Paul Danan's Hollywood heartbreak as he was 'replaced by Ashton Kutcher' in huge film

Paul Danan shockingly disclosed he was on the brink of Hollywood stardom before his untimely death last month, having missed out on a major film role.

The ex-Hollyoaks actor met with tragedy when he reportedly sustained a fatal injury from a fall at a Bristol residence, passing away at the young age of 46.

Paul earned fame for portraying Sol Patrick in Hollyoaks between 1997 and 2001. He appeared on Celebrity Big Brother and the inaugural season of Love Island in 2005, a time when it featured celebrity contestants.

Struggling with severe addictions to substances such as alcohol and cocaine over the years, Paul has spoken candidly about spending in excess of £1 million on rehab efforts in a fierce battle with his inner demons. Nevertheless, he remained active in reality television and acting since first appearing on the scene in 1997.

He will posthumously grace screens as a character named Brian in an upcoming murder mystery titled Bloody Love later this year. Despite a diverse television career spanning several decades, Paul revealed he once secured a role in the blockbuster film Cheaper by the Dozen in 2003 but was ultimately replaced.

Sharing his experience on the Outlet Ten Discussions Podcast, as reported by the Daily Mail, Paul revealed: "I got this Steve Martin film, called Cheaper by the Dozen—I was going to play the boyfriend of the daughter. They gave me the part, but then the director bumped into Ashton Kutcher," reports the Mirror.

"He'd just done Just Married with Brittany Murphy and he [director] said, 'Oh, I've got this English guy, but if you want to do it, Ashton, you can?' And he [Ashton] went, 'Yeah, man, I'll do you a favour.' And they phoned me and they said, 'Paul we're really sorry, we know we said that, you know we loved you, but it's Ashton Kutcher, for f**k's sake! '".

During the podcast, host Anne-Marie inquired whether he subscribes to the idea that everything happens for a reason, to which Paul responded: "I mean, I don't know with that one. That was a hard one. I was meant to work with Steve Martin. My mum loved him, I phoned her and said, 'Guess f**ing what? I've done it! ' You know? ".

"It did get me down and out there there's a lot of drugs, there's a lot of partying, and there's a lot of gym and wellness and fit people and everyone looks amazing, and I just was on my own. I didn't have anyone and I was so lonely and it was hard man."

The full interview is scheduled to be broadcast on Sunday 2 February.

Last month, Independent Creative PR announced Paul's death in a statement, expressing deep sorrow: "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."