Jon Paul Steuer's Early Career:
Jon Paul Steuer's acting career began at the age of nine when he was cast as Quentin Kelly, the son of Brett Butler's character, on the ABC sitcom Grace Under Fire in 1993. Although the pilot episode featured Noah Segan in the role, Jon took over starting from episode two. During the show's second season hiatus, Jon appeared in the comedy movie Little Giants (1994) alongside Sam Horrigan. He continued to work on Grace Under Fire until the end of the third season.
Jon's Departure from Grace Under Fire:
In May 1996, Jon's parents abruptly pulled him from the show, citing concerns about the environment and Brett Butler's behavior. The parents claimed that Butler's substance abuse, frequent rehab admissions, and overt sexual behavior towards 12-year-old Jon were problematic. Butler was reportedly observed flashing her breasts at Jon on set. After Jon's departure, Sam Horrigan, his Little Giants co-star, took over the role of Quentin Kelly.
Post-Grace Under Fire:
Following his departure from the show, Jon found it challenging to secure acting jobs. He claimed that casting directors were more interested in discussing his experience working with Brett Butler and the circumstances surrounding his departure. This led to Jon feeling unprofessional and unwanted in the industry. He eventually decided to quit acting altogether.
New Ventures:
Jon's family relocated to Denver, Colorado, where he finished high school and worked various jobs. He later adopted the stage name Jonny P. Jewels and formed the glam punk band Kill City Thrillers with four other musicians. The band changed its name to Soda Pop Kids in 2005 and continued to perform until November 2009.
In 2011, Jon joined the Portland-based punk rock group P.R.O.B.L.E.M.S. as their fifth member. The band toured nearby states and went on a European tour in 2014. Jon remained with the band until his death.
Business Ventures:
In 2015, Jon partnered with chef Sean Sigmon and invested in a vegan restaurant called Harvest At The Bindery in Portland, Oregon. The restaurant thrived for almost three years.
Tragic Death:
On January 1, 2018, Jon Paul Steuer passed away at the age of 33 due to a self-inflicted gunshot wound at his home in Portland, Oregon. The day following his death, his restaurant partner closed down the restaurant permanently, and it was put up for sale on January 3, 2018.
