We now know what caused Nelsan Ellis‘ untimely death.
As we previously reported, the True Blood star passed away on Saturday due to heart failure. He was only 39.
Since Ellis was relatively young at the time of his passing, many wondered what brought on the Juilliard alum’s heart problems. Thankfully, Nelsan’s family has chosen to open up about the late actor’s health as they’ve given Ellis’ manager, Emily Gerson Saines, to release the exact circumstances around The Butler performer’s death.
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In a statement to The Hollywood Reporter, Saines confirmed via the Ellis family that Nelsan struggled with drug and alcohol abuse for years. Nelsan’s loved ones explained:
“Nelsan’s father has bravely agreed for me to share the circumstances of Nelsan’s heart failure. Nelsan has suffered with drug and alcohol abuse for years. After many stints in rehab, Nelsan attempted to withdraw from alcohol on his own. According to his father, during his withdrawal from alcohol he had a blood infection, his kidneys shut down, his liver was swollen, his blood pressure plummeted, and his dear sweet heart raced out of control.
On the morning of Saturday July 8th, after four days in Woodhull Hospital, Nelsan was pronounced dead. Nelsan was a gentle, generous and kind soul. He was a father, a son, a grandson, a brother, a nephew, and a great friend to those that were lucky enough to know him. Nelsan was ashamed of his addiction and thus was reluctant to talk about it during his life. His family, however, believes that in death he would want his life to serve as a cautionary tale in an attempt to help others.”
What a sad situation. Our hearts are just breaking for those affected by Ellis’ death.
Rest in peace, Nelsan.
[Image via PNP/WENN.]
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