Veteran comedic actor Pat Finn, best known for his memorable roles on The Middle and The George Wendt Show, has died following a long battle with cancer, according to TMZ. He was 60.
Family sources say Finn passed away on Tuesday, December 23, at his home in Los Angeles, surrounded by loved ones.
Finn’s path to comedy fame began alongside his close friend Chris Farley. The two met at Marquette University in 1987, where they played rugby together, before becoming roommates in Chicago and performing with the legendary Second City comedy troupe — a launching pad for countless comedy stars.
Over the years, Finn built an impressive résumé as a character actor, appearing in beloved TV shows including Murphy Brown, 3rd Rock from the Sun, Ed, Seinfeld, and Friends. Fans may remember him as Joe Mayo on Seinfeld or Dr. Roger on Friends, roles that showcased his dry humor and natural comedic timing.
He became especially well known for his recurring role as Bill Norwood on The Middle, appearing on the ABC sitcom from 2010 through 2018. His character became a familiar and well-loved presence on the long-running series.
Following news of his death, friends and former co-stars shared emotional tributes online. Comedian Jeff Dye posted a heartfelt message remembering Finn not just as a colleague, but as a close friend with an exceptional sense of humor.
“I don’t like to be the guy who posts pics with celebrities that pass,” Dye wrote. “But this guy wasn’t just a celebrity to me. He was a friend. One of the best dudes I knew with a perfect sense of humor.”
While Finn’s family did not publicly disclose the exact type of cancer, reports indicate he had been battling bladder cancer for several years.
Finn is survived by his wife, Donna, and their three children, Cassidy, Caitlin, and Ryan. Fans and colleagues alike are remembering him as a talented performer, a kind presence, and a quietly influential figure in television comedy.