Adam Rich | Fentanyl Overdose Death

Adam Rich was a child actor who struggled with drug abuse throughout his life and entertainment career. Unfortunately, he died of a fentanyl overdose at the age of 54.

How Adam Rich Died

According to the Los Angeles County Medical-Examiner, Rich passed away in his LA home on January 7, 2023, at the age of 54. The official cause of death was determined months later as accidental fentanyl overdose.

Danny Deraney, Rich’s publicist, later advocated for causes focused on mental health and addiction treatment.

Adam Rich’s History Of Substance Abuse

Rich began drinking and using drugs at the age of 13, later dropping out of high school as stated by CNN. In 1989, Rich experienced a drug overdose which kept him in a coma for two weeks.

According to ABC News, Rich was arrested for attempted burglary in 1991. He broke into a pharmacy in search of prescription drugs.

In 2002, he was arrested for driving under the influence.

Did Adam Rich Attend Addiction Treatment?

Rich attended rehab five times by the time he was 22. According to the New York Times, Rich began treatment for his mental illness in his early 30s.

Rich suffered from clinical depression and shared his experiences with others online, becoming a mental health advocate before passing away. 

About Adam Rich

Child star Adam Rich was born on October 12, 1968 in New York City. Rich is known for his role as the character Nicholas Bradford in the TV show Eight is Enough, which aired from 1977-1981.

Throughout the series, he portrayed the youngest son. Due to how popular the ABC sitcom became, Rich was known throughout the country as “America’s little brother.”

Actress Betty Buckley played the stepmom on the show, while actor Dick Van Patten portrayed Rich’s TV dad. Willie Aames was one of Rich’s co-stars on the show as well.

Years later, Rich would reprise his role in an Eight is Enough reunion.

Filmography

In addition to the popular show Eight is Enough, Rich continued his film and television career, eventually receiving voice acting roles such as the character Presto the Magician in Dungeons & Dragons.

Other film and TV shows which are part of Rich’s filmography consist of:

• Code Red
• The Six Million Dollar Man
• The Love Boat
• Fantasy Island
• Reel Comedy
• CHiPs
• Silver Spoons
• Baywatch

Additionally, he appeared in a cameo in the Dickie Roberts: Former Child Star American comedy film.

Recovery Is Possible

Rich’s death serves as a reminder that, although you may complete a rehab program, utilizing aftercare resources and therapy options can be beneficial for those suffering from a substance use disorder or mental health disorder.

To learn how we can help you or your family member before, during, and after treatment, please contact us today.