Actor Julien Arnold has died at the age of 60 after he suffered a medical emergency on stage while performing A Christmas Carol.
He died during an evening performance of the stage production at the Citadel Theatre in Edmonton, Canada, on Sunday, November 24, according to a statement from Punctuate! Theatre, where his wife Sheiny Satanove is managing director.
The Citadel’s executive director, Jessie van Rijn, and artistic director, Daryl Cloran, said in a statement on Monday to CBC News that he will be ‘deeply missed’.
‘His presence brought joy, heart and depth to every role, and his artistic contributions – and big hugs – will be deeply missed,’ they said.
According to the outlet paramedics arrived at the theatre at approximately 8.28pm, and he died on site despite resuscitation attempts.
Punctuate! Theatre’s announcement read: ‘It is with heavy hearts that we share the sudden passing of our beloved friend Julien Arnold on the evening of November 24.
‘Julien passed away while performing in A Christmas Carol at @citadeltheatreyeg, leaving us as he lived—immersed in his passion for theatre.
‘Julien was a cherished member of the Edmonton theatre community whose warmth, talent, and generosity touched so many lives.
‘He leaves behind many loved ones including his loving wife, Sheiny Satanove, Punctuate! Theatre’s Managing Director, who now faces the immense challenge of moving forward without him.’
A fundraiser has also been set up to help support Arnold’s wife ‘during this difficult time’ and it will cover ‘funeral expenses, rent, groceries, and giving her the time she needs to grieve’.
‘We invite you to donate if you are able and to share the fundraiser widely. Julien’s reach was vast, and we hope to give everyone the opportunity to express their condolences and support. Find the Go Fund Me link in our Linktree @punctuatetheatre,’ the statement continued.
It added: ‘Julien’s presence will forever be missed, but his legacy will live on in the hearts of all who had the privilege of knowing him. Thank you for keeping Sheiny and their loved ones in your thoughts.’
Details about a memorial service are to be shared soon.
On Wednesday evening the Citadel Theatre updated followers, thanking them for the outpouring of support.
‘We are profoundly grateful for the outpouring of support from our community and across the country for Julien Arnold, his family, friends, the Christmas Carol company, and our Citadel team,’ they wrote.
The theatre are also honouring Arnold’s memory by dedicating this season’s run of A Christmas Carol to their ‘dear friend’.
Of the cast, the theatre explained: ‘As they prepare to return to the stage, please know the Carol family feels the warmth and support of the community as they come together once again to share a story grounded in the importance of compassion, the power of generosity, and the resilience of the human spirit.
‘A Christmas Carol at the Citadel Theatre runs until December 24. We warmly encourage you to continue supporting this extraordinary cast, crew, and creative team by joining us in the Maclab Theatre – and cheering them on with a little extra love.’
There was an outpouring of tributes on social media following the news of Arnold’s death, as epicfoodandepiclife wrote: ‘Sincerest condolences to Julien’s family & friends & his Citadel Family of both past and present.’
On Punctuate! Theatre’s announcement, many also wrote their messages of support for Sheiny.
‘Sending love to the entire P! team, especially Sheiny. What a staggering loss,’ said niuboi, while laraebata added: ‘Sending love and condolences to you all. Keeping Sheiny in my thoughts, such heartbreaking news.’
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