‘One Tree Hill’ actor Paul Teal dies at 35

WASHINGTON — Actor Paul Teal, who had a recurring role on “One Tree Hill,” has died. He was 35. 

Emilia Torello, the actor’s partner, confirmed that Teal died on Friday in a social media post. The 35-year-old actor died after a battle with cancer, multiple media outlets reported Monday. 

“The most thoughtful, inspiring, driven, self-disciplined, loving man passed away on Friday, November 15, 2024.,” Torello, who is also an actor, said on Instagram. “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 that you fought bravely without fail.”

“While a part of me died with you, I promise to fight to find joy in life as hard as you fought to live every single day,” Torello continued before adding. “The world is lucky to have even had a moment with Paul Teal, and I am the luckiest person in it, because I got to call you mine. I will love you forever.” 

Teal had a recurring role on “One Tree Hill,” portraying the role of Josh Avery for seven episodes. The 35-year-old actor also had credits on “Outer Banks,” “Dynasty,” “The Walking Dead: World Beyond” and more. According to his IMDB, Teal’s final credit was in the 2024 film “Lilly.”

“One Tree Hill” star Bethany Joy Lenz paid tribute to her fellow co-star late Sunday. 

“I worked closely with Paul for months when he played Noah in my and @ronaniello musical production of The Notebook in 2006.” Lenz said. “Later, I was giddy to be directing an episode of One Tree Hill where I’d get to cast a new recurring character, Josh- the sleazy movie star. With his self-effacing sense of humor and willingness to dive fully into any character, Paul was perfect for the part.”

“We stayed in touch on and off. I wish it had been more. I wish I’d called all those times I meant to but got distracted. Life is short. I keep thinking that this week,” Lenz added. “Life is short.”