Gary Wayne Coleman (February 8, 1968 - May 28, 2010) was an American (People of the United States) actor, known for his childhood role as Arnold Jackson (Arnold Jackson (character)) in the American sitcom Diffrent Strokes (1978-1986) and for his small stature as an adult. He was described in the 1980s as "one of televisions most promising stars." After a successful childhood acting (child actor) career, Coleman struggled financially later in life. In 1993, he successfully sued his parents and business adviser over misappropriation of his assets.