Dayle Haddon, a beloved actor, activist, and former “Sports Illustrated” model, tragically passed away in a Pennsylvania home due to carbon monoxide poisoning. The authorities in Bucks County discovered Haddon, 76, lifeless in a second-floor bedroom on Friday morning, following a report of an unconscious person at the Solebury Township residence. Walter J. Blucas, a 76-year-old man from Erie, was also found at the scene and rushed to the hospital in critical condition.
The investigation revealed that a faulty flue and exhaust pipe on a gas heating system caused the carbon monoxide leak, resulting in the tragic incident. Additionally, two medics and a police officer were treated for carbon monoxide exposure. Haddon, known for gracing the covers of top fashion magazines like Vogue, Cosmopolitan, and Elle in the 1970s and 1980s, also made a notable appearance in the 1973 Sports Illustrated swimsuit issue. Her acting career included roles in approximately twenty films from the 1970s to the 1990s, with a standout performance in the 1994 movie “Bullets Over Broadway” alongside John Cusack.
After taking a hiatus from modeling to raise her daughter, Ryan, in the mid-1970s, Haddon faced age discrimination upon reentering the industry following her husband’s passing in 1991. Despite being told she was not “viable” at 38, Haddon persevered and advocated for representation of aging individuals in the beauty industry. She secured contracts with major cosmetic companies like Clairol, Estée Lauder, and L’Oreal, promoting anti-aging products and serving as a spokesperson for her generation.
In 2008, Haddon founded WomenOne, an organization dedicated to empowering girls and women in marginalized communities across the globe, including Rwanda, Haiti, and Jordan. Her impact extended beyond the modeling world, inspiring many with her advocacy work and dedication to education and gender equality.
Born in Toronto, Haddon initially pursued modeling to fund her ballet training with the Canadian ballet company Les Grands Ballet Canadiens during her teenage years. Her daughter, Ryan, shared a heartfelt tribute on social media, describing Haddon as a champion and inspiration to all. Haddon’s legacy as a trailblazing figure in the fashion industry and a passionate advocate for women’s rights will be remembered and cherished by many.
The news of Dayle Haddon’s untimely passing has deeply saddened her fans and admirers, highlighting the importance of raising awareness about carbon monoxide poisoning and ensuring the safety of residential heating systems. As we mourn the loss of a remarkable talent, let us honor Haddon’s memory by continuing her work to empower and uplift women around the world.
