Hollyoaks star and reality TV regular Paul Danan tragically died this week, with the 46-year-old actor leaving behind his nine-year-old son and a “devastated” family

A crowdfunder set up to help Paul Danan’s nine-year-old son DeNiro has reached just £3,000, following the Hollyoaks star’s sudden death this week.

The tragic news was announced this week, with the 46-year-old’s management confirming the Celebs Go Dating star’s “untimely departure” after he “slipped and fell” at a luxury apartment in Bristol. Paul left behind his son DeNiro, nine, with his friends setting up a Go Fund Me page to make his “journey a little bit easier” following his dad’s death.

They described their “unique” friend as the most “extra” person, adding that his family have been left “devastated”, and say they hope to raise £10,000. The tribute on the page reads: “There was NO ONE like Pauly. His excitement and vitality for life were magnetic. He was warm, kind, funny – actually hilarious, vulnerable, self-deprecating and captivating.

“Being his friend was a visceral experience, and I defy anyone to close their eyes and picture Pauly with anything but that huge, cheeky, dimpled smile. NEVER one to conform or do anything in an expected or generic way, Paul really was the most ‘Extra’ and unique person you could ever meet.”

Paul Danan left behind his son DeNiro ( 
Image:
Paul Danan/Instagram)

As well as Hollyoaks, Paul appeared on Celebrity Big Brother, Celebs Go Dating and Celebrity Love Island ( 
Image:
WireImage)

Touching on Paul’s well-documented issues with addiction, they continued: “It’s no secret that he struggled and lost his way at times, but in his true essence, the REAL Pauly, would do anything for anyone no matter what. Whether you knew him from school, Hollyoaks, Love Island, CBB, his rehab journey, or you were just lucky enough to cross paths, he’s sure to have left a gaping Pauly-shaped hole in your heart right now. But he has also left behind a 9 year-old son – DeNiro, and a devastated family.”

The description signed off: “This page has been set up in Paul’s memory, to make his son’s journey a little bit easier. Please give what you can xxx”

Various tributes have been left with donations from those who knew the actor. One read: “Dear friend, We went to school together, had 2 successful schools together. Did a film together. Even lived together. You said you hoped Deniro would be just like my boys. He will. Love you kiddo.”

Another donor wrote to DeNiro: “Your dad gave me so many laughs, the world will be a worse place without him x”. A third, claiming to be Sadie Frost, who has a son called Rafferty, donated £30, and wrote: “Oh Pauly .. I am so sad .. I loved you very much and so did Raff who always valued your friendship -big kisses forever and rest in peace my love.”

The news of Paul’s passing was announced on Thursday (16th January), with his manager releasing a statement. It read: “It is with heavy hearts that we share the tragic news of the passing of @pauldanan at just 46 years old.

“Known for his television presence, exceptional talent, and unwavering kindness, Paul was a beacon of light to so many. His untimely departure will leave irreplaceable voids in the lives of all who knew him.

“During this difficult time, we kindly request respect and privacy for Paul’s family, friends, and colleagues. No further comments will be made at this time.”

Donations can be made to Paul Danan’s Go Fund Me page here.

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