It’s now been confirmed that Lost Boys actor, Corey Haim, died early this morning, after an apparent prescription drug overdose. TMZ is reporting that Haim had been ill with flu-like symptoms for the past few days and collapsed shortly before 1am.
His mother then called for paramedics who arrived and spent 20 minutes on the scene trying to help him, before taking him to hospital. He was pronounced dead roughly an hour later.
The 38-year-old’s career had suffered terribly due to drug and money problems, which involved long stints in rehab, and having to declare himself bankrupt in 1997. At one point he even suffered a drug-induced stroke. He reportedly cleaned his act up in 2004 and as recently as three weeks ago said he was doing well.
Although it’s believed no illegal drugs were found in his apartment at the time of his death, his mother told authorities he’d been battling prescription drug addiction for years. Police removed four prescription bottles from his apartment, none of which were related to his current illness.
Although the cause of death is believed to be an accidental drug overdose, the police have now passed the case onto the coroner, who will establish exactly how Haim died.
The Canadian born actor first rose to fame as a child star in the likes of The Lost Boys, Lucas and Licence to Drive. He also worked extensively with Corey Feldman, appearing in eight films together and becoming known as the Two Coreys. While he had a rocky career after his early success, things seemed to be getting back on track recently with a cameo in The Lost Boys 2, as well as a role in Crank: High Voltage. He’d also completed parts in upcoming movies such as New Terminal Hotel and American Sunset.
For those who grew up in the 80s, he will be remembered very fondly.