‘Once Upon a Time’ actor Chris Gauthier dead at 48

Chris Gauthier, the actor best known for his roles in “Once Upon a Time” and “Smallville,” died on Feb. 23, his manager announced to TV Line Sunday. He was 48. 

Gauthier passed away “suddenly and unexpectedly” following a short illness, the manager explained. Talent agency TriStar Appearances/Event Horizon Talent also confirmed the English-born Canadian actor’s passing.

“As a beloved Vancouver-based character actor, Chris shared his talents with so many of us both on television and in film. His loss is felt not just by his fans but by those of us who were lucky enough to know him more personally,” the agency shared in a statement.

His manager confirmed he passed away after a “brief illness.” captaingauthier/Instagram He also was known for his role in “Smallville.” ©Warner Bros/Courtesy Everett Collection

“On behalf of his family, we do ask for privacy during this time so that they are able to grieve properly.”

Chad Colvin of TriStar Appearances mourned the “Eureka” star’s death on Facebook, telling his followers that he “wept tears of disbelief for hours” after hearing the news from Gauthier’s wife.

Chad Colvin of TriStar Appearances said on Facebook that he “wept” for “hours” after hearing the tragic news. Getty Images

“This still doesn’t feel real. How can it?” he wrote. “A world without you in it is a much darker place.”

Colin O’Donoghue, who played Hook in “Once Upon a Time” opposite Gauthier’s Smee, paid tribute to his late co-star on Instagram, writing, “Rest in Peace Chris! Heartbroken! My love and thoughts go out to [wife] Erin and the boys!

He is survived by his wife, Erin, and his two sons, Ben and Sebastian. captaingauthier/Instagram

“You will be missed brother!” he continued. “You were the real captain!!”

Gauthier’s film credits included “40 Days and 40 Nights,” “Agent Cody Banks” and “Freddy vs. Jason.”

Gauthier is survived by his wife, Erin, and his two sons, Ben and Sebastian.