Evan Ellingson was a former child actor who appeared in several TV shows and movies, such as CSI: Miami, 24, My Sister’s Keeper, and Letters from Iwo Jima. He was born on July 1, 1988, in La Verne, California, and had three brothers. He started his acting career at the age of 13, after being discovered at a skate park by a talent agent. He was known for his charisma and talent, and he enjoyed surfing, camping, hiking and riding horses in his spare time.
Ellingson died on Sunday, November 5, 2023, at the age of 35. He was found dead in a bedroom in Fontana, California, about an hour east of Los Angeles. The cause of death is still pending, according to the San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department Coroner’s division. His father told TMZ that Ellingson struggled with addiction and died in a sober-living home. His death shocked and saddened many of his fans and co-stars, who expressed their condolences and tributes on social media.
Ellingson’s most memorable role was as Jesse Fitzgerald in the 2009 film My Sister’s Keeper, a drama about a family coping with their young daughter’s cancer diagnosis. He played the rebellious older brother of Abigail Breslin’s character, who was conceived as a donor for her sister. He starred alongside Cameron Diaz, Jason Patric, Alec Baldwin and Sofia Vassilieva. The film was based on the bestselling novel by Jodi Picoult, and it received mixed reviews from critics but was a box office success. Ellingson’s performance was praised for its emotional depth and realism.
Ellingson also played the son of David Caruso’s character, Lt. Horatio Caine, on CSI: Miami. He appeared in 19 episodes of the popular crime drama series between 2007 and 2010. His character, Kyle Harmon, was a troubled teenager who had a strained relationship with his father, who he initially believed was his uncle. He also had a history of drug abuse and involvement in criminal activities. He eventually reconciled with his father and joined the army.
Another notable role of Ellingson was as Josh Bauer, the nephew of Kiefer Sutherland’s character, Jack Bauer, on 24. He appeared in six episodes of the sixth season of the acclaimed action thriller series in 2007. His character was kidnapped by a Chinese and used as leverage against his uncle, who was trying to stop a nuclear threat. He was rescued by his uncle and his father, James Heller, played by William Devane.
Ellingson’s other credits include the 2006 war film Letters from Iwo Jima, directed by Clint Eastwood, the 2007 comedy Walk the Talk, the 2004-2005 sitcom Complete Savages, and guest appearances on shows like General Hospital, Mad TV, and Titus. He also did a commercial for the Vans Company and a trilogy of short films written specifically for him. His last onscreen appearance was in CSI: Miami in 2010.
Evan Ellingson was a talented and versatile actor who left a mark on the entertainment industry with his roles. He will be remembered and missed by his fans and colleagues. May he rest in peace.