'Christmas Carol' actor died on stage

An actor recently passed away on stage while performing A Christmas Carol. 

The actor, according to People magazine, is Julien Arnold, whom the outlet describes as "a beloved stage actor in Canada."

The incident did indeed occur in Canada - at the Citadel Theatre in Edmonton, Albert, to be precise. It took place during the Nov. 24, 2024, performance of A Christmas Carol. 

Arnold's passing is being reported as the result of a medical emergency.

Here's what we know:

At the time of writing, details about what exactly happened during the performance are scarce.

CBC reports:

Edmonton actor Julien Arnold died on Sunday night after a medical emergency during a performance of A Christmas Carol at the Citadel Theatre . . . Kerry Williamson, a spokesperson for Alberta Health Services, said paramedics visited the theatre at approximately 8:28 p.m. on Sunday. Despite resuscitation attempts, Arnold died in the theatre.

This is all that has been reported about the situation. It is clear that Arnold died from a medical emergency, but it is not clear what the medical emergency was and what caused it. An official cause of death has yet to be released.

The theater company has released a statement on the matter thanking the paramedics "for their swift actions" after Arnold collapsed, but no further details were provided.

Suffice it to say that many questions remain unanswered.

Background

In the play, Arnold was assigned the role of Marley and Mr. Fezziwig, according to the theater's playbill. It is unclear who will take Arnold's place in the role, but the theater is expected to dedicate the rest of the performances to Arnold's memory.

The Punctuate Theater, in a Facebook Post, wrote:

It is with heavy hearts that we share the sudden passing of our beloved friend Julien Arnold on the evening of November 24. Julien passed away while performing in A Christmas Carol at @citadeltheatreyeg, leaving us as he lived—immersed in his passion for theatre.

The theater went on to describe Arnold as "a cherished member of the Edmonton theatre community whose warmth, talent, and generosity touched so many lives."

The statement continued:

He leaves behind many loved ones including his loving wife, Sheiny Satanove, Punctuate! Theatre’s Managing Director, who now faces the immense challenge of moving forward without him.

The theater concluded, "Julien’s presence will forever be missed, but his legacy will live on in the hearts of all who had the privilege of knowing him."