Keller Scott Fornes, a Texas-born actor acclaimed for his role as Griffin in the medical drama “County Rescue” aired by Great American Family, passed away on December 19, 2024, in Eastland, Texas. Fornes was 32 years old at the time of his death, which was confirmed by his agent Linda McAlister on January 7, 2025. The cause of death remains undisclosed.
Fornes was born in Lubbock, Texas on April 22, 1992, and demonstrated a passion for the performing arts from a young age, participating in middle and high school productions. He attended the University of North Texas (UNT), earning a bachelor’s degree in fine arts. At UNT, Fornes was a prominent figure in the ATO fraternity and consistently made the Dean’s honor roll. Prior to transferring to UNT, he had a short stint on the wrestling team at Texas State University.
Upon graduation, Fornes relocated to Atlanta, Georgia, where he juggled his burgeoning acting career with amateur boxing. He won a gold medal in the Golden Gloves competition in the Georgia division. Fornes also ventured into the world of film, writing and directing three short films, “Luminary,” “Insane,” and “Has Been,” between 2015 and 2016.
Fornes’ career took a significant leap with his role in “County Rescue,” a series that explores the professional and personal lives of EMTs and paramedics. The series, created by Brian Baugh, was in the process of producing its second season in the summer of 2024. Fornes starred alongside other noteworthy actors like Julia Reilly, Riley Hough, Percy Bell, Kristin Wollett, Brett Varvel, Stacey Patino, Tim Ross, Angel Luis, and Curtia Torbert. The second season had finished production before Fornes’ death, and its premiere is scheduled for this month.
In a statement by Great American Family, the network expressed its sorrow over the loss of Fornes, praising his talent as an actor, writer, and director as well as his contributions as a singer and musician. They acknowledged his energy and enthusiasm as a valuable asset to everyone he collaborated with at Great American Media and on the set of County Rescue.
Throughout his career, Fornes made several appearances in popular television series like “The Walking Dead,” “Homicide Hunter,” “Genius,” and “Found.” His filmography includes roles in “Somnium” (2022), “Origin” (2023), “Do You Believe?” (2021), and “Buried Secrets” (2021). He completed his final film, “Hellbilly Hollow,” before his demise.
Publicly, Fornes acknowledged his struggle with alcoholism and celebrated three years of being sober in a social media post in 2022.
Beyond his successful career in the entertainment industry, Fornes was an active participant in his local community. He volunteered in the Young Life mentoring program through his church, interacting with the youth. An accomplished musician, Fornes frequently performed as a singer and guitarist, while also pursuing painting and drawing.
Following his death, tributes poured in from his “County Rescue” co-stars. Julia Reilly posted images with Fornes on her Instagram Story, expressing her grief. Kristin Wollett shared a Reel montage on Instagram, stating Fornes will always be remembered. Colton Dixon and Candace Cameron Bure, amongst others, also paid their respects.
Fornes is survived by his wife, Margie; his parents, Kimberly Lynn Turney-Fornes and Kobe Scott Fornes; his brothers, Charles “Keaton” Fornes and Kason Lynn Fornes; and extended family, including his nephew and grandparents.
