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How did Lance Kerwin die? ‘James at 15’ actor and former child star dead at 62

Lance Kerwin, who became well-known in the 1970s for roles in shows like 'Salem's Lot' and 'James at 15', died at his home in California

LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA: Lance Kerwin, who became well-known in the 1970s for roles in shows like 'Salem's Lot' and 'James at 15', died at his home in California on January 24 at the age of 62. His daughter Savanah Kerwin announced his death in a Facebook post, writing, “Hello everyone, I am so sorry to those we have not been able to reach out to personally to notify but Lance Kerwin passed away yesterday morning. We appreciate all the kind words, memories, and prayers that have been shared. As the coming week progresses, I will share more information about afterlife ceremonies. He loved each and every one of you.”

Although the exact cause of death was not immediately known, a friend's 2021 GoFundMe campaign said that Kerwin had been dealing with "a back injury and other health issues." “Lance is ready to make a return to acting, has an agent, and the potential for TV and film work-but funds are needed to cover immediate needs and stabilize his family's current situation as he re-establishes himself in the LA area and continues working on replacing all his documentation,” the page added. 

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The youngest of five siblings and the child of a showbiz-focused family, Kerwin was born in 1960. At age 13, he started acting.  Kerwin was best known for his roles in ‘James at 15’, ‘Salem’s Lot,’ ‘Little House on the Prairie,’ ‘Gunsmoke,’ ‘The Loneliest Runner,’  ‘The Bionic Woman’ among others. As expected after his death, several fans came out and expressrd their condolences to the late star. One person wrote on Twitter, “Absolutely shocked and saddened to hear about Lance Kerwin's passing. He was a mainstay on television in the 1970s, but I imagine most TVM lovers will remember him best for Salem's Lot (kinda weird that it's Tobe Hooper's bday today). What a loss. RIP.”

“I am beyond heartbroken to hear of the passing of one of my greatest friends and co-stars I have ever worked with, Lance Kerwin. He was the child actor that inspired me to be the best that I could be because he was the best I had ever seen. Rest in peace my friend,” another added. Someone noted, “SALEM'S LOT was the first King book I read, and its opening line - "Everybody thought the man and the boy were father and son" - hits differently today. Lance Kerwin was the perfect Mark Petrie.” “This is such a bummer. Just got the word that Lance Kerwin died. I was fortunate enough to work with him this last September and he was the nicest guy. Really sweet with his fans too. RIP Lance,” yet another user remarked.