'Highlander' actor Stan Kirsch found dead from apparent suicide aged 51
Actor Stan Kirsch who is known for his role in 'Highlander' was found dead in his Los Angeles home over the weekend. The news of his death was confirmed by his wife Kristyn Green who shared a note on Facebook.
She wrote, "I want to thank everyone for the outpouring of love and support. I haven’t been able to respond to all the texts, calls, emails — but have read or listened to every single one of them. I feel surrounded by love and am forever grateful to each and every one of you."
The official Stan Kirsch page on Facebook also shared, "We tragically lost our beloved Stan Kirsch on January 11th. We will be closed for the next 2 weeks as we process and grieve. He was so loved and we are all just devastated. Thank you for your understanding and respecting our privacy during this incredibly difficult time."
According to a report in TMZ, the actor was found dead by apparent suicide. He was discovered by his wife hanging in the bathroom and paramedics were called in. The actor was pronounced dead on the scene. The 51-year-old actor was known for his character Richie Ryan, which he portrayed for six seasons of 'Highlander'.
The show's official page also shared a condolence note which said, "It is with great sadness that we acknowledge the passing of Stan Kirsch. Without Stan Kirsch, Highlander: The Series would have been far less. He brought a sense of humor, kindness and youthful enthusiasm to the character of Richie Ryan for six seasons."
The note further added, "Stan was at a disadvantage compared to other actors portraying immortals on the series. He was never able to have flashbacks from the 1800's or discuss how things were ‘back in his day’. However, Stan turned this situation into an opportunity; providing one of the few portrayals on the show where a character gradually grew into a wise, skilled and self-assured individual from episode to episode. Stan even changed himself physically to show how Richie Ryan would survive in the world of the immortals."
Also speaking of the character, it was noted, "Although Richie Ryan’s life was cut short on the show, there was little more to see; Richie Ryan had evolved into his own man, and it was Stan’s performance that made it true."
"Beyond Highlander: The Series, Stan Kirsch was an accomplished acting coach. We have heard first-hand testimonials from many of his students; all of them having considered Stan an incredible teacher and a gift of a human being. Every time we had the opportunity to catch up with Stan, he was nothing but kind, thoughtful and sincere. He was a warm presence that will be missed," the post said in conclusion.
