Nelsan Ellis struggled with addiction prior to his untimely death at the age of 39. According to the True Blood alum?s family, the actor had abused drugs and alcohol for years prior to his recent passing. In a statement issued through the late star?s manager, Emily Gerson Saines, Nelsan?s father revealed he wanted to share his sons? problems in an effort to help other people who are dealing with the same demons. A spokesperson shares, ?Nelsan?s father has bravely agreed for me to share the circumstances of Nelsan?s heart failure."