Gary Coleman (February 8, 1968 - May 28, 2010), born in Zion, Illinois, is best known for his portrayal of Arnold Jackson in the sitcom “Diff’rent Srokes” from 1978 to 1986. After the show went off the air, he struggled financially. His diminutive size, even as an adult, was due to an autoimmune kidney disease. He had two kidney transplants which were unsuccessful, and was on daily dialysis. He ran for governor of California in 2003 as a satirical commentary. He admitted that the had attempted to commit suicide twice. He married an actress who was later arrested for domestic violence, and he died after he fell down the stairs at home.
 
 
Recommended Resources
This article, written in the winter of 2000, is an interview with Gary Coleman who talked about his role as a columnist, his hopes for the future, his hobbies, and a few personal questions.
http://thecelebritycafe.com/interviews/gary_coleman.html
CNN: Gary Coleman on California Ballot
Contains the news story about Diff'rent Strokes child star Gary Coleman and his bid for the office of the Governor of California.
http://www.cnn.com/2003/ALLPOLITICS/08/06/candidate.coleman/
Diff’rent Strokes Star Gary Coleman Dies at 42
Displays the People Magazine obituary and article about the death of Gary Coleman from an intracranial hemorrhage at his home in Utah. It also summarizes his life and his career.
http://www.people.com/people/article/0,,20389492,00.html
Jamie Kennedy: My Sad Memory of Gary Coleman
Comedian Jamie Kennedy gives his impressions and memories of Coleman, who he said inspired him.
http://www.people.com/people/article/0,,20389764,00.html