Actor Julien Arnold, a beloved figure on stage, tragically passed away after enduring a sudden medical emergency during a performance of "A Christmas Carol" at the Citadel Theatre in Edmonton, Alberta. On Sunday, November 24th, the 60-year-old actor, who played multiple roles in the Charles Dickens festive classic, fell ill while performing. Paramedics rushed to the scene at 8:28 p.m. local time but, despite their valiant efforts to revive him, Arnold was pronounced dead at the venue.
"Julien's departure has left a gaping void in the hearts of his family, friends, fellow 'Carol' cast members, Citadel staff, and the Edmonton community that he held in such high esteem," stated Arnold's friends at the Citadel in a moving tribute on Monday, November 25th. "He infused every character he portrayed with joy, warmth, and profound depth. His artistic contributions and his heartfelt hugs will be sorely missed. Julien was an exceptionally talented performer whose charm and skill illuminated our stage in numerous productions, most notably 'A Christmas Carol.'"
David Horak, the artistic director of the Free Will Players, of which Arnold was a founding member, added: "Julien had an uncanny ability to create characters with hearts as vast as the world itself, and he was much the same as a person. There is truly no one quite like him."
According to the Canadian Theatre Encyclopaedia, Arnold was born in Tanzania to an English family but moved to Edmonton as a child. He later pursued his studies at the University of Alberta, where he earned a master's degree in directing. In addition to his roles as Marley and Mr. Fezziwig in "A Christmas Carol," he had starred in dozens of shows over the years and founded his own theater company, The Atlas Theatre Collective, in 2008.
Arnold's loved ones have initiated a fundraising campaign to support his wife, Sheiny Satanove, who serves as the managing director of Punctuate! Theatre. "We are deeply appreciative of the overwhelming support shown in Julien's memory and to assist Sheiny during this trying time," they shared via Instagram on Wednesday, November 27th. "Your generosity will alleviate the financial strain of funeral expenses and daily needs as she grapples with her loss. To continue honoring Julien's legacy, we kindly ask you to share this fundraising campaign with your networks, so that those who knew and admired him can contribute. Each share helps us reach more people touched by Julien's life and work, extending the support his family requires. Thank you for standing with Sheiny and for helping celebrate Julien's enduring impact on our community."
Meanwhile, the theater company is grappling with the daunting task of continuing the show without one of its key cast members and most cherished stars. "We kindly request privacy and patience as we focus on supporting Julien's family members, the 'Christmas Carol' cast, staff, and patrons during this difficult period," they said. "Thank you for your ongoing kindness and understanding as we take time to remember Julien and navigate through this challenging time. As we prepare to return to the stage, please know that the 'Carol' family feels the warmth and support of the community as we come together once again to share a story rooted in the importance of compassion, the power of generosity, and the resilience of the human spirit."
