Karyn Dwyer was a Canadian actress who rose to fame for her role as Maggie in the 1999 film Better Than Chocolate, a lesbian-themed romantic comedy that won several awards and earned her a loyal fan base. She also appeared in other films and TV shows, such as Superstar, Republic of Doyle, and The Art of the Steal. She was also a talented stage performer, who starred in plays like Romeo and Juliet, As You Like It, and Suburbia. She also wrote and produced her own one-woman show, Bad Girls, at the Rivoli in Toronto.
However, behind her success and talent, Dwyer struggled with anxiety and depression for most of her life. She lost her father to cancer when she was only 11, and her brother to a car accident when she was in her early 20s. She also faced discrimination and harassment for being a lesbian in the entertainment industry. She tried to cope with her mental health issues by seeking therapy, medication, and support from her friends and family, but she ultimately succumbed to her despair and took her own life on September 25, 2018, at the age of 43, in Toronto, Ontario.
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The Shock and Grief of Her Fans and Colleagues
Dwyer’s death was a shock and a tragedy to many people who knew and loved her, both personally and professionally. Her fans and colleagues expressed their grief and condolences on social media, remembering her as a beautiful, generous, and talented person who touched many lives with her art and her kindness. Some of the tributes came from Frank Chiesurin, who worked with her several times and called her a “beautiful soul” on Instagram, Raoul Bhaneja, who tweeted that they “lost a fine actor and warm human being”, and Molly Shannon, who co-starred with her in Superstar and said that she was “heartbroken” by the news.
A memorial service was held for Dwyer on September 29, 2018, at the Celebrity Club at PAL Toronto, where her friends and family celebrated her life and legacy. Her ashes were scattered in her hometown of Corner Brook, Newfoundland, where she started her acting career as a child.
The Need for More Awareness and Support for Mental Health
Dwyer’s death also highlighted the need for more awareness and support for mental health issues, especially in the entertainment industry, where many artists face stress, pressure, and stigma. According to the Canadian Mental Health Association, one in five Canadians will experience a mental health problem or illness in any given year, and suicide is the second leading cause of death among 15-34 year olds. However, many people do not seek help or treatment due to fear, shame, or lack of resources.
There are many organizations and initiatives that aim to help people with mental health problems, such as the Bell Let’s Talk campaign, the Canadian Association for Suicide Prevention, and the Centre for Addiction and Mental Health. These groups offer information, education, advocacy, and services for people who are struggling with mental health issues, as well as their families and friends. They also encourage people to speak up, reach out, and seek help if they are feeling suicidal or depressed.
Karyn Dwyer’s cause of death was a tragic loss for the Canadian film and theatre community, as well as for her fans around the world. She was a talented and beloved actress who left behind a legacy of memorable performances and inspiring stories. She also left behind a message of hope and courage for anyone who is suffering from mental health issues, and a reminder that they are not alone.
