Canadian stage actor Julien Arnold has passed away after suffering a medical emergency during a performance of A Christmas Carol at Edmonton’s Citadel Theatre. Arnold, 60, was performing in multiple roles, including Marley, Mr. Fezziwig, and part of the ensemble, when the incident occurred on November 24, 2024.
Paramedics arrived at the theater at approximately 8:28 p.m. and made several attempts to resuscitate Arnold. Unfortunately, he was pronounced dead on-site, Alberta Health Services spokesperson Kerry Williamson confirmed.
Arnold, a renowned figure in Canadian theater, was a founding member of the Free Will Players, which produces Edmonton’s annual Freewill Shakespeare Festival. Over his decades-long career, he performed in acclaimed productions such as The Taming of the Shrew, The Wizard of Oz, Twelfth Night, and Sense and Sensibility.
In response to the tragedy, Citadel Theatre announced adjustments to the remaining schedule of A Christmas Carol, which runs until December 24, to allow cast and crew time to grieve.
Jessie van Rijn, Citadel Theatre’s executive director, and artistic director Daryl Cloran honored Arnold in a heartfelt statement:
“His presence brought joy, heart, and depth to every role. His artistic contributions—and big hugs—will be deeply missed.”
The theater has requested privacy and patience as they focus on supporting Arnold’s family, the production team, and patrons during this difficult time.