Paul Teal

Paul Joseph Teal (July 18, 1989 – November 15, 2024) was an American actor of film, television and theatre, from Wilmington, North Carolina. He was best known for portraying Josh Avery in the American drama One Tree Hill, in its seventh season. A graduate of the William Esper Studio and the T. Schreiber Studio, Teal debuted in acting with One Tree Hill in 2010 and had minor and recurring roles in productions until his death in 2024.

Early life and education Paul Joseph Teal was born in Wilmington, North Carolina, on July 18, 1989. He started taking part in theatrical productions at the age of 12, going by the stage name "JoJo". As a teenager, Teal performed at musicals in Wilmington as a part of choirs. He graduated from John T. Hoggard High School. Teal later received training from the William Esper Studio and the T. Schreiber Studio.

Career Teal's credits include American Rust, Shots Fired, George & Tammy, The Staircase, Dynasty, Fear Street Part Two: 1978, Descendants: The Rise of Red, Good Behavior, Outer Banks, The Walking Dead: World Beyond, Deep Water, and Lilly. He also had a role in The Hunting Wives, which was released after his death, in 2025. Teal's last appearances were on Lilly and Descendants: The Rise of Red.

Teal was best known for his role as Josh Avery on One Tree Hill, whom he portrayed during the seventh season of the series, for seven episodes. It was his first television appearance.

Teal frequently performed at local Wilmington theatres; including the Opera House Theatre Company, the Thalian Association Community Theatre and the Techmoja Dance and Theater Company.

Personal life and death Teal was dating a fellow Outer Banks and The Hunting Wives actor from September 2022.

Teal was found to have a neuroendocrine tumor in his pancreas in April 2024. He died of the disease at a hospital in Raleigh, North Carolina, on November 15, 2024, at age 35.

Filmography