Young Grinch actor dies two years after 2000 film release

real picture How the Grinch Stole Christmas The film has become a holiday classic, but fans may not be aware that one of its most memorable stars died just two years after its release.

actor Joshua Ryan Evans He passed away at the age of 20, not long after winning the hearts of fans as the 8-year-old Grinch. Ron Howard– Director of Christmas movies. Evans, who lived with a form of dwarfism called achondroplasia, died in August 2002 at a San Diego hospital as a result of a medical procedure to correct a congenital heart disease.

How the Grinch Stole ChristmasReleased in theaters in November 2000, it was Evans’ second-to-last acting film before his death. Evans famously appeared as a younger version of . Jim CarreyThe Grinch in a flashback sequence explaining the character’s dislike of Christmas. Adopted by two Whoville residents, the young Grinch tries to impress his crush, Martha May Whoville, by shaving her face, but harms herself in the process. After being ridiculed by his classmates and teacher, the young Grinch runs away to Mount Crumpit and vows to hate Christmas.

Evans’ version of the Grinch was only 8 years old, but the actor was a teenager when filming the movie. His achondroplasia made him look younger than his actual age and he was only 3 feet 2 inches tall. Evans also underwent several surgeries during his childhood due to congenital heart disease.

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As a result of being confined at home due to medical issues, watching frequent TV shows and movies inspired Evans to become an actor. “I thought, if it’s all pretend, why can’t I do that,” he said. Los Angeles Times In an interview in November 2000.

Evans began acting in television shows such as: family problems, Ally McBeal, Hello Arnold!, Rugrats and seventh heaven Before making a reservation How the Grinch Stole Christmas. He also starred as Timmy the Living Doll on the NBC soap opera. passion From 1999 to 2002.

In a strange Hollywood coincidence, Evans died the day of the episode. passion It aired where his character died and his heart was donated.

Evans’ role How the Grinch Stole Christmas It was originally made from small parts, but inspired by his skills, Howard, 70, expanded them. “As a result, he was able to create characters and bring a lot of heart to the story,” the director said. Los Angeles Times November 2000. “It was a really pleasant surprise. I always enjoy working with Jim, but Josh was a real pleasure.”

Like Carrey, 62, Evans also spent hours in the makeup chair. He told the newspaper: “I’ve had three heart surgeries, so I know what it’s like to have pins and needles in your body. his mother, Cheryl EvansHe added: “At one point we had been there for 16 hours and I was ready to pull him out. Then Ron said ‘action’ and he just came to life.”

At the time, Evans said if she had been removed from the film, “I would never have forgiven myself.” “It came so close (that it pulled itself in). With two days left, I knew I had to go back. “It was morning, I got up and got dressed, but I didn’t want to go,” he said. “Last night my mom was screaming every second and she said something.”

Before his death, Evans was also considering options behind the camera. “Ron asked if I could observe him, so he offered me an internship,” he recalled. “I can’t think too far into the future. I feel better than I’ve ever felt. I love being an actor. I love my job. I like rewards.”