Blake Garrett, the former child star celebrated for his role in the 2006 family comedy *How to Eat Fried Worms*, has died at the young age of 33. His mother, Carol Garrett, shared the heartbreaking news with TMZ, revealing that he passed away on Sunday, February 8. The family is currently awaiting autopsy results to establish the cause of his untimely death, which follows a recent hospital visit after he experienced severe pain.
A Promising Start
Born in Austin, Texas, Garrett’s journey into the world of performance began at just eight years old. His early career included standout roles in local theatre productions, where he captivated audiences as a magician in *Aladdin and his Magical Lamp* and as Charlie Brown in *Peanuts: A Charlie Brown Tribute*. His talent extended to classic musicals such as *The Wizard of Oz*, *Annie*, and *Grease*, showcasing a diverse range of skills early on.
At the age of ten, Garrett joined the touring production of *Barney’s Colorful World*, which saw him travel across the United States, performing in arenas from 2003 to 2004. This experience laid the groundwork for his breakthrough role in *How to Eat Fried Worms*, where he played Plug, a sidekick to the film’s main bully, Joe Guire, portrayed by Adam Hicks.
How to Eat Fried Worms
*How to Eat Fried Worms* follows the story of a boy named Billy, played by Luke Benward, who must confront the challenges of a new school and a particularly cruel bully. In recognition of his performance, Garrett shared a Young Artist Award for Best Young Ensemble in a Feature Film with his co-stars in 2007. The movie, based on Thomas Rockwell’s beloved children’s book, featured a notable cast, including James Rebhorn, Kimberly Williams-Paisley, and Tom Cavanagh.
Reflecting on his time filming, Garrett once told *The Oklahoman* that he learned valuable skills, including a memorable 360-degree bicycle stunt. He recalled the excitement of picking out his bicycle for the film and the thrill of performing stunts that would make it onto the big screen.
A Life Cut Short
Despite his early acclaim, Garrett’s acting career did not continue into adulthood. Reports indicate that he had found contentment in recent years, living a fulfilling life in Tulsa, Oklahoma. His mother expressed that he had been “living a really good life,” emphasizing the tragic nature of his unexpected passing.
The circumstances surrounding his death include a visit to the emergency room due to severe pain, where he was diagnosed with shingles—a viral infection known for causing painful rashes. Carol Garrett suggested that her son may have attempted to self-medicate to alleviate his discomfort, leading to the unfortunate tragedy that unfolded.
Why it Matters
Blake Garrett’s story is a poignant reminder of the fragility of life and the often-unseen battles individuals face. As a beloved child actor who brought joy to many through his performances, his untimely death serves as a wake-up call about the importance of mental health and the need for support during challenging times. The entertainment industry mourns a bright star whose legacy will endure through the laughter and memories he created on screen.