In a heartbreaking turn of events, Blake Garrett, the talented child actor renowned for his role in "How to Eat Fried Worms," has tragically passed away at the age of 33. This news was first reported by TMZ on February 9, 2026.
According to his mother, Carol Garrett, Blake died unexpectedly on Sunday. The family is currently in a state of waiting as they anticipate the results of an autopsy from the medical examiner, which will hopefully clarify the cause of his untimely death.
Carol shared that just last week, Blake had gone to the emergency room in Oklahoma due to severe pain and was subsequently diagnosed with shingles, a viral infection known for causing painful rashes. In a candid revelation, she mentioned that Blake may have resorted to self-medicating as a way to manage the discomfort associated with this condition. She expressed her belief that his death could potentially be a tragic accident stemming from his attempts to alleviate his suffering.
Reflecting on Blake's life, Carol noted that he had been enjoying a fulfilling and positive lifestyle over the past three years in Tulsa, Oklahoma. This period marked a significant turnaround for him, especially after achieving sobriety, which he maintained with determination.
Blake Garrett was born in Austin, Texas, where he began his journey in the entertainment industry at a young age. He gained recognition early on through lead roles in local theater productions such as "Aladdin and His Magical Lamp" and "Peanuts: A Charlie Brown Tribute." His career took off when, at just 10 years old, he joined the cast of the arena show "Barney’s Colorful World International Tour," showcasing his talent to audiences across the nation.
His breakout role came in 2006 when he portrayed Plug in the beloved film "How to Eat Fried Worms." This performance not only solidified his status as a young star but also earned him a Young Artist Award for Best Young Ensemble Cast, a testament to his impressive abilities at such a young age.
It is a profound loss for those who knew Blake and for fans who admired his work. He will be remembered fondly for his contributions to film and theater.
Rest in peace, Blake Garrett.
