Quick Read
- Brad Everett Young, actor and celebrity photographer, died at 46 in a car accident.
- He was known for his roles in ‘Grey’s Anatomy’ and as the founder of Dream Loud Official.
- Young captured Hollywood’s biggest stars and advocated for arts education.
Hollywood is mourning the loss of Brad Everett Young, a man whose life was a vibrant tapestry of art, compassion, and relentless creativity. The 46-year-old actor and celebrity photographer passed away on the night of September 14, 2025, in a tragic car accident on the 134 Freeway in Los Angeles. According to his publicist, Paul Christensen, Young was driving home alone after a movie when his vehicle was struck by a wrong-way driver. He was pronounced dead at the scene, leaving behind a legacy that transcends the glitz and glamour of Hollywood.
A Career Rooted in Creativity
Brad Everett Young was not just an actor or a photographer; he was a storyteller. Born on July 24, 1979, in Danville, Virginia, he initially planned to pursue a career in medicine. However, his path took a dramatic turn when he moved to Los Angeles after graduating from Averett University. Within a month of arriving, Young booked his first television role, joined the Screen Actors Guild, and began a journey that would see him become a beloved figure in both the entertainment and photography industries.
As an actor, Young’s career spanned decades and included appearances on iconic television shows like Grey’s Anatomy, Boy Meets World, Felicity, and Charmed. He also graced the big screen with roles in films such as Charlie’s Angels, Jurassic Park III, and Austin Powers in Goldmember. While his acting roles were often small, his presence was anything but. He brought depth and authenticity to every character, no matter how brief the appearance.
Yet, it was behind the lens where Young truly found his voice. As a celebrity photographer, he captured the essence of Hollywood’s biggest stars, from David Harbour to Sarah Michelle Gellar. His work was featured in esteemed publications like Vanity Fair, Vogue, and Variety. But more than his technical skill, it was Young’s ability to connect with his subjects that set him apart. “He had an eye that could capture both the glitz of celebrity and the quiet humanity behind the flash,” his publicist noted. This unique perspective made him a fixture at red carpets, premieres, and industry events, where he was as much a part of the scene as the stars he photographed.
A Champion for the Arts
Beyond his professional achievements, Young was deeply committed to giving back. In 2014, he founded the Dream Loud Official campaign, a grassroots initiative aimed at restoring music and arts programs in schools across the United States. For Young, creativity was not a luxury but a necessity, an essential part of education that deserved unwavering support. Through Dream Loud, he worked tirelessly to inspire students, teachers, and artists, emphasizing the transformative power of the arts.
“Brad’s passion for both the arts and the people behind them was unmatched,” Christensen said. “He lived his mission of keeping creativity alive, and his legacy will continue through Dream Loud Official.”
A Life Remembered
Young’s untimely death has left a void in the lives of those who knew and loved him. Tributes have poured in from across the entertainment industry, each one a testament to the impact he had. Parry Shen, an actor on General Hospital, described Young as “one of the kindest and most generous people” he had ever met. “He absolutely refused money whenever he took photos of me, was present to help set up at events, and simply wanted to help promote my, and others’, careers,” Shen shared. “He was always striving to make the situation better.”
Young’s life was a mosaic of moments that reflected his indomitable positivity and boundless energy. From attending premieres and galas to advocating for arts education, he approached every endeavor with passion and purpose. His last public appearances, including the screening of Mob Cops in April 2025 and a Q&A for The Long Walk in September, were marked by the same enthusiasm that defined his career.
A Legacy That Endures
Brad Everett Young’s story is one of resilience, creativity, and a deep love for the arts. His journey from a small town in Virginia to the heart of Hollywood is a testament to the power of following one’s passion. While his life was tragically cut short, his legacy lives on through the countless lives he touched, the art he created, and the causes he championed.
As the entertainment world mourns his loss, it also celebrates the indelible mark he left behind. Brad Everett Young was more than an actor or a photographer; he was a beacon of light in an industry often overshadowed by cynicism. And though he is no longer with us, his spirit will continue to inspire for generations to come.
Brad Everett Young’s life reminds us of the enduring power of creativity and compassion. His work and advocacy serve as a poignant reminder that art has the ability to unite, inspire, and transform.