David Gail Obituary – Death: ‘Port Charles’ Actor David Gail Cause Of Death Determined, Mother Speaks Out Against Fentanyl Epidemic
Port Charles actor David Gail, who passed away last month at 58, succumbed to complications related to brain and heart issues following drug intoxication involving various substances. His mother is now speaking up about the risks of pharmaceutical addiction and the fentanyl crisis.
The official cause of death was anoxic-ischemic encephalopathy, a brain injury due to lack of blood flow, following resuscitation from cardiac arrest due to drug intoxication.
“It saddens me deeply to know that my son passed away in this manner,” said Mary Painter, Gail’s mother, in a statement to Deadline. “David began relying on medication many years ago, following multiple surgeries on his hands and wrists. He endured significant pain, which hindered his ability to work for almost a decade. He struggled to break free from pharmaceuticals and eventually turned to alternative pain management methods like acupuncture and natural remedies. It’s likely that his past dependence on opioids contributed to his self-medication from unregulated sources.”
Gail was found unconscious by emergency responders who tried to revive him. Despite their efforts, he was placed on life support and remained in that state for several days until his passing on January 16.
Initially, his family believed his death was due to heart failure.
Gail grew up in Tampa, Florida, where he studied finance before entering the stock trading industry. His passion for acting led him to Los Angeles. He made his screen debut in 1990 on an episode of Growing Pains, eventually landing roles in various episodic series and a recurring role on Beverly Hills, 90210.
In 1999, he portrayed Dr. Joe Scanlon on the soap opera Port Charles, a role he held for over 200 episodes.
His television credits include The Roundtable, Savannah, Matlock, Murder, She Wrote, Doogie Howser, M.D., and Perfect Opposites. He also appeared in the film Bending All The Rules alongside Bradley Cooper.
“David’s passing highlights the many victims of pharmaceutical addiction and the fentanyl crisis,” said his mother. “Please keep David and others struggling with pain or addiction in your thoughts and prayers.”
In addition to his mother, Gail is survived by his son Guthier and sister Kathryn Gail. The family requests privacy at this time and suggests donations to the Partnership To End Addiction in lieu of flowers.
“We are deeply moved by the love shown by David’s devoted fans and colleagues,” said his mother. “We appreciate all the support received during this challenging period.”
