News emerged not too long ago that actor Luke Westlake had tragically passed away at the age of just 26.
Westlake was only just beginning his career at the time of his death, with roles in Luther, Doctors and No Offence.
He was found dead back in June and now an inquest into the cause of his death has recorded a verdict.
**BRAND NEW EPISODE**
— The BWH Agency (@TheBWHAgency) January 2, 2019
Set your reminders for 9pm tonight to see our brilliant @LukeWestlake_ as Lee Peck in the next episode of #Luther! @BBCOne #DontMissOut pic.twitter.com/Y80kdK1EZO
The 26 year old was found dead on June 18, 2020 and an inquest took place yesterday in Beaconsfield, Buckinghamshire.
It’s believed that Westlake’s long-distance relationship had broken down and that he had attempted suicide previously.
The verdict claimed that Westlake messaged his ex-girlfriend the night before his death, telling her of his intentions.
The court heard that Westlake had been attending therapy to deal with childhood trauma and also alcohol and drug problems.
@kyle_rowe & @kristianwalll and the members of @justaddmilkJAM set up the Luke Westlake scholarship that is going bless countless young artists at drama school. Let’s remember him by the legacy he left behind and the kind of man who can inspire such generosity in his friends ✨
— Jonathan Taiwo Ajayi (@MrJonathanA) January 28, 2021
It has since been confirmed that Westlake took his own life.
Assistant Coroner Michael Walsh concluded the inquest, saying:
Luke was aged 26 years at the time of his death. He had a history of anxiety and depression and substantial misuse by way of alcohol and cannabis, used as a coping mechanism…
Luke found it difficult to deal with stressful triggers – his relationship and his employment.
It was noted that it was not uncommon for him to threaten to harm himself – such an occasion occurred on June 17.
He had threatened to take his life and he had taken cannabis shortly before he died.
So tragic.
Our thoughts go out to Luke’s family and friends during this hard time.
Rest in peace.
