Jason Hoganson, an actor known for his role in the 1987 cult film "Empire State," died of natural causes and drug use, a coroner has determined. Hoganson was released from HMP Durham in September 2024 after serving half of an 18-month sentence for assaulting his ex-partner. His release coincided with a broader measure to tackle prison overcrowding under the Labour government, which saw approximately 1,700 other prisoners freed on the same day.
Just 48 hours after his release, Hoganson was arrested on suspicion of breaching a restraining order and assault following an incident involving his ex-partner, Rachel Usher. He was subsequently jailed for 18 months, having already served most of that time on remand.
Hoganson, 55, was found dead at his accommodation on April 4, 2026. An inquest at Newcastle Coroner's Court heard that he had a long history of alcohol and drug abuse. The post-mortem examination revealed his death was due to bronchopneumonia, with drug addiction identified as a significant contributory factor. A key worker assisting rough sleepers noted that Hoganson's engagement with services was inconsistent, partly due to his homelessness.
Coroner Georgina Nolan concluded that Hoganson died from natural causes exacerbated by drug use and extended her condolences to his family and friends. Hoganson, originally from Wallsend, had over 100 previous convictions.
Rachel Usher, who had been in a six-year relationship with Hoganson, stated in a court reading that he had frequently assaulted her. She reported an incident where Hoganson slapped her across the face with significant force, shouting and acting angrily, after she refused to go somewhere with him. She called the police during the altercation. Hoganson claimed he had returned to the flats where Ms. Usher lived to retrieve personal belongings and alleged that a man living there was having an affair with his ex-partner while he was incarcerated. He was removed from court for shouting obscenities from the dock.
Hoganson's defense lawyer had previously told Newcastle Crown Court that the actor struggled with personal issues that contributed to his actions. The lawyer described Hoganson as an accomplished actor who had a promising future after securing a leading role in a crime thriller. However, the pressure of the spotlight led him to turn to drink and drugs, initiating a downward spiral. The defense also mentioned Hoganson's complex mental health history, noting that he had served as a mentor to others while in prison on remand.
Hoganson's acting career began when he was talent-scouted for a leading role in "Empire State," a 1987 film where he played a drifter named Pete. The movie also starred Irish actor Ray McAnally, Jamie Foreman, and American star Martin Landau. Following his career in film, Hoganson's life became entangled with substance abuse and crime, leading to his eventual homelessness.
