Schott (aka Toyman) in Smallville, and first mate Smee in Once Upon a Time. He also enjoyed memorable turns in Freddy vs. Jason, Watchmen, Supernatural, and A Series of Unfortunate Events.
In a statement posted to Facebook, TriStar Appearances’ Chad Colvin mourned Gauthier while honoring his varied career.
“Chris was the literal textbook definition of a character actor. You may not have known his name but you knew his face, you knew his voice, and you knew that if he was onscreen, you were in for a helluva ride,” Colvin wrote. “Whether he was standing toe-to-toe against Clark Kent on Smallville as the Toyman, tormenting Dean on Supernatural, on deck with Hook as Smee in Once Upon A Time or in guest roles in the countless other productions he was in, he ALWAYS gave it his all when the camera was rolling.”
He concluded, "Brother... I am going to miss you so much more than you'll ever imagine. I wish we could have had a bit more time together and that you understood the difference you made, not just in my life, but all those you touched. This world is a bit smaller and colder now without you in it."
Colin O’Donoghue, who shared the screen with Gauthier as _Once Upon a Time_‘s Captain Hook, also paid tribute to his former costar on social media.
“Rest in Peace Chris,” he wrote on Instagram. “Heartbroken! My love and thoughts go out to Erin and the boys! You will be missed brother! You were the real captain!!”
The ABC drama's co-showrunner Adam Horowitz added on X, “So sad to hear of the passing of Chris Gauthier. Such a kind, sweet, and talented person. You will be missed.”
Gauthier is survived by his wife Erin and his two sons, Ben and Sebastian.
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