The holiday season often brings the cherished film “The Grinch” back into the spotlight, spreading joy to audiences worldwide. However, behind the scenes of this festive favorite lies a somber story. Joshua Ryan Evans, who captured hearts as the young Grinch, tragically passed away just two years following the movie’s debut. At the age of 20, Evans succumbed to complications from a medical procedure intended to address a congenital heart condition. His passing occurred in a San Diego hospital in August 2002. Evans, who was 3-foot-2 due to achondroplasia, a form of dwarfism, often appeared much younger than his years. In an eerie twist of fate, the day he died coincided with the airing of an NBC “Passions” episode where his character also faced death after a heart donation.

Evans’ passion for acting was ignited during his childhood, as he spent considerable time recovering from surgeries either at home or in the hospital. Immersed in television and movies, he found inspiration and motivation to pursue an acting career.

“I thought, if it’s all pretend, why can’t I do that?” he reflected in a 2000 interview with the LA Times.

Evans successfully ventured into the acting world, securing roles on popular television series such as “Family Matters,” “Ally McBeal,” “Rugrats,” and “7th Heaven.” He eventually became a household name with his portrayal of Timmy the Living Doll on the NBC soap opera “Passions,” a role he held from 1999 until his untimely death in 2002.

Evans broke into acting with roles on TV shows like Family Matters, Ally McBeal, Rugrats, and 7th Heaven. He later gained fame playing Timmy the Living Doll on the NBC soap opera Passions from 1999 to 2002.

When he landed the role in The Grinch, he said that he enjoyed the role, although parts of the job were daunting, such as his time in the makeup chair. 

His daily routine to become the “Young Grinch” took almost five and a half hours – two hours longer than that of star Jim Carrey.

However, Evans was determined to finish his part, saying: “I would never have forgiven myself if I stopped.”

Originally intended as a minor role, Evans’ portrayal of the young Grinch was expanded by Howard, who praised the actor’s talent and dedication. “He created a character and brought so much heart to the story,” the director shared.

“I love my life,” Evans told E! Online in 2000. “Acting is not only what I do, it’s what I am. I can’t imagine spending my life doing anything else.”