Bethany Joy Lenz Mourns ‘One Tree Hill’ Co-Star Paul Teal Who Died at 35: ‘My Heart Is Heavy’

“One Tree Hill” star Paul Teal has died at 35 after an apparent health battle. The actor’s death was announced by his partner, Emilia Torello, in a moving tribute on Instagram Nov. 17. “The most thoughtful, inspiring, driven, self-disciplined, loving man passed away on Friday, November 15, 2024. Paul, you were my soulmate, my soon-to-be-husband, my rock, and my future. You filled my lungs with laughter, my stomach with butterflies, and my heart with love. You were taken too soon, in a battle that you fought bravely without fail,” she began, adding, “While a part of me died with you, I promise to fight to find joy in life as hard as you fought to live every single day. The world is lucky to have even had a moment with Paul Teal, and I am the luckiest person in it, because I got to call you mine. I will love you forever.” Shortly after the news of his passing, “One Tree Hill” alum Bethany Joy Lenz, known for her role as Haley James Scott in the hit drama TV series, also took to Instagram to mourn the loss of her friend and former costar, who joined in Season 7 as Josh. “My heart is heavy. Paul Teal was the kind of guy who lit up a room without trying. His bright smile, infectious laugh and kind heart made you want to be near him,” she wrote in part.