'NYPD Blue' Star Dennis Franz Pays Tribute to Co-Star Austin Majors After Death

Majors played Franz's character's son in 'NYPD Blue' for seven seasons.

Former child actor Austin Majors died at the age of 27 on Feb. 11 and his NYPD Blue co-star, Dennis Franz, shared his thoughts following his passing.

In a statement to ET, Franz said, "I was so shocked and saddened to hear of Austin's passing. Austin was always such a joy to have on the set, he brought smiles and happiness to everyone."

"Some of my favorite scenes during the 12 years of NYPD Blue are with 'Sipowicz' and 'Theo,'" he continued.

Franz described what it was like on set with Majors filming NYPD Blue: "Every day that Austin worked I would greet him with a special song, 'It's Austin Major's Day' sung to the tune of 'Howdy Doody Time.'"

"Although we haven't stayed in touch since the show ended in 2005, I will always remember him fondly. My love and condolences to his family," concluded Franz.

While Majors had quite a few notable roles throughout his career as a child actor, he was most well-known for playing Theo Sipowicz in NYPD Blue, the son of Franz's Detective Andy Sipowicz.

Throughout the series, Sipowicz falls in love with and eventually marries Assistant District Attorney Sylvia Costas, played by Sharon Lawrence, and soon after, they welcome Theo.

Theo remains by his father's side and keeps him grounded as Sipowicz deals with tragic losses, like Costas' death, along with many tough cases.

At the time of his death, Majors was reportedly living in a homeless shelter, and he is believed to have died due to ingesting fentanyl.

Majors' family said in a statement to TMZ, "[Austin] was a loving, artistic, brilliant, and kind human being. Austin took great joy and pride in his acting career. He was an active Eagle Scout and graduated Salutatorian in High School. He went on to graduate from USC’s School of Cinematic Arts with a passion of directing and music producing."

If you or someone you know is struggling with substance abuse, please contact the SAMHSA helpline at 1-800-662-HELP.