Talented actor and photographer taken too soon in devastating highway accident—what really happened?

Hollywood is mourning a beloved figure whose smile lit up both the red carpet and behind the camera.

Brad Everett Young, known for his photography and acting, was suddenly taken from the world in a tragic freeway accident.

Friends and colleagues are remembering him not just for his talent, but for the kindness he shared so freely.

Brad Everett Young, 46, died on 14 September 2025 when his car was struck by a vehicle travelling in the wrong direction on the 134 Freeway.

He had been driving alone after seeing a movie, and emergency crews confirmed his death at the scene, while the other driver survived and was hospitalised.

Born on 24 July 1979 in Danville, Virginia, Young developed a love for storytelling early in life.

He attended Chatham High School and Averett University, where he served as editor in chief of both his high school newspaper and college newsmagazine.

His journalism roots would later shape a career defined by capturing unforgettable Hollywood moments.

Acting and Photography Career

Young began acting in 1999, appearing in Forever, Boy Meets World, and Felicity, with later roles on Charmed, Beverly Hills, 90210, The Practice, Charlie’s Angels, and Grey’s Anatomy.

Yet it was behind the camera where he truly excelled, producing work for publications including The Hollywood Reporter, Vanity Fair, Vogue, Elle, Harper’s Bazaar, People, and Variety.

His photography portfolio included portraits of David Harbour, Seth Green, Emma Caulfield Ford, Kevin Daniels, Sarah Michelle Gellar and Harvey Guillén, showcasing not only technical skill but a genuine care for his subjects.

Young built relationships that extended far beyond professional obligations, earning him a devoted following of over 2 million on social media.

Philanthropy and Friendships

Young also founded Dream Loud Official, a grassroots initiative supporting music and arts programs in schools nationwide.

This project reflected his lifelong belief in nurturing creativity, just as his own artistic talents had been cultivated in Virginia.

He was renowned for loyalty to friends, including the late Paul Walker, to whom he paid tribute on social media in December 2024.

Young recalled their friendship in a lengthy post, saying: 'Your friendship when I first moved to LA & generous amounts of advice will not soon be forgotten. Because of it I still pay it forward to any friends starting in the biz. We all rise together' as we so often would say.'

Hollywood Reactions

The soap opera community felt Young’s loss deeply.

Parry Shen shared on social media: 'Brad Everett Young was one of the kindest & generous people I have ever met. But the one trait that made him truly stand out in this business often filled with cynicism, was his indomitable positivity. He was always striving to make the situation better.'

Chris McKenna, who plays Jack on General Hospital, posted recent images taken by Young with the caption: 'These were taken just a couple weeks ago by the late @bradley206 We won't see another like him.'

Former actor Bryan Craig, who played Morgan, added: 'This is never the type of article you want to post for someone you know. This is devastating. R.I.P. to a great guy that always had a smile on.'

Young was known for refusing payment when photographing friends and often helped set up at events to promote others’ careers.

Lily Melgar, known for playing ex-Lilly on General Hospital, wrote: 'Rest in paradise, my love. My heart aches as I lose another friend. This is so incredibly tragic... My favourite photographer in L.A., my buddy—a good seed.'

Brad Everett Young’s story reminds us of the lasting impact one individual can have through creativity and dedication to their craft.

If you were moved by his legacy, you might find inspiration in the life of another legendary artist who shaped an entire era of music.

Exploring these stories can offer insight into how passion and talent leave a mark that resonates far beyond a single lifetime.

Read more: Songwriting legend behind era-defining hits passes away at 86, leaving lasting musical legacy

Have you ever been inspired by someone in the entertainment industry who used their success to lift others?