Gary Coleman: His Life, Career, And Cause Of Death

Born on February 8, 1968, in Zion, Illinois, Gary Coleman was anything but ordinary. Standing at just 4 feet 8 inches tall due to a congenital kidney disease, he often joked that he was a “human coffee table” — a witty remark that would set the tone for much of his life. With a talent for comedy and acting, Coleman got his big break when he landed the role of "Arnold Jackson" in 1978.

The show became a cultural phenomenon, and suddenly, little Gary was everywhere, delivering iconic lines like “What'chu talkin' 'bout, Willis?” to his older brother, played by the equally iconic Todd Bridges. It became one of the staples of his generation, and that little line alone made him a household name.

Despite the show's success, Gary’s life wasn’t all rainbows and sitcoms. The childhood star faced significant financial struggles later in life due to mismanagement of his earnings. He was famously quoted saying, “I have more money than I know what to do with. Which is why I’m in this financial mess!” Talk about a plot twist! You’d think a kid who starred in one of the biggest shows of the 1980s would have it made, but as the saying goes, “You can’t put a price on a good punchline.”

After ‘Diff’rent Strokes’ wrapped up in 1986, Gary found himself in a bit of a comedic conundrum. With the sitcom world behind him, he tried various roles that showcased his unique brand of humor. From guest appearances on shows like ‘The Simpsons’ — where he voiced himself in a cameo — to his unforgettable role as “the kid who never aged” in countless parodies, Coleman remained a beloved figure in pop culture.

He even ventured into the world of reality television, appearing in shows like ‘Celebrity Boxing’ and ‘The Surreal Life’. Who could forget the time he famously boxed against “the guy who was known for wearing a giant suit”? The match was a classic case of “size doesn’t matter,” as it was more about the comedy than the competition. Coleman later joked, “I lost that fight, but gained a ton of followers — it was like winning in reverse!”

And then there were the unexpected moments. Like when he was arrested in 1998 for a domestic dispute. The headline read, “Gary Coleman in a Dispute: What'chu talkin' 'bout, Domestic?” Even in the face of trouble, Coleman maintained his sense of humor, later stating, “The only thing I’m guilty of is being too fabulous!”

Gary Coleman’s life took a turn for the serious when he faced ongoing health issues related to his kidney disease, which had plagued him since childhood. After undergoing several surgeries and facing significant health challenges, he ultimately passed away on May 28, 2010, at the age of 42. His cause of death was determined to be a brain hemorrhage, a sudden and tragic ending for a man who brought joy and laughter to so many.

In his last years, Coleman had often expressed a desire to be remembered not just for his iconic catchphrases, but for his resilience and ability to make people laugh, even in tough times. “Laughter is the best medicine,” he famously quipped, “but I’m still waiting for my prescription!”

Though Gary Coleman’s life was filled with ups and downs, his legacy as a comedic icon endures. His catchphrases have become ingrained in popular culture, and he remains a beloved figure for those who grew up watching ‘Diff’rent Strokes’. In a world that can often feel overwhelming, Coleman’s humor serves as a reminder that laughter is a powerful force, capable of bringing light even in the darkest of times.

He even ventured into the world of reality television, appearing in shows like ‘Celebrity Boxing’ and ‘The Surreal Life’. Who could forget the time he famously boxed against “the guy who was known for wearing a giant suit”? The match was a classic case of “size doesn’t matter,” as it was more about the comedy than the competition. Coleman later joked, “I lost that fight, but gained a ton of followers — it was like winning in reverse!”