Disney Star Michael Galeota Died Of Heart Disease

Michael Galeota, the Disney star who died earlier this year, had been suffering from high blood pressure and heart disease.

Michael Galeota’s Cause of Death

When Galeota was found dead at the age of 31, a cause of death was not immediately revealed. However, Galeota’s death certificate indicates that the actor had died from atherosclerosis heart disease brought on by a history of hypertension, reports TMZ. Atherosclerosis is when the artery wall is clogged with plaque build-up.

Galeota was discovered lying unconscious in his living room by a friend back in January, and was soon pronounced dead. At the time, it was made known that Galeota had been dealing with high cholesterol and was battling diverticulitis, an inflammation of the digestive tract. A week prior to his death, Galeota had admitted himself into the hospital complaining of abdominal pains. Days later, Galeota had checked himself out of the hospital against doctor’s advice.

Galeota is best known for playing Nick Lighting on Disney’s The Jersey from 1999-2004. He got his start on TV in The Baby-Sitters Club, and went on to guest star on ER and Ally McBeal, and play the lead on Bailey Kipper’s P.O.V. He also appeared in features Bushwacked, Clubhouse Detectives and Can’t Be Heaven.