Paul Danan was a British actor and television personality best known for his role as Sol Patrick in the Channel 4 soap opera Hollyoaks. His career spanned over two decades, during which he appeared in various television shows, films, and reality programs. This article provides an overview of his film and television work, highlighting his most notable roles and appearances.
Film
| Title | Type | Role | Year(s) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hollyoaks | TV Series | Sol Patrick | 1997–2001 |
| Celebrity Love Island | Reality TV | Himself | 2005, 2006 |
| The Queen’s Nose | TV Series | Max Mitford | 2003 |
| Daddy’s Girl | TV Movie | Nathan | 2002 |
| The Kevin Bishop Show | TV Sketch Show | Various (Guest) | 2009 |
| Stars and Strikes | TV Show | Co-host | 2010–2011 |
| Crime Stories | TV Drama | Guest Role | 2012 |
| Celebrity Big Brother | Reality TV | Himself | 2017 |
| Amoc | Film | DCI Collins | 2017 |
| Are We Dead Yet | Film | Gavin | 2019 |
| The Jeremy Kyle Show | Talk Show | Himself (Guest) | 2019 |
| Doll House | Film | Andy | 2020 |
| Celebrity Coach Trip | Reality TV | Himself | 2022 |
| The Morning After with Paul Danan | Podcast/TV | Host | Kings of Leon A Southern Rock LegacyView |
Early Life and Career
Born on July 2, 1978, in Chigwell, Essex, Paul Louis Danan was of Moroccan Jewish descent. He trained at the Italia Conti Academy of Theatre Arts, which paved the way for his acting career. Danan’s early work included appearances in television dramas and comedies, showcasing his versatility as an actor.
Notable Television Roles
Hollyoaks (1997–2001)
Danan’s most prominent role was as Sol Patrick in Hollyoaks, where he appeared from 1997 to 2001. His character was involved in intense storylines, including homelessness and troubled relationships. This role earned him recognition and a dedicated fan base.
Celebrity Love Island (2005–2006)
In 2005, Danan participated in the first series of ITV’s Celebrity Love Island, returning for the second series in 2006. His appearances on the show were marked by dramatic and headline-worthy behavior, which contributed to his public persona.
Celebrity Big Brother (2017)
Danan joined the twentieth series of Celebrity Big Brother in 2017. Although he was evicted early, he expressed hope that the series would provide him with a “second chance” at his career.
Celebrity Coach Trip (2022)
In 2022, Danan participated in the seventh series of Celebrity Coach Trip, traveling through Northern Portugal. His interactions with fellow celebrities added to the entertainment value of the show.
Television Career
- Role: Sol Patrick
- Type: Soap Opera
- Details: Paul Danan joined Hollyoaks in 1997, portraying troubled teen Sol Patrick. His character quickly became a fan favorite. Sol’s storylines dealt with homelessness, gang life, and complicated family issues. Danan left the show in 2001, but the role remains his most iconic.
The Queen’s Nose (2003)
- Role: Max Mitford
- Type: Children’s TV
- Details: Danan made a guest appearance in this CBBC show, which revolved around a magical coin that granted wishes.
Crime Stories (2012)
- Role: Guest Role
- Type: TV Crime Drama
- Details: Paul appeared in a dramatized crime series on ITV, portraying a supporting character in one of the episodes.
Film Career
Though primarily known for television, Danan also appeared in a handful of films and short projects:
| Film Title | Role | Year |
|---|---|---|
| Daddy’s Girl | Nathan | 2002 |
| Amoc | DCI Collins | 2017 |
| Are We Dead Yet? | Gavin | 2019 |
| Doll House | Andy | 2020 |
These roles showcased his versatility and allowed him to move beyond the soap and reality TV image.
Other Media and Appearances
The Kevin Bishop Show (2009)
- A sketch comedy series on Channel 4 where Danan made a cameo appearance.
Stars and Strikes (2010–2011)
- A celebrity bowling game show on 4Music, which he co-hosted.
The Morning After with Paul Danan (2019–2023)
- A podcast in which he interviewed celebrities and shared his experiences with mental health, addiction, and the entertainment industry.
Personal Life and Public Struggles
Paul Danan was open about his struggles with addiction and mental health. He entered rehab multiple times and became an advocate for greater care for reality TV contestants. His candidness earned him respect from fans and mental health campaigners.
Death and Legacy
Paul Danan passed away on January 15, 2025, at the age of 46. A coroner’s report concluded that his death was due to a combination of prescription and illicit drugs, ruled as misadventure. His death sparked renewed discussion about the pressure of fame and the responsibilities of the entertainment industry toward former stars.
Legacy
Though his career had ups and downs, Paul Danan remains a memorable figure in British television history. From teen soap fame to outspoken reality star and mental health advocate, Danan’s journey was as complex as it was compelling.
Net Worth
As of 2025, Paul Danan’s estimated net worth was approximately $5 million. His income sources included:
- Television and Film Acting: Earnings from his roles in various TV shows and films.
- Reality TV Appearances: Participation in reality television programs.
- Podcasting and Hosting: Income from hosting The Morning After With Paul Danan and other appearances.
- Endorsements and Sponsorships: Partnerships with brands and companies.
Despite facing personal challenges and financial difficulties due to his rehab treatments and legal issues, Danan maintained a steady income from his various ventures.
Personal Life and Legacy
Off-screen, Danan was known for his high-profile relationships and advocacy for mental health. He was candid about his struggles with addiction, attending rehab multiple times, and was critical of reality TV’s treatment of vulnerable individuals. He also ran a successful theatre company and hosted a podcast.
Tragically, Paul Danan passed away on January 15, 2025, at the age of 46. An inquest revealed that he died from a combination of prescribed and illicit drugs, and the death was ruled as misadventure.
Reality Television and Other Appearances
Beyond acting, Danan appeared in various reality television programs and made guest appearances on several shows:
- The Kevin Bishop Show (2009) – Appeared in the Channel 4 sketch show.
- Stars and Strikes (2010–2011) – Co-hosted this 4Music series.
- Crime Stories (2012) – Appeared in an episode of this ITV drama.
- The Jeremy Kyle Show (2019) – Discussed his substance addiction on this ITV talk show.
- The Morning After With Paul Danan (2019–2023) – Hosted this podcast, which ran for several years.
Conclusion
Paul Danan’s career was marked by his dynamic roles in television and film, as well as his candidness about personal challenges. His contributions to the entertainment industry and his advocacy for mental health have left a lasting impact on both his fans and colleagues.