Dayle Haddon, a prominent Canadian model and actress, died on Dec. 27, 2024, at 76. Authorities believe carbon monoxide poisoning caused her death, highlighting the ongoing investigation.
Discovery at Pennsylvania Residence
In Solebury Township, Pennsylvania, authorities discovered Haddon unresponsive in a second-floor bedroom of a detached in-law suite at Ryan Haddon’s home. First responders entered after a 911 call reported an unconscious man on the first floor. The man, 76, identified as Walter Blucas, was taken to Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital in critical condition.
Faulty Heating System Identified
Investigators found a broken flue and exhaust pipe from the gas heating system behind the carbon monoxide leak. The New Hope Eagle Volunteer Fire Company detected high levels of carbon monoxide on the property. Two medics received treatment for exposure, while an officer was given on-site care.
A Celebrated Career in Fashion and Film
Born in 1948 in Montreal, Haddon rose to fame in the 1970s and 1980s, appearing on the covers of magazines like Vogue, Elle, and Cosmopolitan. She shattered industry barriers when she became the face of major cosmetic brands like Revlon, Max Factor, Estée Lauder, and L’Oréal, marketing beauty to women over 35.
Haddon also studied acting and appeared in films such as “The World’s Greatest Athlete” (1973), “North Dallas Forty” (1979), and Woody Allen’s “Bullets Over Broadway” (1994).
Philanthropic Endeavors
Outside of her entertainment career, Haddon was also a devoted philanthropist. She founded WomenOne, a nonprofit devoted to bringing quality education to girls worldwide. As a UNICEF ambassador, she has traveled to places like Darfur, Haiti, and Bolivia, championing women’s and children’s rights.
Family Tributes
Haddon’s daughter, Ryan, paid tribute to her mother on Instagram, calling her “a woman in her power, yet soft and attentive to all.” She spoke of her mother’s creativity, kindness, and spiritual depth, saying Haddon was “everyone’s greatest champion” and “an inspiration to many.”
Final Professional Engagements
A few months before her death, Haddon modeled in a “To Catch a Thief”-themed photo shoot for Vogue’s September issue. She worked alongside Blake Lively and Hugh Jackman, noting how professional and generous they were on set.
Safety Reminder
This tragedy highlights the risks of carbon monoxide, an odorless, colorless gas. To prevent such tragedies, officials are urging residents to regularly maintain heating systems and install carbon monoxide detectors.