Former child star Adam Rich, best known for playing the youngest member of the Bradford family on “Eight is Enough,” died at age 54 on Saturday.
Rich’s publicist, Danny Deraney, confirmed the actor’s death on social media. “Adam was simply a wonderful guy,” Deraney wrote to Twitter. “He was kind, generous and a warrior in the fight against mental illness.” Deraney noted Rich’s impact on those around him, as well as his adoring fans. “He was unselfish and always looked out for those he cared about, which is why many people who grew up with him feel like part of their childhood gone, and sad today. He really was America’s little brother,” Deraney wrote.
Thank you all for reaching out regarding Adam Rich.
If you knew Adam, you just loved the guy. And oh the stories he could tell.
Here is my statement: pic.twitter.com/3OITGnESuf
— Danny Deraney (@DannyDeraney) January 8, 2023
The Los Angeles County Medical Examiner-Coroner’s Office launched an investigation into Rich’s death, but the situation is not considered to be suspicious at this time. The Coroner’s office reported that Rich died in Los Angeles, but has not yet declared his official cause of death, according to KENS5.
Rich rose to fame in the 70s while playing Nichols on “Eight is Enough” for five seasons, appearing in more than 100 episodes from 1977-1981. He was celebrated for his charming personality and signature hair. He went on to appear in a number of other television shows including “Baywatch,” “Fantasy Island” and “CHiPs,” according to KENS5.
The young star also dabbled in voice acting when he voiced the character Presto in the “Dungeons and Dragons” animated program in the 80s. (RELATED: Earth, Wind & Fire Drummer Fred White Dead At 67)
ADAM RICH.
RIP MY FRIEND YOU WILL BE MISSED pic.twitter.com/YOtl1Ogssp— Todd Bridges (@ToddBridges) January 8, 2023
In his adult years, Rich suffered from severe depression that wasn’t responsive to treatment, and tried a variety of experimental cures to overcome his struggles. He had a number of drug and alcohol related run-ins with the police and attended rehab and became sober.
“If you knew Adam, you just loved the guy. And oh the stories he could tell …” Deraney wrote, as he fondly remembered Rich.