Update: Rascal Video’s Cole Ryder Dies
NOTE: Please scroll to the bottom of this post for updated information.
Rascal Video exclusive, Cole Ryder was found dead today according to as-yet-unconfirmed reports. Though initial claims said that the porn star died in his sleep of a staph infection, that claim has since been retracted. At this time, his cause of death remains unknown, pending autopsy results.
A hot and hairy five-feet, 10 inches tall and 195 pounds, Ryder was one of the emerging crop of versatile, ultra-masculine performers under contract with Rascal since 2006. More as this story develops…
Previously on QC: Cole Ryder at Men Machine
UPDATE: August 15th
Although final results of his autopsy are still pending, the coroner’s first impression is that the immediate cause of Cole’s death was congestive heart failure. Preliminary tissue studies showed Cole suffered from severe, hereditary, arteriosclerosis, a hardening of the blood vessels, which can lead to heart attack, stroke or aneurysm. Final autopsy results are pending.
Friends of the late porn star issued a press release in which they solicit commemorative donations to The Life Group LA, an Los Angeles-based organization for HIV education and support. Funds donated in his name will launch a support program for emergency veterinary care for the pets of HIV+ men and woman.
Director Chi Chi LaRue sent over the following statement: “Cole Ryder was a beautiful person on the inside and the outside! He had such a great manly appeal and the heart of a gentle giant. Cole was always such a pleasure to work with and I’m deeply saddened by his passing. I can only wish now that he is in peace and he will always have a special place in my heart and the C1R Family.”
His friends have also launched Cole Ryder Tribute MySpace Page. The page is sweet in that it makes the deceased porn star look simultaneously hot and dorky with just a twinge of sadness — the page has only 19 friends. It alternates pictures of him shirtless in gay bars and clothed traveling the world, and lists “the joy of his life” as a 12-year-old dachshund, “Peanut.”
Read the full press release after the jump…
ESTATE OF COLE RYDER
2121 Maine Avenue
Long Beach, CA 90806
Phone (213) 840-0330
Fax (562) 218-6666
Contact: William Proctor
Phone: (213) 840-0330
Press Release
Contact: William Proctor
Phone: (213) 840-0330
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
9 A.M. EDT, August 8, 2008
ADULT FILM STAR, COLE RYDER, DIES
LONG BEACH, CA, JULY 30, 2008:
Cole Ryder passed away of natural causes at his home in Long Beach, California, shortly past 8 am on Wednesday, July 30th, 2008, at the age of 36. Cole passed peacefully in his sleep, surrounded by friends.
Cole was signed as an exclusive to Rascal Video in 2006 starting the trend of more masculine, rugged studio exclusives. His career was short, but prolific. He appeared in nine films over the course of two years, with two films still in post production.
Cole touched many people’s lives personally and professionally. He was always the first to greet anyone with a big smile and warm embrace. He listened and spoke with his heart.
Cole was active and passionate about animals and HIV education, prevention and fund raising. In June, 2008, Cole was the Honorary Trail Guide for Saddle Up LA, a benefit fundraiser for The Life Group LA of which he was very proud to be a part.
Cole would without a doubt appreciate a donation, large or small, to The Life Group LA with which he felt a close connection and affiliation. Funds donated in his name will launch a support program for emergency veterinary care for the pets of HIV+ men and woman.
The coroner’s first impression is that the immediate cause of Cole’s death was congestive heart failure. Preliminary tissue studies showed Cole suffered from severe, hereditary, arteriosclerosis, a hardening of the blood vessels, which can lead to heart attack, stroke or aneurysm. Final autopsy results are pending.
Family and friends wish to thank everyone for their sympathy and support.
