Shocking Truth Unveiled: Exclusive Details on the Untimely Demise of ‘Eight Is Enough’ Star Adam Rich

Adam Rich. MediaPunch/Shutterstock

Adam Rich's cause of death has finally been disclosed, almost six months after his passing at the age of 54. The Los Angeles Medical Examiner's office recently released a report stating that Rich died on January 7 as a result of the "effects of fentanyl." His death has been officially classified as an accident.

Rich, the former Eight Is Enough star, was discovered deceased in his residence in Los Angeles, as news broke in January. He gained prominence for his portrayal of the youngest brother, Nicholas Bradford, in the ABC sitcom Eight Is Enough, which aired from 1977 to 1981. The show chronicled the daily escapades of the extensive Bradford family, featuring notable actors such as Dick Van Patten, Connie Needham, Grant Goodeve, Willie Aames, Lani O'Grady, and Laurie Walters.

According to the late Van Patten, who passed away in 2015 at the age of 86, Adam played a significant role in the show's tremendous success. In a retrospective interview with the Archive of American Television, Van Patten expressed that people adored Adam and even named their children after his character, Nicholas.

After the conclusion of Eight Is Enough, Rich pursued a career in acting and secured roles in popular shows such as The Love Boat, Fantasy Island, CHiPs, Silver Spoons, and Baywatch. However, in the years leading up to his death, the Code Red alum decided to retreat from the public eye.

After Rich's death, numerous actors who played his siblings on TV honored his enduring impact.

"This morning, my wife Winnie woke me up with the devastating news of Adam Rich's passing," Aames, 62, shared on Facebook in January. "I am filled with sorrow. Adam was not just a colleague to me, he was like a younger brother. A friend for life."

Corey Feldman expressed his condolences for Rich on Twitter, describing him as a brilliant light and a talented individual who, like himself, had struggled as a child star. Feldman considered Rich a friend and admired his dedication to raising awareness about mental illness. He concluded his tweet by expressing his sorrow at the loss and how much he would miss Rich.

The Goonies star added: “I hope & pray he’s able 2 C this somehow from out there! Cuz it sure would have helped his Heart 2 C it while he was still here!”