Producers Of Gary Coleman's Last Film Collect For Kidney Charity In Late Actor's Name
Jun. 1 2010, Published 9:45 a.m. ET
Producers of the late Gary Coleman’s final film, the straight-to-DVD release entitled Midgets vs. Mascots, are taking donations for the National Kidney Foundation in memory of the Diff'rent Strokes star who died last week at 42, RadarOnline.com has learned.
"Gary spent his life fighting kidney disease, and we can think of no better way to honor his memory than to donate to an organization helping others with a similar ailment," the producers said on the film's Web site, MidgetsvsMascots.com. "During this difficult time, we are thinking about Gary's loved ones, and reflecting on the years of wonderful entertainment he provided to all of us."
Coleman's kidney disease stunted his growth and led to the actor receiving two kidney transplants and daily dialysis.
Coleman's work on Midgets vs. Mascots was marked by controversy, as the actor had a public spat with the filmmakers, accusing them of showing him naked in the film without his permission. Both sides eventually settled when, according to UPI, the producers bailed the diminutive star out of a Utah jail following a January arrest on assualt charges, leading Coleman to call it a wash.
Coleman died Friday in a Provo, Utah hospital after suffering an intracranial hemorrhage; funeral arrangements are still pending.
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