Remembering Gary Coleman
Actor Gary Coleman, who rose to fame at age 10 for the '80s sitcom Diff'rent Strokes, died on May 28, 2010, after suffering an epidural hematoma. He was 42. As the news spread, a number of former young actresses shared their sadness over Coleman's death via Twitter.
- From Janet Jackson, who guest-starred on Diff'rent Strokes as a youngster: "I'm at a loss for words upon learning of Gary Coleman's passing. I want to remember him as the fun, playful, adorable and affectionate man he was. He has left a lasting legacy. I know he is finally at peace."
- From Alyssa Milano (Who’s The Boss?): "Rest in peace, Gary Coleman."
- From Melissa Joan Hart (Sabrina the Teenage Witch): "RIP Gary Coleman!"
- From '90s teen starlet Eliza Dushku: "We love you Gary Coleman, thank u for Diff'rent Strokes, sir, u brought joy into my & my bros childhood... 'Watchoo talkin bout, Willis...' Bless & rest his soul."
Ironically, Coleman's famous catchphrase from Diff'rent Strokes ("Watchu talkin' 'bout, Willis?") dogged him throughout his adult life, and he despised the constant requests to repeat it. One of the more troubled former child stars in Hollywood, Coleman was never able to fully escape his past, and his tragic death now renders him unable to ever do so.