Patricia Heaton mourns Pat Finn after the beloved actor, known for his role as Bill Norwood on “The Middle,” died at age 60 following a battle with cancer. Finn passed away at his Los Angeles home on December 23, leaving behind his wife, Donna, and three children.
Pat Finn’s Legacy on ‘The Middle’ Remembered
Pat Finn made a lasting impression on audiences with his portrayal of Bill Norwood, a neighbor to the Heck family, on the ABC series “The Middle.” The show, which featured Patricia Heaton as matriarch Frankie Heck, aired for nine seasons from 2009 to 2018. Finn became a familiar face to viewers, and his character was considered a staple of the show’s close-knit neighborhood.
Patricia Heaton shared her grief and respect for her late costar, posting touching words after his passing.
“One of the finest and funniest human beings I know has left to be with Jesus,”
Patricia Heaton, Actress, wrote.
“Pat Finn, whom most of you know as Bill Norwood on The Middle, had been battling cancer the last few years. At the too-young age of 60, he leaves behind his sweetheart, Donna, and three children.”
Finn’s death struck a chord with many who worked with him, both on “The Middle” and in other projects. Heaton added,
“He was adored by all who knew him, and he leaves behind a legacy of love, friendship and wonderful comedy,”
Patricia Heaton, Actress, shared about her friend.
“He graced our movie Unexpected with a scene-stealing turn as a crazy psychiatrist.”
She concluded her public message by expressing her deep sense of loss and hope for a reunion, stating,
“Our hearts are broken, but as faithful Catholics, we know we will see each other again through God’s mercy. Rest in peace, dear brother,”
Patricia Heaton, Actress, wrote.
Details on Finn’s Illness and Passing
The actor fought bladder cancer, initially entering remission before the illness returned and spread. A statement from Finn’s representative described the final stages of his journey and the enduring spirit he displayed while battling cancer.
“It is with profound sadness and grief that the Finn family announces the passing of beloved comedic actor, Pat Finn,”
Finn’s Representative, stated.
“In 2022, Pat battled bladder cancer, went into remission, but the cancer returned and metastasized. He was a warrior in every sense of the word,”
Finn’s Representative, noted.
Tributes Pour In from Hollywood Colleagues
The outpouring of tributes went beyond the immediate “Middle” family, with Hollywood colleagues like Jeff Dye, Brian Steck, Eric Stonestreet, and Dane Cook offering public condolences and personal memories of Finn.
Comedian Jeff Dye reflected on their friendship and shared,
“I don’t like to be the guy who posts pics with celebrities that pass. But this guy wasn’t just a celebrity to me. He was a friend,”
Jeff Dye, Comedian, wrote.
“One of the best dudes I knew with a PERFECT sense of humor. I love you Pat Finn and I’ll see [you] again in the after. We can sing together and shake our heads about all the meanness in the used to be,”
Jeff Dye, Comedian, added.
Brian Steck, writer for The Late Show With Stephen Colbert, honored Finn’s kindness and comedic talent, saying,
“Heartbroken that our dear friend, Pat Finn, passed away. As kind as he was brilliantly hilarious,”
Brian Steck, Writer, tweeted.
“Rest In Peace, Finner. We love you. … As our mutual friend Tom Purcell said, ‘I’ve never met anyone more loved than Pat Finn,’”
Brian Steck, Writer, noted.
Eric Stonestreet, known for his work on “Modern Family,” also expressed his grief and appreciation for Finn’s humor and approach to life:
“Everyone’s favorite guy @thatPatFinn sadly passed away this week. To say Pat was beloved is a gross understatement,”
Eric Stonestreet, Actor, posted.
“No ONE and I mean NO ONE jumped quicker and more head first into a bit with you than Pat Finn. He was the definition of what an improviser is and also the definition of what a good guy is,”
Eric Stonestreet, Actor, added.
Dane Cook remembered Finn as
“genuinely funny and just a good guy,”
Dane Cook, Comedian, wrote.
“Sad to hear Pat Finn passed away. My condolences to his family,”
Dane Cook, Comedian, stated.
“He had a great career. Tough to hear this news,”
Dane Cook, Comedian, wrote.
The Lasting Impact of Pat Finn’s Career
Beyond his work as Bill Norwood on “The Middle,” Finn’s influence was felt by peers and audiences alike. Friends and colleagues described him as generous with his humor and spirit, always ready to create memorable moments both on and off screen. His body of work in television and film, as well as his personal warmth, have left a powerful legacy for his family and the entertainment community.
Patricia Heaton mourns Pat Finn alongside many, remembering not only a talented actor but a cherished friend whose presence brought joy and laughter to so many. As colleagues and fans reflect on his memory, Finn’s contributions to Hollywood, especially through roles that captured the hearts of audiences and the respect of his peers, will remain significant for years to come.
