8 Simple Rules (originally known as 8 Simple Rules for Dating My Teenage Daughter) is an American sitcom, originally starring John Ritter and Katey Sagal. It debuted on ABC on September 17, 2002, and concluded on April 15, 2005.

What happened to the dad in 8 Simple Rules?

Paul Hennessy (Portrayed by John Ritter from 2002-2003) is Cates husband and father of Bridget, Kerry and Rory. Paul collapsed and died while at the store while buying milk. This was probably because of an aortic dissection (and because of the real-life death of John Ritter).