Gary Coleman
Gary Coleman
Table of Contents
Fast Facts
Quizzes
Media
More
Related Biographies

Gary Coleman

American actor
Feedback
Corrections? Updates? Omissions? Let us know if you have suggestions to improve this article (requires login).
Thank you for your feedback

Our editors will review what you’ve submitted and determine whether to revise the article.

External Websites
Britannica Websites
Articles from Britannica Encyclopedias for elementary and high school students.
Share
Share to social media
URL
https://www.britannica.com/biography/Gary-Coleman
Also known as: Gary Wayne Coleman
Fact-checked by
The Editors of Encyclopaedia Britannica
Encyclopaedia Britannica's editors oversee subject areas in which they have extensive knowledge, whether from years of experience gained by working on that content or via study for an advanced degree. They write new content and verify and edit content received from contributors.
The Editors of Encyclopaedia Britannica
Last Updated: • Article History
Gary Coleman
Gary Coleman
See all media
Born:
February 8, 1968 Zion Illinois
Died:
May 28, 2010 (aged 42) Provo Utah
See all related content →

Gary Coleman, in full Gary Wayne Coleman, (born February 8, 1968, Zion, Illinois, U.S.—died May 28, 2010, Provo, Utah), American child star known for his small stature. He was best known for starring in the situation comedy television series Diff’rent Strokes (1978–86). Coleman was adopted as a baby by Edmonia Sue Coleman, a nurse practitioner, and W.G. Coleman, a pharmaceutical company representative. He had been diagnosed with various medical issues at birth, including a potentially fatal form of the kidney disorder nephritis. As a result of treatment for that condition, he attained an adult height of only 4 feet 8 ...(100 of 477 words)

Access the full article
Help support true facts by becoming a member.