David Cassidy, ‘The Partridge Family,’ Star, Dies At 67

David Cassidy, one of the beloved stars of The Partridge Family, has died at age 67, his publicist announced Tuesday night.

David Cassidy Death News

“On behalf of the entire Cassidy family, it is with great sadness that we announce the passing of our father, our uncle, and our dear brother, David Cassidy,” the former teen idol’s publicist JoAnn Geffen said in a statement. “David died surrounded by those he loved, with joy in his heart and free from the pain that had gripped him for so long. Thank you for the abundance and support you have shown him these many years.”

Cassidy reportedly died of organ failure Tuesday in Fort Lauderdale, Florida.

Cassidy played heartthrob Keith on the 1970s ABC musical-sitcom series. Keith, the oldest of Shirley Jones’ widowed character Shirley Partridge’s five children, was the lead vocalist and also played the guitar and banjo in the fictional family’s band.

In 2008, Cassidy publicly revealed that he had struggled with alcohol-related issues. He also had substance abuse problems, which landed him in rehab in 2014.

He is survived by his son Beau with ex-wife Sue Shifrin-Cassidy; his daughter Katie; his brothers Shaun, Patrick and Ryan; step-mother Shirley Jones; and numerous nieces, nephews and cousins. Plans for a memorial service will be announced at a later date.

Cassidy revealed that he suffered from dementia, and he filed for bankruptcy in 2015, a year during which he was also charged in a hit-and-run accident.

Earlier this year, Cassidy drew headlines when a video of him slurring his words surfaced. He was struggling to remember lyrics during a concert in Agoura Hills, California.

On the Dr. Phil show in March, Cassidy was asked what he wished to be remembered for.

“Spreading love,” he said. “Bringing light into people’s lives. Giving everything in my heart and soul, because I know I’m a living, caring human being. I don’t mind being remembered for being an alcoholic. I don’t mind being that.”

Here are some celebrity tributes to Cassidy: