Joshua Andrew Koenig, 41, best known for playing the role of Kirk Cameron’s best friend Richard “Boner” Stabone on the ‘80’s television series, Growing Pains, was found dead in Vancouver’s Stanley Park.  He had apparently taken his own life after a long battle with depression.
Reported missing by his parents, Walter and Judy Koenig, on February 14, Andrew had missed a flight back to the United States.  He had been despondent in the days prior to his disappearance.  His body was discovered on February 24, but police are not releasing any information on the cause of death until a thorough investigation has been concluded.
Andrew’s father Walter Koenig, best known for playing Ensign Pavel Chekov on the original Star Trek television series made a plea to the public by saying, “If you can learn anything from this, it’s that there are people out there who really care, and you may not think so, and ultimately it may not be enough, but … before you make that final decision, check it out again, talk to somebody.”
Even though Andrew Koenig was best known for his recurring role on ABC’s Growing Pains, he did become quite popular among comic book fans for his portrayal of The Joker in the short fan-made film Batman: Dead End.  Made by Sandy Collora and released in 2003, Koenig turned in such a riveting performance as The Joker, fans considered his role to be the best adaptation of the comic book villain.  It is a matter of some debate that Heath Ledger turned in the closest representation of The Joker in 2008’s The Dark Knight.  No doubt, fans will miss both actors who successfully gave their own spin on the Clown Prince of Crime.  Ironically, Ledger passed away in January of 2008.

R.I.P.  Andrew Koenig.

National Suicide Prevention Hotline accepts calls 24-hours-a-day, seven-days-a-week at (800) 273-8255.  You will be connected with a free and confidential crisis center in the Lifeline network closest to your location.