Actor Chris Gauthier, who played Smee on the Disney mashup drama Once Upon a Time, has died.
A representative from Gauthier’s talent agency, TriStar Appearances/Event Horizon Talent, confirmed his passing in a statement, which read: "We can confirm that our dear friend and client, Chris Gauthier, passed away on Friday morning, February 23, at the age of 48.
"As a beloved Vancouver-based character actor, Chris shared his talents with so many of us both on television and in film. His loss is felt not just by his fans but by those of us who were lucky enough to know him more personally. On behalf of his family, we do ask for privacy during this time so that they are able to grieve properly."
Born in Luton, England, Gauthier moved with his family to Vancouver, Canada when he was five.
In addition to playing Captain Hook’s loyal first mate William Smee in Once Upon a Time, he was best-known for playing Neville in Need for Speed: Carbon.
He also starred as Shack in Freddy Vs Jackson, Ronald Reznick in Supernatural and Phil in A Series of Unfortunate Events. He also had starring roles in Legends of Tomorrow, Sanctuary and, most recently, Joe Pickett.
Some of his former co-stars took to social media to pay tribute following the news of his death.
Colin O’Donoghue, who played Captain Killian ‘Hook’ Jones in Once Upon a Time wrote said he was “heartbroken” on Instagram.
“Rest in Peace Chris! Heartbroken! My love and thoughts go out to Erin and the boys! You will be missed brother! You were the real captain!!” he wrote alongside a behind the scenes picture of them on set.
So sad to hear of the passing of Chris Gauthier. Such a kind, sweet, and talented person. You will be missed. pic.twitter.com/sqoTmkFxur
— Adam Horowitz (@AdamHorowitzLA) February 25, 2024
Co-showrunner Adam Horowitz added via social media platform X, formerly known as Twitter: “So sad to hear of the passing of Chris Gauthier. Such a kind, sweet, and talented person. You will be missed.”
