Ed Gale was under investigation for alleged child sex solicitation. Photo / Getty Images
Ed Gale was under investigation for alleged child sex solicitation. Photo / Getty Images
United States actor Ed Gale has died suddenly, aged 61.
The actor – best known for portraying murderous doll Chucky in the Child’s Play horror franchise, died while under investigation for alleged attempts to solicit sex from minors, it emerged on Wednesday.
His family said in a statement: “Itis with a heavy heart and a surprisingly light coffin (see what I did there?) that we announce the sudden passing of our uncle.
“Ed Gale has taken his final bow and is now headlining in the afterlife.”
Authorities in Los Angeles had launched an inquiry into scandalous claims against the actor, with the Los Angeles Times reporting Gale had admitted to engaging in sexually explicit conversations with someone he believed to be a teenage boy and had attempted to arrange a meeting.
“He lit up the silver screens in cult classic films like Howard the Duck and Chopper Chicks in Zombietown, earning himself some serious street cred at every con he attended. Which he never stopped bragging about. Ever.”
Gale’s breakout role came in 1986 when he played the titular character in the cult film Howard the Duck.
Two years later, he was cast as the physical performer for Chucky in the 1988 film Child’s Play, a role he reprised in sequels over the next decade.
He became known for his work across more than 130 film, television and commercial credits, often appearing in science fiction and horror genres.
Known for roles in cult classics and his devoted fanbase, Ed Gale’s unexpected death has shocked the horror community. Photo / Getty Images
In addition to Child’s Play, Gale gained a loyal following for his performances in films such as Chopper Chicks in Zombietown, and his presence at fan conventions became a regular part of his public life.
Before his death, the Los Angeles Times reported police had begun an investigation after allegations that the actor had communicated sexually with people he believed to be underage.
The report stated Gale had admitted to the accusations during questioning.
No further details have been released regarding the circumstances of his death.
