‘County Rescue’ Actor Keller Scott Fornes Dead at 32

Keller Scott Fornes, best known for his role in Great American Family’s County Rescue, has died at the age of 32.

According to an obituary published by Lacy Funeral Home, the actor and writer passed away on Thursday, December 19, 2024, in Eastland, Texas. No cause of death was given.

Fornes starred as Griffin in the medical drama, which was preparing to begin production on its second season this month. Following his death, Great American Media released a statement honoring Fornes: “We at Great American Media are deeply saddened by the passing of Keller Fornes. He was a special person and talent as an actor, writer, and director as well as a singer and musician. His energy and enthusiasm lifted all he worked with here at Great American Media and the cast and crew of County Rescue. Our prayers are with his family and all those he touched.”

Fornes posted on Instagram on December 14, just five days before his death, sharing behind-the-scenes snapshots and memories with his family.

According to his obituary, Fornes grew up in Texas, and earned a bachelor’s degree in fine arts from the University of North Texas. He was described by loved ones as artistic, with talents for painting, drawing, singing and playing the guitar as well as acting, writing and producing his own independent films.

Fornes wrote and directed several short films, including the 2019 documentary The Buddy I Never Met, as well as appearing in independent films including Anney in the City,  Beast Beast, The E-Listers: Life Back in the Lane and The Secrets She Keeps. He also played a Tower Trooper in a 2022 episode of The Walking Dead.

He also found success as a personal trainer, and had won medals for boxing.

“It was pure joy to work with Keller!” Fornes’s colleague Shari Rigby wrote via Instagram.  “He was such a kind, encouraging soul! You will be greatly missed my friend! Honored and forever changed by his life!”

Julia Reilly, another County Rescue star, also expressed her grief, simply writing “Miss you” alongside a photograph of the pair.

American Idol singer Colton Dixon, who briefly worked with Fornes, also paid tribute to the star, writing “Was so saddened to hear about this. We only met briefly during my work on County Rescue, but he was incredibly kind and purposeful with his words. Prayers for his friends and family.”

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Actress Lauren Swickard, known for her roles in Roped and A California Christmas, commented: “I am forever grateful for his friendship. What an honor it was to work with him. What a wonderful person we’ve lost.”

Fornes is survived by wife Margie, his parents and two brothers. A memorial service is scheduled for Saturday, January 11, at Cowboy Church of Erath County in Stephenville, Texas.