Shannon Price Fails Lie Detector Test Regarding Gary Coleman's Death
Shannon Price, the ex-wife of late actor Gary Coleman, recently appeared on A&E's "Lie Detector: Truth or Deception," where she underwent a polygraph test concerning the circumstances surrounding Coleman's death in 2010. The results indicated deception when Price denied physically causing Coleman's fatal fall. Former FBI agent George Olivo, the polygraph examiner, expressed strong conviction that more information remains undisclosed.
Inconclusive Results and Price's Claims
While Price denied causing the fall, the polygraph test yielded inconclusive results regarding whether she withheld aid from Coleman after his injury. Price admitted she "could have helped him a little bit more," but maintained her innocence, stating she had no choice but to remove Coleman from life support based on doctors' advice. She cited his critical condition following cardiac arrest and his pre-existing severe health problems, including congenital kidney disease, which had previously given him a less-than-a-year life expectancy.
Timeline of Events: From Fall to Legal Battles
Gary Coleman suffered a fatal head injury from a fall at his Utah home on May 26, 2010. Two days later, on May 28, 2010, Price instructed the hospital to remove him from life support. Coleman died at the age of 42. In October 2010, police ruled Coleman's death accidental, finding no evidence of foul play, and Price was never charged. The couple had married in August 2007, divorced in 2008, but continued to live together. A significant element of the controversy stems from Coleman's 2005 will, naming his former girlfriend and manager, Anna Gray, as his sole inheritor. Price claimed to possess a codicil altering the will in her favor, a claim complicated by the divorce.
Legal Ramifications and Public Speculation
In May 2012, a probate court judge ruled that Price did not have a common-law marriage with Coleman at the time of his death, preventing her from inheriting his estate. This ruling likely solidified Anna Gray's position as the primary beneficiary. The 2024 Peacock documentary, "GARY," reignited public speculation about Price's role in Coleman's death, featuring interviews with friends and family who expressed suspicion about her actions. The A&E special, airing July 10, 2025, further intensified public scrutiny.
Key Players and Their Roles
The situation involves several key players. Gary Coleman, the beloved child star of "Diff'rent Strokes," battled lifelong health issues. Shannon Price, his ex-wife and holder of his Advanced Health Care Directive, made the decision to remove him from life support. Coleman's family and friends have consistently expressed doubts about Price's actions, particularly regarding her behavior during the 911 call. Medical professionals at Utah Valley Regional Medical Center advised Price on Coleman's condition and the unlikelihood of recovery; they were reportedly unaware of the divorce. Law enforcement conducted an investigation, ultimately concluding the death was accidental. Anna Gray, Coleman's former girlfriend and manager, remains the likely heir to his estate.
The Ongoing Controversy and Public Perception
The central controversy revolves around the circumstances of Coleman's fall, Price's actions (or inaction) during the 911 call, and the speed with which life support was withdrawn. The lie detector results, despite Price's denials, have significantly fueled public speculation and debate. While Price hasn't faced criminal charges, the ongoing public scrutiny and the polygraph results continue to shape public perception of her involvement in Coleman's death. This ongoing debate may lead to renewed public calls for a re-examination of the evidence, although official investigations have concluded.
The A&E Docuseries and its Impact
A&E's "Lie Detector: Truth or Deception" episode featuring Shannon Price aimed to address lingering questions surrounding Gary Coleman's death. The airing of this docuseries, and the subsequent reporting of the results, have undeniably reignited public discussion and scrutiny of the events surrounding Coleman's final days and Price's role in them.
