Keller Scott Fornes, widely recognized for his role as Griffin in the medical drama “County Rescue” produced by Great American Family, passed away on December 19, 2024, in Eastland, Texas. He was 32 years old. Linda McAlister, his agent, confirmed his passing on January 7, 2025, but did not reveal the cause of death.
Fornes, born on April 22, 1992, in Lubbock, Texas, demonstrated an early passion for the performing arts, participating in middle and high school productions. He later obtained a fine arts bachelor’s degree from the University of North Texas (UNT), where he was a leader in the ATO fraternity and consistently achieved Dean’s honor roll status. He was part of the wrestling team at Texas State University before transferring to UNT.
Upon graduating, Fornes relocated to Atlanta, Georgia, where he juggled an embryonic acting career with amateur boxing. His boxing talent was recognized when he secured a gold medal in the Golden Gloves competition in the Georgia division. Between 2015 and 2016, he wrote and directed three short films, “Luminary,” “Insane,” and “Has Been,” marking his entrance into the entertainment sector.
His career reached a turning point with “County Rescue,” a drama that offers insight into the lives of EMTs and paramedics. The show, masterminded by Brian Baugh, started its second season in the summer of 2024. Fornes starred with Julia Reilly, Riley Hough, Percy Bell, Kristin Wollett, Brett Varvel, Stacey Patino, Tim Ross, Angel Luis, and Curtia Torbert. The second season had completed filming before his passing, with the premiere scheduled for this month.
The Great American Family expressed their grief over Fornes’ death in a statement: “He was a unique talent and individual, excelling as an actor, writer, director, singer, and musician. His energy and enthusiasm inspired all at Great American Media and the County Rescue cast and crew.”
Fornes made appearances in several prominent TV shows throughout his career, such as “The Walking Dead,” “Homicide Hunter,” “Genius,” and “Found.” His filmography includes roles in “Somnium” (2022), “Origin” (2023), “Do You Believe?” (2021), and “Buried Secrets” (2021). His last film, “Hellbilly Hollow,” was finished before his death.
He openly discussed his journey to recovery from alcoholism, celebrating three years of sobriety in a social media post in 2022.
Besides his work in the entertainment industry, Fornes was actively involved in his community. He took part in the Young Life mentoring program, mentoring youth through his church. An accomplished musician, he regularly performed as a singer and guitarist while dedicating time to painting and drawing.
His “County Rescue” co-stars expressed their sorrow following his passing. Julia Reilly posted photos with Fornes on her Instagram Story, captioning them “miss you.” Kristin Wollett shared a Reel montage, stating Fornes is “in our hearts, always.” Colton Dixon and Candace Cameron Bure, his colleagues, also paid tribute.
Fornes is survived by his wife, Margie; parents, Kimberly Lynn Turney-Fornes and Kobe Scott Fornes; brothers Charles “Keaton” Fornes and Kason Lynn Fornes; nephew, grandparents, and other extended family members.