Is Stephen Collins Living or Dead?

About Stephen Collins

As an actor, Stephen Collins was best known for his role as Reverend Eric Camden on the hit television series 7th Heaven. But in 2014, his career and reputation were shattered when a recording of him confessing to sexual abuse of minors was leaked to the public.

Born in Des Moines, Iowa in 1947, Collins began his acting career in the early 1970s with roles in films like All the President's Men and Star Trek: The Motion Picture. He also appeared on television shows such as The Waltons and Charlie's Angels before landing the role of Eric Camden on 7th Heaven in 1996.

Collins was also a writer, penning several books including the memoirs Double Exposure and The Traitor's Wife. He was a member of the Writers Guild of America and served on its board of directors.

But it was Collins' personal life that would ultimately overshadow his professional accomplishments. In 2012, his wife Faye Grant filed for divorce and in the ensuing legal battle, Collins' history of sexual abuse came to light. He admitted to inappropriate sexual conduct with three underage girls between 1973 and 1994.

The fallout from the scandal was swift and severe. Collins was fired from his role on 7th Heaven and his appearances on other shows were pulled from syndication. He was also dropped by his talent agency and his books were removed from sale.

Collins has since apologized for his actions and sought therapy for his behavior. But the damage to his career and reputation has been irreparable.

References:

- "Stephen Collins: From '7th Heaven' to a Scandalous Fall from Grace" by Tim Kenneally, The Wrap, December 19, 2014

- "Stephen Collins: The Actor Who Played the Perfect Dad" by Rachel Syme, Rolling Stone, December 18, 2014

- "Stephen Collins: The Rise and Fall of a TV Dad" by Emily Yahr, The Washington Post, December 19, 2014