Blake Garrett, a former child actor best known for his role in the 2006 film "How to Eat Fried Worms," has died at the age of 33.
His mother, Carol Garrett, confirmed the death to media outlets, stating that he passed away on Sunday, February 8, 2026, in Oklahoma. The family is awaiting autopsy results to determine the official cause of death.
Garrett had recently visited an emergency room in Oklahoma due to severe pain and was diagnosed with shingles, a viral infection. His mother expressed concerns that he may have self-medicated to manage the pain, potentially leading to a tragic accident.
Details of Blake Garrett's Death
Blake Garrett died in Tulsa, Oklahoma, where he had been residing for the past three years. The incident occurred on February 8, 2026, following a hospital visit the previous week.
According to reports, Garrett sought medical attention for intense pain and received a diagnosis of shingles. Shingles is a painful rash caused by the varicella-zoster virus, the same virus responsible for chickenpox.
The official cause of death remains undetermined pending the medical examiner's autopsy results in Oklahoma.
Health Issues Leading to the Incident
Garrett's health challenges came to light shortly before his death. He experienced severe pain that prompted an emergency room visit in Oklahoma.
His mother told reporters that the shingles diagnosis involved significant discomfort, and she fears self-medication may have played a role. This has sparked discussions on social media about access to pain management amid opiate restrictions in the U.S., though such links are speculative and not confirmed.
Garrett had been sober for three years prior to his death, having turned his life around and maintained a positive outlook in Tulsa.
Who Was Blake Garrett?
Blake Garrett was born in Austin, Texas, and began his acting career as a child. He gained recognition for portraying Plug, a sidekick to the bully, in the family comedy "How to Eat Fried Worms," based on the popular children's book by Thomas Rockwell.
The film, released in 2006, featured an ensemble cast including Luke Benward, Hallie Eisenberg, and Adam Hicks. Garrett's performance contributed to the cast winning a Young Artist Award for Best Young Ensemble in a Feature Film.
Before his breakout role, Garrett appeared in local theater productions such as "Aladdin and His Magical Lamp" and "Peanuts: A Charlie Brown Tribute." At age 10, he toured internationally with "Barney’s Colorful World Live!"
Family Statement and Response
Carol Garrett, Blake's mother, shared details of his passing with multiple outlets, emphasizing the family's grief and the wait for autopsy findings.
She described her son as having lived a fulfilling life in recent years, focused on sobriety and personal growth in Tulsa. No other family members have publicly commented at this time.
The news has prompted tributes from fans and former co-stars on social media, remembering Garrett's contributions to children's entertainment.
Why Blake Garrett's Death Matters
The sudden death of Blake Garrett at 33 highlights the vulnerabilities faced by former child actors, including health challenges and the pressures of early fame.
It also draws attention to shingles as a serious condition that can affect younger adults, particularly those with weakened immune systems or past chickenpox infections. Public discussions have emerged regarding pain management options and the potential risks of self-medication in the context of U.S. opiate regulations, though experts caution against drawing conclusions without autopsy results.
Garrett's story serves as a reminder of the opioid crisis's broader impact, where restrictions aimed at curbing abuse may inadvertently affect access to legitimate pain relief, according to some observers. However, any direct link in this case remains unconfirmed and speculative.
Career Highlights and Legacy
Garrett's most notable role was in "How to Eat Fried Worms," a film that grossed over $13 million domestically and became a staple for family audiences. The movie adapted a beloved 1973 novel and emphasized themes of friendship, bullying, and overcoming fears.
Beyond film, Garrett's early work in theater and live tours showcased his talent from a young age. He stepped away from acting in adulthood, focusing on personal life in Oklahoma.
Fans remember him for bringing humor and relatability to his characters, contributing to a generation's childhood memories.
What Happens Next in the Investigation
The Oklahoma medical examiner's office is conducting an autopsy to establish the precise cause of Blake Garrett's death. Results are expected in the coming weeks, depending on toxicology tests.
Family members have indicated they will share updates once available. No funeral arrangements have been announced publicly.
Authorities have not indicated any foul play, treating the case as a medical incident.
This developing story underscores ongoing concerns about health care access and the hidden struggles of public figures. Updates will follow as more information emerges from official sources.
0 Comments