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.
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.
The budding child star portrayed Theo Sipowicz, son of detective Andy Sipowicz; played by actor Dennis Franz.
"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 made his family proud and he will be sorely missed by those who knew him best — people like his kid sister, Kali.
Kali fondly recalls their time spent on set together, volunteering at Kids With A Cause, and backpacking.
"Woah! Just paid dues & realized I've been a member of SAG for 2 decades (now @sagaftra)," the caption read.
Austin then went on to recall his first TV spot — a commercial for Bounty paper towels.
He took home the award for "Best Performance in a TV Series (Comedy or Drama) - Young Actor Age Ten or Under" for NYPD Blue
Austin starred opposite Cynthia Gibb and David Millbern in An Accidental Christmas.
The film was Treasure Planet, based on the classic tale "Treasure Island" — originally written by Robert Louis Stevenson.
He graduated high school second in his class and went on to attend the School of Cinematic Arts at USC.
During his tenure, Austin became interested in music and reportedly showed promise as both a producer and musician.
These include Bye Bye Benjamin, Threshold, According to Jim, NCIS, and Dead Silence.
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.
