Paul Teal, an actor best known for his role on “One Tree Hill,” passed away on Friday, November 15, 2024, at a hospital in Raleigh, North Carolina.
Teal was 35 and had been battling stage 4 neuroendocrine pancreatic cancer since his diagnosis in April.
Paul Teal and Emilia Torello, posted on August 15, 2024 | Source: Instagram.com/emiliatorello
Teal’s fiancée, Emilia Torello, confirmed the news, “He was the most talented man I’ve ever met. When he set his mind to something, there was no stopping him.”
She continued, “He was the most diligent and dedicated person. I truly believed with all of my heart that he would come out the other side of this because of those traits. That’s what makes this loss even more tragic.”
Paul Teal and Emilia Torello, posted on November 22, 2023 | Source: Instagram.com/emiliatorello
Despite his illness, Teal continued working and recently completed filming for the upcoming Starz series “The Hunting Wives.”
Torello said being on set gave Teal strength during his battle with cancer.
As news of Teal’s death spreads, Bethany Joy Lenz, his co-star from “One Tree Hill,” expressed deep sorrow in an Instagram tribute, praising his uplifting presence and kind spirit.
“My heart is heavy. Paul Teal was the kind of guy who lit up a room without trying. His bright smile, infectious laugh, and kind heart made you want to be near him. He was a joy to work with in any environment and so generous,” she wrote.
Lenz’s tribute to Teal included photos of him as Noah Calhoun from their stage production of “The Notebook,” paired with the song “Sunday Train” a solo Teal recorded for the show.
Recalling their days on the musical adaptation, Lenz described him as “shy and funny” yet effortlessly commanding on stage, adding, “Wow. Like his second skin. You couldn’t take your eyes off him.”
Lenz also expressed regret for not staying in closer contact with Teal, acknowledging missed opportunities to reach out.
Reflecting on his untimely passing, she wrote, “Now at 35, he’s taken another train. He was too young to die. Far too young. I’m gutted.”
Paul Teal, looking at the sky, posted on August 15, 2024 | Source: Instagram.com/emiliatorello
Besides Lenz, Teal’s management, STW Talent Agency, Inc., also mourned his loss, on the same platform.
“He has been an important part of the STW family for over 10 years. His exceptional talent and kind spirit touched the hearts of everyone who had the privilege of knowing him. The void he leaves behind will be deeply felt,” the agency’s post read.
Meanwhile, Teal’s agent, Susan Tolar Walters, shared, “His remarkable talent, along with his gentle spirit, has left an indelible mark on all of us fortunate enough to have known him. The loss we feel in our hearts is immeasurable.”
Torello later honored Teal in a heartfelt Instagram post, calling him her “soulmate” and “soon-to-be-husband.”
She wrote, “You filled my lungs with laughter, my stomach with butterflies, and my heart with love.”
Torello shared how deeply she feels Teal’s loss, saying part of her “died” with him.
She praised his bravery during his battle with cancer and promised to honor his memory by finding joy in life, just as he fought hard to keep living.
“The world is lucky to have even had a moment with Paul Teal, and I am the luckiest person in it, because I got to call you mine. I will love you forever,” she concluded.
Born in Wilmington, North Carolina, in 1989, Teal built a versatile career across TV and film.
He appeared in series such as “George & Tammy,” “The Staircase,” “Outer Banks,” and “The Walking Dead: World Beyond.”
His film credits included “Deep Water,” “Descendants: The Rise of Red,” and “Fear Street: Part Two – 1978.”
Teal’s legacy of talent and perseverance will continue to inspire those who knew him and appreciated his work.
