Gary Coleman: Action Hero Security Guard

Peacock’s new documentary “Gary” sheds light on the challenging life of “Diff’rent Strokes” star Gary Coleman following the end of the series in 1986. From struggling to find work in Hollywood to pursuing different career paths, Coleman’s journey was filled with ups and downs.

Gary’s Transition Beyond “Diff’rent Strokes”

During the mid-’90s, Coleman faced financial difficulties as he struggled to secure TV roles to sustain himself. His dreams of becoming a cop as a child led him to pursue a career as a security guard, a move that brought both excitement and challenges.

Coleman’s friend and manager, Dion Mial, reflects on how becoming a security guard was a way for Coleman to live out his action hero fantasies. While it wasn’t his only non-entertainment job post-“Strokes,” it was one that didn’t end well for him.

Obstacles in the Entertainment Industry

Struggling with typecasting and the challenges faced by former child stars, Coleman found it difficult to break free from his iconic “Arnold Jackson” character. Despite his dedication to acting, he was often pigeonholed into specific roles that didn’t allow for growth.

Compounded by his congenital kidney condition and physical stature, Coleman’s opportunities in Hollywood became limited. The casting director of “Diff’rent Strokes” highlights the common pitfalls child actors face as they transition into adulthood.

The Battle Against Typecasting

Coleman’s desire to shed his wholesome image and take on more complex roles was hindered by the lingering association with his “Arnold” character. Despite his talent and dedication, he struggled to be seen beyond the catchphrase that defined his early career.

In a candid interview, Coleman expressed his frustration at being perceived only as “Arnold,” hindering his opportunities to explore diverse characters and portrayals. The struggle to break free from his past roles loomed large in his pursuit of a more versatile acting career.

Chasing Dreams Outside of Hollywood

Yearning for roles that would showcase his range, Coleman’s love for action and adventure movies drove him to seek opportunities beyond traditional acting gigs. Unable to secure roles as a superhero or larger-than-life villain, he turned to a career path that combined his livelihood with his childhood fantasies.

His stint as a security guard initially filled Coleman with pride, but the experience quickly took a turn for the worse. In 1998, an altercation with a fan led to legal consequences that marked the end of his security work and posed challenges to his professional trajectory.

The Unfortunate End of a Hollywood Star

Despite fleeting attempts to re-enter the entertainment industry and a brief foray into politics, Coleman’s life took a tragic turn. His passing in 2010 at the age of 42, following a fall in his Provo, Utah home, marked the end of a tumultuous journey marked by successes and setbacks.

“Gary” is now available for streaming on Peacock, offering viewers a glimpse into the challenges faced by a former child star navigating the complexities of fame and identity.

FAQs

Q: What were some of the challenges Gary Coleman faced post-“Diff’rent Strokes”?

A: Gary Coleman struggled with typecasting, limited acting opportunities, and financial difficulties as he tried to establish himself beyond his iconic TV role.

Q: How did Gary Coleman’s childhood dreams influence his career choices?

A: Coleman’s aspirations of becoming a cop and playing action hero roles motivated him to pursue diverse career paths, including working as a security guard to fulfill his fantasies.

Q: What ultimately led to the end of Gary Coleman’s Hollywood career?

A: Legal troubles and professional setbacks, along with challenges in redefining his on-screen image, contributed to the decline of Coleman’s acting career.

Credit: ew.com