NYPD Blue's Austin Majors Dead at 27, Fentanyl Ingestion Suspected

Jordan Claes
A photo of a young Austin Majors.
Getty | Angela Weiss

The winding road of a child actor can be difficult to navigate. It's not easy being a kid in an adult's world, and as a result — many don't end up making it.

With that said, it was recently confirmed that former child star, Austin Majors, has passed away. Austin is remembered as a kind and loving child by friends and family, who are now left to mourn a life extinguished far too soon.

The Infamous '27 Club' Has Claimed Another Victim.

Austin Majors holding a fish, while his girlfriend, Vic, hugs him.
instagram | @awsumaustin

Former child actor, Austin Majors, has passed away at the age of 27 from a suspected fentanyl overdose. He was staying at a LA homeless facility at the time of his death.

Over The Course Of His Short Career, Austin Was Best Known For 'NYPD Blue'

Theo Sipowicz in 'NYPD Blue'.
youtube | NBC via YouTube

The budding child star portrayed Theo Sipowicz, son of detective Andy Sipowicz; played by actor Dennis Franz.

Austin's Family Recently Released A Statement, Made Public By TMZ

Austin Majors cuddling with hid girlfriend under a blanket.
instagram | @awsumaustin

"Austin took great joy and pride in his acting career. He was an active Eagle Scout and graduated Salutatorian in High School," the statement read.

"He Went On To Graduate From USC’s School Of Cinematic Arts With A Passion Of Directing And Music Producing."

University of Southern California campus.
Unsplash | Fran

He made his family proud and he will be sorely missed by those who knew him best — people like his kid sister, Kali.

Kali Said She Has Nothing But Fond Memories Of Her Brother

Austin Majors with a group of friends.
instagram | @awsumaustin

Kali fondly recalls their time spent on set together, volunteering at Kids With A Cause, and backpacking.

A Quick Scroll Through Austin's Instagram Reveals A Proud Photo Of His SAG Card

Austin Majors SAG card.
instagram | @awsumaustin

"Woah! Just paid dues & realized I've been a member of SAG for 2 decades (now @sagaftra)," the caption read.

"I Never Dreamed I'd Still Be Alive This Many Years Later... Let Alone What This Would Effect."

Austin Majors at a music festival with his girlfriend.
instagram | @awsumaustin

Austin then went on to recall his first TV spot — a commercial for Bounty paper towels.

In 2002, Austin Received His First Young Artists Nomination

Andy Sipowicz in 'NYPD Blue'.
Giphy | Vulture.com

He took home the award for "Best Performance in a TV Series (Comedy or Drama) - Young Actor Age Ten or Under" for NYPD Blue

He Received Six More Nominations, The Last Of Which Took Place In 2009

Austin Majors in 'Accidental Christmas'.
youtube | Regent Entertainment

Austin starred opposite Cynthia Gibb and David Millbern in An Accidental Christmas.

Early On In His Career, Austin Was Nominated For "Best Performance In A Voice Over Role."

Jim Hawkins in 'Treasure Planet'.
Giphy

The film was Treasure Planet, based on the classic tale "Treasure Island" — originally written by Robert Louis Stevenson.

Aside From his Film Career, Austin Was Also A Prominent Academic

A movie projector.
Unsplash | Jeremy Yap

He graduated high school second in his class and went on to attend the School of Cinematic Arts at USC.

While Away At School, Austin Became A Member Of the Alpha Tau Omega Fraternity at USC

A fraternity in 'South Park'.
Giphy | South Park

During his tenure, Austin became interested in music and reportedly showed promise as both a producer and musician.

Austin Also Had Small (But Memorable) Parts In Several Critically Acclaimed Films/TV Series

These include Bye Bye Benjamin, Threshold, According to Jim, NCIS, and Dead Silence.

His Final Role Occurred In 2009

Austin Majors at the John Lennon memorial.
instagram | @awsumaustin

Austin was cast to play "Young Matthew" in CBS' hit comedy series, How I Met Your Mother. His passing speaks to the fragility of a child actor's life and he will be mourned for years to come.