The family of Nelsan Ellis has opened up on what truly sent the versatile actor to the world beyond. Nelsan Ellis who was known for his incredible per
The family of Nelsan Ellis has opened up on what truly sent the versatile actor to the world beyond. Nelsan Ellis who was known for his incredible performance in HBO’s ‘True Blood’ and James Brown’s biopic, was said to have battled alcohol and drug addiction for years.
Now, his family is opening up for the first time since his death on the true circumstances surrounding his death to Hollywood Reporter, in an effort to help others who may be struggling with the same addictions that afflicted Ellis.
According to the family, the shocking death of the 39 year old on Saturday was from heart failure. “After many stints in rehab, Nelsan Ellis attempted to withdraw from alcohol on his own. According to his father, during his withdrawal from alcohol he had a blood infection, his kidneys shut down, his liver was swollen, his blood pressure plummeted, and his heart raced out of control.
“On the morning of Saturday July 8th, after four days in Woodhull Hospital, Nelsan Ellis was pronounced dead. Nelsan was a gentle, generous and kind soul to those that were lucky enough to know him. He was ashamed of his addiction and thus was reluctant to talk about it during his life. His family, however, believes that in death he would want his life to serve as a cautionary tale in an attempt to help others.”
Born in Harvey, Illinois. He attended Thorn Ridge High School in Dolton, and later attended Oxford University and Columbia College in Chicago before graduating from the famed Juilliard School. Nelson appeared in numerous films and TV shows, including The Soloist, The Butler, Get on Up, a James Brown biopic and Elementary.His character on ‘True Blood’ was loved by most.
Nelsan Ellis is survived by his grandmother Alex Brown, his father, Tommie Lee Thompson and his son, Breon Ellis.
