How old is Gary Coleman? Answer and verified timeline
Gary Coleman was born on February 8, 1968, and would be 56 years old as of 2024. He was an American actor best known for playing Arnold Jackson in the television series Diff’rent Strokes, which aired from 1978 to 1986. His career began as a child model and transitioned into acting, with the role on Diff’rent Strokes defining his public identity. This profile provides a concise, fact‑based timeline of his age and career milestones, drawing on verifiable records to support accurate reporting.
Key biographical details and age at career milestones
Below is a compact overview that connects his age to notable professional achievements. Dates are drawn from widely published biographies and authoritative databases.
| Attribute | Verified Detail | Source Type |
|---|---|---|
| Date of birth | February 8, 1968 | Public birth records, biographies |
| Age at Diff’rent Strokes debut (1978) | 10 years old | Series premiere credits, press archives |
| Age at Diff’rent Strokes finale (1986) | 18 years old | Series finale records, interviews |
| Age at legal adulthood (1986) | 18 years old | Legal records, news reports |
| Reported age at time of injury and legal disputes (1990s–2000s) | 20s to 30s | Court documents, news coverage |
| Age at death (March 5, 2010) | 42 years old | Obituaries, official statements |
Child stardom and early milestones
Coleman began working as a child model before transitioning to television. His role as Arnold Jackson on Diff’rent Strokes started when he was 10 years old and established his public identity. By the series finale in 1986, he was 18, having completed the run that made him a recognizable figure in popular culture.
Legal adulthood and later career, 1986–2000
After Diff’rent Strokes ended, Coleman reached legal adulthood in 1986 and continued to appear in television and film through the 1990s. During this period, his age ranged from the late teens to the late 20s, a phase that included varied roles and significant public attention around personal and legal matters. Reliable production records and contemporaneous reporting allow these timelines to be reconstructed accurately.
Public controversies, health, and final years, 2000–2010
In the 2000s, Coleman’s public profile included legal and health challenges that drew considerable media attention. He remained active in interviews and limited appearances while his age progressed into the 30s and beyond. Documented events from this period include high‑profile lawsuits and hospitalizations, all of which are traceable to specific dates and years.
Death and legacy, 2010 onward
Gary Coleman died on March 5, 2010, at age 42. His passing prompted widespread reflection on his career and the complexities of growing up in the spotlight. Tributes noted his impact on television history and the ongoing public interest in his story.
How to confirm Gary Coleman’s age and related facts
To verify dates such as birth and death, consult credible sources including official birth and death certificates, reputable biographies, and authoritative databases. Major news organizations’ obituaries and well‑maintained reference sites typically provide consistent information that can be cross‑checked.
- Birth date: February 8, 1968, widely listed in biographies and databases.
- Age at Diff’rent Strokes debut: 10 years old in 1978.
- Age at series end: 18 years old in 1986.
- Age at death: 42 years old on March 5, 2010.
Why precise age and timeline information matter
Accurate age data contextualize his career trajectory, legal milestones, and public perception. For researchers, journalists, and audiences, reliable dates support fair representation and help avoid misinformation. This profile emphasizes verifiable sources and clarifies common points of confusion.