Josh Ryan Evans, who memorably played the young Grinch in How the Grinch Stole Christmas, tragically died at just 20 years old in August 2002-less than two years after the film’s release.
Evans, who had achondroplasia, a form of dwarfism, stood 3ft 2in and also lived with a congenital heart condition that required multiple surgeries during his childhood. Despite those challenges, he built a promising acting career after deciding, while recovering and watching television, that he wanted to perform.
He began appearing in commercials at age 12 and made his film debut in Baby Geniuses before landing the role of the young Grinch. The part required more than five hours of makeup each day. Director Ron Howard later said the role was originally meant to be minor, but Evans’ talent convinced him to expand it.
After the film, Evans found major success on NBC’s soap opera Passions, playing Timmy Lenox-a role that earned him several awards, including a YoungStar Award.
Evans died from complications related to his heart condition during a medical procedure. In an eerie coincidence, the same day he passed away, NBC aired an episode of Passions in which his character also died. The episode had been scheduled weeks earlier and was later dedicated to Evans’ memory.
NBC said at the time: “He was a truly unique talent with a remarkable spirit. He will be sorely missed.”
