Jeff Conaway 'in coma after possible overdose'

Jeff Conaway is critically ill in hospital after a possible overdose.

The actor, who starred as Bobby Wheeler in '70s sitcom Taxi, is in a coma at a California hospital. Although the name of the hospital has not officially been disclosed, local reports suggest that it is the Encino Hospital Medical Centre.

His manager Phil Brock told The AP that the actor was found unconscious on May 11 and that his prospects of a full recovery are uncertain.

Conaway, who made his first appearance on stage aged 2 years old, also appeared as T-Birds gang member Kenickie in Grease and played Zack Allan on Babylon 5.

The 60-year-old has battled substance abuse for a number of years and appeared on the VH1 reality show Celebrity Rehab to seek treatment for addiction to cocaine, painkillers and alcohol.

Last year, he received treatment for injuries including a broken hip following a fall at his Los Angeles home.