Child Actor Blake Garrett Dies at 33 After Viral Infection

The How to Eat Fried Worms star passed away in Tulsa, Oklahoma after battling addiction.

Published on Feb. 10, 2026

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Child actor Blake Garrett, known for his role in the 2006 film How to Eat Fried Worms, has died at the age of 33. His mother, Carol, confirmed his passing to TMZ, sharing that his cause of death remains unknown as they await autopsy results. Garrett had recently been hospitalized with a viral infection and his mother fears he may have self-medicated to cope with the pain.

Why it matters

Garrett's death at a young age is a tragic loss for the entertainment industry, as he showed promise as a child actor with his breakout role in How to Eat Fried Worms. His struggles with addiction also highlight the challenges many young performers face in Hollywood.

The details

Born in Texas, Garrett made his acting debut on local productions of Annie and Grease before joining the cast of Barney's Colorful World International Tour. He then landed his big-screen debut in the 2006 children's comedy How To Eat Fried Worms, where he played one of the bullies. Garrett was taught how to do a 360-degree move on a bicycle by a stuntman for the film.

  • Garrett was found dead on February 10, 2026.
  • He had recently been hospitalized with a viral infection, likely shingles, the week prior to his death.

The players

Blake Garrett

A 33-year-old child actor who starred in the 2006 film How to Eat Fried Worms.

Carol Garrett

Garrett's mother, who confirmed his passing to TMZ.

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What they’re saying

“Blake went to the emergency room last week in Oklahoma after experiencing intense pain and was later diagnosed with shingles. His mother fears he may have self-medicated to cope with the pain from the viral infection.”

— Carol Garrett, Blake Garrett's mother (TMZ)

What’s next

Garrett's family is awaiting the results of an autopsy to determine the official cause of death.

The takeaway

Garrett's passing at a young age is a tragic reminder of the challenges many child actors face, including addiction and mental health issues, as they transition into adulthood. His story highlights the need for greater support and resources for young performers in the entertainment industry.