Former child star from How to Eat Fried Worms dies at 33 after medical emergency

Blake Garrett, the former child actor who starred in the 2006 family film How to Eat Fried Worms, has died at just 33 years old, following a sudden medical emergency. His family is awaiting autopsy results to understand what led to his tragic passing.

Blake Garrett — born Nolan Blake Garrett — was best known for playing Plug in How to Eat Fried Worms, a movie many millennials remember fondly for its mix of gross-out dares and heartwarming lessons about friendship and courage. The film featured a cast of young actors who went on to win the Young Artist Award for Best Young Ensemble.

Though his screen time was brief in Hollywood, Blake left a lasting impression. In the movie, he played one of the quirky kids involved in a bet to eat worms, making audiences laugh and cringe in equal measure. It was the kind of film that became a rite of passage for 2000s kids.

Long before his movie debut, Blake was already shining onstage in his hometown of Austin, Texas. He performed in local theater productions like Aladdin and His Magical Lamp, The Wizard of Oz, Annie, and Grease. At just 10 years old, he joined the national tour of Barney’s Colorful World, bringing smiles to audiences across the country.

Acting wasn’t just a hobby — it was a deep passion from early on. Friends and family say Blake had a natural spark and could light up any room, whether he was onstage or just being himself.

In recent years, Blake had been living in Tulsa, Oklahoma. According to his mother, Carol Garrett, he had been sober for three years and was proud of his progress. “He worked hard to stay clean,” she shared, noting that he had been taking steps toward rebuilding his life with purpose and hope.

However, just days before his passing, Blake went to the emergency room with severe pain and was diagnosed with shingles — a painful condition that can affect nerves. Carol believes he may have attempted to ease the pain on his own, and fears his death may have been a tragic accident rather than an intentional act.

“He was on a good path,” she said. “He was moving forward.”

Blake’s death has left many who knew him — and fans who grew up watching him — in shock. Tributes have begun to appear on social media, with former co-stars and fans sharing their memories and condolences.

He was more than just a childhood actor. He was a son, a friend, and someone who worked hard to rise above his struggles. His story, though heartbreaking, also reminds us of how important support, understanding, and second chances can be.

Blake Garrett was only 33.

Rest in peace, Blake. You made childhood a little more fun — and left your mark.