Paul Teal, One Tree Hill actor tragically passes away after battle with cancer

Paul Teal, an actor known for appearances in One Tree Hill and Deep Water, among others, has tragically died. He was 35.

Teal’s death was announced by his partner, Emilia Torello, in a heartbreaking tribute shared on social media.

Paul Teal died on Friday, November 15, 2024. His cause of death was cancer.

“The most thoughtful, inspiring, driven, self-disciplined, loving man died on Friday, November 15, 2024.”
Torello wrote in his emotional tribute: “Paul, you were my soulmate, my soon-to-be-husband, my rock and my future. You filled my lungs with laughter, my stomach with butterflies and my heart with love. You were taken too soon in a battle which you fought valiantly without fail.”

Emilia added that despite his passing taking a part of her with it, she will fight to keep some joy and live life as hard as he clung to his. Acknowledging her luck in having the right to call Teal her husband, Torello promised to love him forever.

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She concluded, “While a part of me died with you, I promise to fight to find joy in life as hard as you fought to live each and every day. The world is lucky to have even had a moment with Paul Teal, and I’m the luckiest person in that because I got to call you mine. I’ll love you forever”

Born Paul Joseph Teal, the late actor was an astonishing stage actor. A native of WilmingtonNorth Carolina, he studied at the William Esper Acting studio.

Teal “graced countless local stages with her imaginative performances and staggering talent, leaving an indelible mark on the theater community”, the Opera House Theater Company said in their own tribute. He was loved by friends, colleagues and fans alike. Affectionately called ‘JoJo’, Teal was known for complete dedication to his craft and for displaying pure charisma in his performances.

He later moved to television and had a memorable role as Josh, the ‘sleazy movie star’ in seven episodes of One Tree Hill. Director Emma Lenz, who worked with Teal on a production of ‘The Notebook’, cast him in the role and recalled his complete command of it.

“With his self-deprecating sense of humor and willingness to dive into any character, Paul was perfect for the role. He was a joy to work with in any environment and so generous,” Lenz wrote.

Teal’s other roles included The Walking Dead: World Beyond, Dynasty, Good Behavior, Psychodrama, USS Christmas, American Rust, Outer Banks and more.