Sheridan Smith has been struck with new heartbreak as her ex-boyfriend, Graham Nation, tragically passed away at the age of 39.
The celebrated stylist, who worked with major Hollywood stars like Demi Moore and Catherine O’Hara, died unexpectedly at a Los Angeles gym on February 14. The L.A. County Department of Medical Examiner has confirmed that the cause of death is still under investigation.
Graham Nation’s Sudden Death Leaves Fans and Loved Ones in Shock
Graham Nation, who had been a significant part of the fashion world, was deeply cherished by those who knew him.
His death has left a profound impact, with many remembering him as a genuine soul.
Graham and Sheridan Smith had a brief but meaningful relationship in 2017, with Sheridan once describing him as her “dream man.”
The couple had even lived together at Sheridan’s home in London, sharing tender moments in the vibrant Notting Hill area.
However, their relationship ended after a short time, leaving Sheridan heartbroken.
A source close to the actress shared with The Sun that while there was no animosity between the two, Sheridan was feeling a deep sense of loneliness following their breakup.
The source also noted that Graham continued to be supportive of her, despite their separation.
Sheridan Smith Shelves Her Highly Anticipated Autobiography Amid Personal Struggles
The tragic news comes as Sheridan has faced yet another setback in her personal life.
She has decided to put a pause on her long-awaited autobiography, Honestly, which was first announced in 2021.
The tell-all book was intended to delve into Sheridan’s personal battles, including struggles with alcohol, mental health, and her high-profile relationships, such as with actor James Corden and Jamie Horn, the father of her son.
Unfortunately, after several delays, the book was ultimately canceled.
A source explained that Sheridan had a lot on her plate in recent years and simply didn’t have the time or mindset to finish it.
The decision didn’t come as a huge surprise to fans who have witnessed Sheridan’s ongoing struggles in the public eye, particularly her battles with fame and loss.
Sheridan Smith Reflects on Past Struggles and Mental Health Journey
Sheridan has always been open about her mental health issues, which became a focal point in 2016 when she faced a highly publicized breakdown while starring in Funny Girl on the West End stage.
The pressures of work, along with her father’s cancer diagnosis, played a significant role in her mental health decline, forcing her to take a break from the show.
Reflecting on that time, Sheridan admitted feeling deeply ashamed of her actions, saying, “I went off the rails a bit, dated all the wrong people… I feel like I’m a mum now, and I’m very grateful for everything I’ve got. I feel like the best is yet to come.”
She has since found healing, often tying her journey to her experiences in the public eye.
Sheridan also noted that the public’s understanding during her struggles was an important part of her recovery, saying, “The public always stood by me… People were stopping me and cuddling me on the street.”
Sheridan’s Role in Opening Night Mirrors Her Own Battle with Alcoholism
Sheridan’s most recent West End production, Opening Night, tackled difficult subject matter and closely mirrored her own struggles.
The play centered around a functioning alcoholic actress who slowly unravels under pressure, and Sheridan related deeply to her character’s journey.
While she was passionate about bringing her role to life, the show ultimately faced criticism and was shut down early due to financial issues.
Sheridan took the closure personally, admitting she felt heartbroken for the cast and crew who had worked so hard.
She shared her feelings of regret, saying, “I was just heartbroken for the company.
I felt like I let them down in a way, that I couldn’t sell it.”
Despite the challenges, Sheridan sees the experience as part of her growth, stating, “I wanted to prove that I could do it, that I could face my demons. I’m so much stronger than I was back then.”
Tributes Pour In for Graham Nation from Friends and Colleagues
Following Graham’s sudden death, tributes from his colleagues and friends have flooded in.
The Wall Group, the agency that represented Graham, shared a heartfelt tribute, honoring his legacy as a hairstylist and a person.
They described him as “a one-of-a-kind soul” who impacted everyone he met.
The tribute ended with a message of love and remembrance for Graham’s family and friends.
Before his passing, Graham had been active on social media, sharing a post in early February about styling Schitt’s Creek star Catherine O’Hara for a Super Bowl commercial.
In the post, he expressed his excitement about working on the project, calling it a “blast.”
Friends Remember Graham Nation’s Kindness and Artistic Vision
Erin Foster, a close friend and writer of the Netflix series Nobody Wants This, also paid tribute to Graham on Instagram.
She shared an emotional message reflecting on his untimely passing and expressed concern for his partner, Tonya, and their six-month-old son.
Erin described Graham as an incredible person and father, writing, “He left behind a six-month-old baby. He was amazing.”
Foster also shared a link to a GoFundMe page dedicated to supporting Tonya and their child, Romeo.
The fundraiser, which has already raised over £173,000, seeks to provide financial support to Graham’s family during this difficult time.
GoFundMe Launched to Support Graham Nation’s Family Following His Unexpected Passing
In the wake of Graham’s death, a GoFundMe campaign has been set up to assist his partner, Tonya, and their young son, Romeo.
The page highlights Graham’s contributions to the world as a hairstylist and a father, emphasizing his unwavering work ethic and the love he shared with his family.
The page continues to raise funds for the family, with many friends and colleagues sharing heartfelt messages of support.
As the tragic news of Graham’s passing spreads, those who knew him are united in their grief and remembrance, ensuring that his legacy lives on through the support of his loved ones.