Actor Jackson Odell Dies Aged 20

Getty

The actor and musician Jackson Odell has died at the age of 20.

Jackson Odell is reported to have died in the San Fernando Valley on Friday, (June 8) according to law enforcement.

There were no signs of foul play and the investigation is still ongoing.

Jackson began acting at the age of 12 and worked on various popular TV shows such as Nickelodeon’s iCarly, Arrested Development and in Modern Family where he played Luke and Manny’s school friend Ted Durkas.

According to US publication TMZ:

We’re told he was found unresponsive in a sober living home, and there were no signs of foul play.

Born Jackson Reid Odell in Colorado, USA on July 2, 1997, the star made the move to Nashville to follow a career in Country music.

ABC

The promising young actor was also a talented musician; having written several songs for the movie soundtrack of Forever Your Girl, including the hit Wings of an Angel.

The poignant lyrics to this song, which was sung by Lauren Alaina, are as follows:

Under the wings of an angel
Where my weary heart can sleep
I can close my eyes without thinking twice
‘Cause my soul’s been set free
Under the wings of an angel
Heaven comes to me
The pearly gates are open wide
To eternity.

As the years have grown longer
The shelves are full of dust
And our love is now stronger
Than the two of us
And the memories on the wall
The colors faded away
I could relive them all
Till my dying day.

Speaking to reporters on the red carpet, Jackon made the following comments about his work on Forever Your Girl:

Writing from a place of truth is a really big deal for me – whether it’s about relationships, or whether it’s about redemption or catharsis or whatever it is – it’s not really about the subject, as it is about the progress and the experience, and the process that someone goes through without love.

I draw inspiration from truth wherever that may lie.

Gifted singer and guitarist Jackson established his very own YouTube channel JaxnSings back in 2010, where he shared his songs with fans.

His channel description reads:

Guitar player and singer/songwriter. I love music, just as much as I love my fans. I don’t always do things the way I’m supposed to.

Jackson will perhaps be best remembered by fans for his memorable role as popular student Ari Caldwell in American sitcom The Goldbergs.

He also worked on kid’s comedy film Judy Moody And The Not So Bummer Summer, where he played the role of Zeke.

Fans have taken to social media to express their sadness.

Entertainment and Lifestyle Reporter Rachael Ellenbogen tweeted:

No!! Jackson Odell was so insanely talented. Not just for random shows & movies, but for his music.

Followed him on YT for yrs & made sure to include him in an article I did at my 1st internship yrs ago. Then went to see #ForeverMyGirl opening night to support his songwriting.

Our thoughts are with the family and friends of Jackson Odell at this difficult time.

If you have experienced a bereavement and would like to speak with someone in confidence contact Cruse Bereavement Care via their national helpline on 0808 808 1677.

Julia Banim

Jules studied English Literature with Creative Writing at Lancaster University before earning her masters in International Relations at Leiden University in The Netherlands (Hoi!). She then trained as a journalist through News Associates in Manchester. Jules has previously worked as a mental health blogger, copywriter and freelancer for various publications.