The former child star slipped into a coma after suffering a fall in Utah.
"Child actor Gary Coleman died at approximately 12:05 p.m. Mountain Standard Time at Utah Valley Regional Medical Center," said Janet Frank, a spokeswoman for the hospital, in an e-mailed statement. "Family members and close friends were at his side when life support was terminated."
Coleman suffered the intracranial hemorrhage at his home in Utah Wednesday, possibly from a fall, though the exact circumstances have not been confirmed.
"He was immediately taken to a local hospital for treatment," Coleman's publicist, John Alcantar, said in an e-mail to ABC News.
Later Wednesday evening, according to Alcantar, Coleman was moved to another hospital for more tests and treatment. By midday Thursday, Coleman had regained consciousness and was lucid.
But his condition soon grew more dire.
"As of mid morning on May 27, Mr. Coleman was conscious and lucid, but by early afternoon that same day, Mr. Coleman was slipping in and out of consciousness and his condition worsened," the hospital statement said.
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WATCH: 'Lost Boy' Lost: Corey Haim Dead at 38A press conference on Coleman's death was scheduled for later today, the hospital statement added.
Because of his unstable condition, Coleman did not undergo any surgery, according to Alcantar.
"In recent years Gary Coleman has had difficulties, not only with health issues, but also with his personal and public life," Alcantar said. "At times, it may not have been apparent, but he always has had fond memories of being an entertainer and appreciates his fans for all their support over the years. At this critical moment, we can only ask for your thoughts and prayers for Gary to make a speedy and full recovery."
Coleman's hemorrhage may have resulted from trauma to his head. Thursday, Coleman's brother-in-law told TMZ.com that the actor fell and suffered a head injury.
Rough Year for Gary Coleman
The year 2010 was hard for Coleman, best known for his starring role in the 1980s sitcom "Diff'rent Strokes."
In January, Coleman, who was married to Shannon Price since 2007, was arrested for failing to appear in court after a domestic disturbance. His health has also faltered -- Coleman suffered seizures in January and February on the set of "The Insider."
The actor also suffered from a congenital kidney disease and requires frequent dialysis.