Actor Pat Finn, known for his comedic roles in television series like “Friends,” “Seinfeld,” and “The Middle,” has died at age 60 after a battle with cancer. Finn passed away Monday at his Los Angeles home, according to reports, marking a loss for the entertainment industry and the many fans who recognized his versatile performances. His family shared a statement noting his joyful spirit and the countless lives he touched through his work and kindness.
Getty ImagesPat Finn, a familiar face from television comedies like Friends, Seinfeld, and The Middle, has died at the age of 60.
The actor and improviser passed away at his Los Angeles home on Monday after a battle with cancer that began in 2022, according to reports. His passing marks a loss for the comedy community and fans who enjoyed his versatile performances over the years.
“Pat never met a stranger – only friends he didn’t know yet,” his family shared in a statement posted on social media.
They added that he “lived his life fully – with joy and exuberance.”
Finn launched his television career with a role on The George Wendt Show in 1995, playing the brother of the titular character. He followed that with recurring appearances on Murphy Brown between 1995 and 1997.
He’s perhaps best remembered for his turn as Joe Mayo in Seinfeld’s 1998 episode, “The Invitations,” where his character was notorious for foisting unwanted tasks onto party guests.
Throughout the late 1990s and early 2000s, Finn made guest appearances on a string of popular shows, including King of Queens, Friends, That ‘70s Show, and House.
Finn found widespread recognition for his eight-season role as Bill Norwood on The Middle, which aired from 2011 to 2018.
His film credits include appearances in It’s Complicated (2009) and Santa Paws 2: The Santa Pups (2012).
Getty ImagesBeyond his on-screen work, Finn was a dedicated improv performer and educator, teaching at the University of Colorado as an adjunct professor. He was also a member of the improv troupe Beer Shark Mice.
“Pat coached, befriended and mentored countless students throughout the years and you’d be hard-pressed to find anyone anywhere who has an unkind word to say about him,” his family wrote.
Fellow actor Richard Kind paid tribute to Finn, saying there was “no kinder, gentler, funnier, down to earth person you could encounter.”
“Always positive, helping you be funnier and better. A great dad, a great guy,” Kind wrote on Instagram.
Finn is survived by his wife, Donna, their three children, and his parents and siblings.
