Tragically, renowned actor Adam Rich, who gained prominence as a young star playing the part of Nicholas Bradford on hit television show “Eight Is Enough” has passed away at the age of 54. The Los Angeles County Medical Examiner confirmed this news.
On Saturday, Rich passed away at his residence in Los Angeles according to TMZ’s report. His family chose not to disclose the cause of death.
Popularly known for his part in the classic show “Eight Is Enough,” Rich also had other television appearances and movies during the late 70s to 80s. For example, he starred on “Fantasy Island,” “CHiPs,” “Small Wonder,” as well as giving a voice role in the animated series “Dungeons & Dragons.”
After appearing in an episode of “Baywatch” back in 1993, Rich retired from the limelight for a decade before resurfacing again.
Later on, he made an appearance in the 2003 David Spade comedy “Dickie Roberts: Former Child Star,” as well as brought to life Crocodile Dundee that same year in the Reel Comedy series.
In 1991, Rich was facing legal issues for suspected burglary when his “Eight Is Enough” father figure, actor Dick Van Patten, came to the rescue and paid off his bail fee. This information is according to a report from the Los Angeles Times.
As a humorous jest on the topic of celebrity death, Rich was featured in an outlandish hoax for Might Magazine that Dave Eggers wrote in 1996. It falsely reported his passing and has become known as “Heartbreaking Work of Staggering Genius.”
In 2021, the former child star was featured in CNN’s “The History of the Sitcom” series and later took to Instagram to reflect on his successful career.
“I’m grateful for the joy felt while working on 8!…,” Rich said. “I do hope it may have brought you some joy as well.”
