Christian Cousins, 'Kindergarten Cop' Child Star, Dies at 43 After Liver Disease Battle
Christian Cousins, the former child actor who shared the role of Dominic in the 1990 comedy 'Kindergarten Cop' with his twin brother Joseph, has died at the age of 43. He passed away in October following a battle with liver disease. His death was announced by his half-brother Jonas Roeser on social media. Cousins and Joseph were also well-known for their identical roles on the CBS soap opera 'Knots Landing' in the late 1980s and early 1990s. After retiring from acting in 1995, Cousins worked in the furniture industry and co-owned a CBD business. He is survived by his twin brother Joseph and half-brother Roeser.
Key points
- Christian Cousins died at age 43 after suffering from liver disease.
- His half-brother Jonas Roeser announced the passing on Instagram on October 22, 2026.
- Cousins is best known for playing Dominic in 'Kindergarten Cop' alongside Arnold Schwarzenegger.
- He and his twin brother Joseph also appeared in 57 episodes of 'Knots Landing'.
- Cousins retired from acting in 1995 and later worked in the furniture industry and CBD business.
Background
Christian Cousins began his acting career in the late 1980s, appearing in 'Highway to Heaven' before his film debut in 'Kindergarten Cop'. He and his twin brother Joseph were frequently cast together due to their identical appearances, including roles in 'Knots Landing' and 'Kindergarten Cop'. After retiring from acting in 1995, Cousins transitioned to other careers, including work in the furniture industry and co-owning a CBD business. His death was announced by his half-brother Jonas Roeser, who noted that Cousins had been very sick with liver disease. The announcement highlighted Cousins' passion and energy, as well as his connection to his mother, who had passed away earlier.
Why it matters
The death of Christian Cousins marks the end of an era for child actors from the 1980s and 1990s, particularly those who gained fame through family-based roles. His career, which included prominent roles in 'Kindergarten Cop' and 'Knots Landing', reflects the era's reliance on child stars and the challenges they faced transitioning to adult careers. His passing also highlights the ongoing health struggles faced by former child actors, particularly those who battled chronic illnesses like liver disease. The announcement by his half-brother Jonas Roeser underscores the personal impact of his loss on family members who grew up watching him on television.
What to watch
There is no immediate next step reported in the sources. The focus remains on the announcement of his death and the tribute from his half-brother Jonas Roeser. No further developments or public statements have been reported as of the date of the primary source.
Want the full story? Read the original reporting
Read on Variety