The news came like a sudden storm, leaving fans and friends reeling.
A young life that had once shone brightly on screen had ended abruptly, and questions lingered in every corner of social media. How does someone who seemed to be rebuilding, celebrating sobriety, and finding their footing in life suddenly disappear so unexpectedly? As details emerged from Tulsa, a haunting sense of uncertainty settled over the story, leaving loved ones and strangers alike searching for answers that might never come.
Blake Garrett, the former child actor celebrated for his role as Plug in the 2006 family comedy How to Eat Fried Worms, has died at the age of 33. His passing on Sunday, February 8, in Tulsa, Oklahoma, was confirmed by his mother, Carol Garrett. The family is still awaiting official autopsy results to determine the precise cause of death.
Born Nolan Blake Garrett in Austin, Texas, Blake showed a natural talent for performance from an early age. He captivated audiences in local theater productions such as Aladdin and His Magical Lamp and Peanuts: A Charlie Brown Tribute, later appearing in stage adaptations of The Wizard of Oz, Annie, and Grease. At just 10 years old, he toured nationally with Barney’s Colorful World International Tour, an impressive achievement for a young performer.
It was How to Eat Fried Worms that brought him widespread recognition. In the quirky family film, Garrett portrayed Plug, joining a young ensemble cast that later won a Young Artist Award. The story, following a new kid at school daring to eat 10 worms as part of a wild bet, became a memorable part of mid-2000s childhood cinema—and Blake’s performance left a lasting impression on audiences.
In recent years, Blake had been living in Oklahoma, dedicating himself to sobriety for three years—a personal accomplishment his mother said he was deeply proud of. Carol revealed that Blake had recently sought emergency medical care after experiencing severe pain and was diagnosed with shingles. She fears he may have tried to self-medicate to manage the discomfort, suggesting that his death could have been a tragic accident.
Friends and family remember him as someone committed to rebuilding his life and moving forward in a positive direction. Though his time was cut short, those close to him say Blake remained focused on sobriety and personal growth, showing resilience and determination despite past struggles.
Conclusion
Blake Garrett’s passing leaves a void not only for his family and friends but also for fans who remember the joy he brought to the screen as a child. His story is a poignant reminder of life’s fragility and the unseen battles many face behind closed doors. While questions remain surrounding his sudden death, Blake’s legacy as a talented performer and a person striving for better days will continue to be remembered and cherished by all whose lives he touched.