Michael Kerns, actor and HIV/AIDS activist, dies at 76

Actor and AIDS activist Michael Kerns has died at the age of 76. His death was confirmed by friends, including journalist Karen Okamb, who stated he passed away on October 5. Filmmaker Roland Palensia noted that Kerns had faced significant health issues in the months leading up to his death, including multiple emergency room visits, though a specific cause of death has not been released.

Kerns is widely recognized for his role as Hal in the series ‘Beverly Hills’ and for being the first Hollywood actor to publicly disclose his HIV-positive status in 1991. His decision to speak openly during a period of intense stigma and discrimination was a landmark moment for the LGBTQ+ community and AIDS activism.

Beyond his acting career, which included appearances in ‘Body Double’ and the Emmy-winning ‘And the Band Played On’, Kerns was a dedicated advocate for those living with HIV. He once stated that he spoke out to ensure people with HIV felt no shame regarding their diagnosis.