Died at 35: “One Tree Hill” colleagues pay tribute to Paul Teal

After the early death of “One Tree Hill” actor Paul Teal (1989-2024) from cancer, former colleagues have spoken out. Among others, Sophia Bush (42) and Jana Kramer (40) paid tribute to the star, who died shortly before his wedding at the age of just 35.

Paul Teal, who portrayed Josh Avery in the popular series’ seventh season in 2009, died on November 15 after his battle with pancreatic cancer. His fiancée Emilia Torello announced the heartbreaking news on Sunday, sparking an outpouring of condolences from his fellow actors.

“Sending love and prayers to @paulteal family and friends,” Jana Kramer wrote alongside a shared photo. She played his girlfriend Alex in the series. “I had the absolute pleasure of working with him on Season 7 of OTH. He was always so nice and so much fun to work with.” The actress also called on One Tree Hill fans to support Teal’s loved ones, adding, “Please pray for his family and friends.”

Sophia Bush, who played popular high school student Brooke Davis, also expressed her heartfelt condolences on social media and paid tribute to her late co-star. “Incredibly sad to hear of the passing of Paul Teal,” she wrote on November 18. Referring to her podcast “Drama Queens” with her “One Tree Hill” co-stars Hilarie Burton Morgan (42) and Bethany Joy Lenz (43), she added: “We’re just starting his OTH episodes on @dramaqueensoth “Look at him and he’s so talented.”

Bethany Joy Lenz – who played Haley James Scott on the series – posted a lengthy obituary in which she said she was “devastated” by the loss. “My heart is heavy. Paul Teal was the guy who lit up a room effortlessly. His bright smile, infectious laugh and kind heart made you want to be near him.” Before the series, she had already worked closely with him on a musical production for months. “He was shy and funny and so comfortable on stage. Wow. Like his second skin. You couldn’t take your eyes off him.”

In “One Tree Hill” he was the ideal choice for the role of the sleazy film star. “With his humble sense of humor and willingness to fully immerse himself in any character, Paul was perfect for the role. He was a joy to work with in any environment and was so generous.” She wished she had kept in touch with him more after that. “I wish I had called all the times I meant to but got distracted. Life is short. I keep thinking that this week. Life is short.”

The series “One Tree Hill” ran for nine seasons starting in 2003. Paul Teal made his first appearance as an actor in a television production there. He was also seen in two episodes of “Outer Banks” in 2021 and played Deputy Clark in the film “Deep Water” (2022) with Ben Affleck (52). He was also an accomplished stage actor. In 2018 he received the Wilmington Theater Award for Best Supporting Actor.