Scott Baio Explains 'Joanie' Comments After Backlash

He suggested death of former 'Happy Days' co-star was due to drugs
By Newser Editors and Wire Services
Posted Apr 25, 2017 10:46 AM CDT
Scott Baio Explains 'Joanie' Comments After Backlash
Erin Moran, seen in a 2008 file photo.   (Matt Sayles)

Scott Baio says he was responding to media reports when he suggested the death of his former Happy Days and Joanie Loves Chachi co-star Erin Moran may have been due to substance abuse problems. Authorities in Indiana said Monday that Moran likely died from cancer at her home on Saturday at the age of 56. Earlier in the day, Baio told New York's WABC radio about Moran's death that "if you do drugs or drink, you're going to die," but added that he didn't know if drugs or alcohol were the cause, reports the AP.

Baio's comments drew a backlash on social media. He clarified in a Facebook post that he had heard reports that Moran died of a heroin overdose and the radio interview took place before authorities mentioned her cancer. He writes that after seeing those heroin-related headlines he felt "very upset and angry. This is one of my worse fears for her, or anyone else. Especially in this business. I was on an emotional rollercoaster. I hadn't slept well since the news of her passing." He says he gave the interview in question at 6am PDT Monday, and only learned the true cause of death later that day. Baio says he's "heartbroken" over Moran's death. (More Scott Baio stories.)

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