Sam Gannon, a musician and actor best known for his role as Kev on Emmerdale died on Tuesday, August 2, 2022, while visiting family in California.
Mr Gannon’s death is still being investigated, but his mother said he had a heart condition since birth that had “reared its ugly head” in recent months
“These things just don’t happen, especially to a young man of 31 who was having the time of his life,” his mother, Angela Gannon, said. She said news of her son’s death had left the family in “absolute, total shock”.
“He was having a great time up in the mountains, shooting tin cans and constructing horse stables. I spoke with him the last time on Monday.”
His family hopes to raise the £17,000 required to return Sam’s body from California to the UK. At the time of writing, more than £6,300 had been raised.
‘I directed Sam in a couple of projects,’ wrote Olwen May on the actor’s JustGiving page. He was a gifted young actor who brought joy to friends and audiences alike. This is a truly heartbreaking loss. My heart goes out to his family. I’m truly sorry.’