Tamer Hassan gets helicopter back to the UK for Paul Danan’s funeral as he shares emotional farewell message to friend
MOVIE hardman Tamer Hassan took a helicopter back to the UK for his friend Paul Danan’s funeral.
The Layer Cake actor shared an emotional farewell message as he attended the service in Watham Abbey, Essex.
He had travelled from the snowy mountains abroad to pay his respects.
In a video on Instagram, Tamer said: “So we’re heading back and for the first part of the trip, here’s our little baby.
“Looking forward to heading home.”
He then posted outside of the funeral where Boyzone‘s Shane Lynch and Hollyoaks stars gathered, telling fans: “Paul, we’re here.
“Mr Danan, rest in peace. Safe travels to the other side.
“You’re going to be missed, my friend.
“You take care, and I’m sure I’ll see you soon. God bless.”
His friend, who was in the background, interjected to say: “Not too soon I hope”, as Tamer agreed: “Not too soon.”
Love Island and Hollyoaks icon Paul tragically died last week aged 46.
The star, who comes from a Moroccan Jewish family, has been buried less than a week after being found dead at a property near Bristol.
His death was announced by Paul’s management in a message, which read: “It is with heavy hearts that we share the tragic news of the passing of Paul Danan at just 46 years old.
“Known for his television presence, exceptional talent, and unwavering kindness, Paul was a beacon of light to so many.
“His untimely departure will leave irreplaceable voids in the lives of all who knew him.
“During this difficult time, we kindly request respect and privacy for Paul’s family, friends, and colleagues.
“No further comments will be made at this time.”
Behind the headlines, Paul was a sweet, vulnerable, big-hearted guy
BY Oliver Grady, Assistant Showbiz Editor
Paul Danan may have grabbed his share of column inches over his all too short 46 years, from his colourful love life to his well-documented struggles with addiction, but behind the headlines, there was a very sweet, vulnerable, big-hearted guy.
I’ve met and spoken with Paul many times over the years and have always had a soft spot for him. He was funny, articulate, smart and great company.
Yes, he had his demons, but he was very open about them and was always striving to be a better version of himself.
He was extremely proud of his theatre company, The Morning After, which he set up to help fellow addicts work through their trauma through drama and acting.
While he seemed lost at times, and on several occasions opened up to me about his struggle to be taken seriously in the industry after his private life exploits overshadowed his professional accomplishments, he clearly found a purpose in supporting others and helping them stay on the path of recovery.
There was only one thing Paul was prouder of than his recovery and his theatre company, and that was his son DeNiro.
Paul lit up when he spoke about his boy, and looked forward to spending the weekends with him as he co-parented with the lad’s mum.
His whatsapp photo was him beaming with DeNiro, and he loved to talk about his offspring’s accomplishments and his hopes for his future.
It breaks my heart that DeNiro now has to go through the rest of his life without his dad, and Paul will never see him grow up.
I last heard from Paul at Christmas, when he left me a voicenote saying he had some exciting things planned for 2025.
I told him we’d catch up in the New Year, but sadly we never got the chance to.
I’ll miss you Paul. You were one of life’s good ones.