Ever since the news of his death spread, fans have been inquisitive about the reason behind Brad William Henke’s passing.
Brad William Henke, who previously excelled as a defensive end in the NFL before embarking on an acting career, has left this world. At the time of his demise, he was 56 years old.
According to Henke’s manager, Matt Delpiano, in a statement to TMZ on December 1st, ‘Henke was an incredibly delightful man with boundless enthusiasm’. ‘He was an exceptionally talented actor who cherished being part of this community, and we returned his affection. Our thoughts are with his wife and family.’
‘Henke passed away peacefully in his sleep on Tuesday,’ as per his agent Sheree Cohen, who spoke with The Hollywood Reporter. The cause of Brad William Henke’s death has not been disclosed yet.
Surviving family members of Henke include his wife Sonja, stepson Aaden, stepsister Leasa, and grandchild Amirah.
It was through the assistance of Rod Martin, a former NFL player, that he delved into his career in commercial acting.
Henke revealed to the Tucson Citizen in 1998, ‘Rod mentioned the demand for actors to portray football players in commercials, so I auditioned for it and landed a role for Pizza Hut. While I was there, someone suggested that I take an acting class. It struck me right then that this was my calling.’
In the fourth and fifth seasons of Orange is the new black on Netflix, he starred as prison guard Desi Piscatella.
Henke was among the co-stars of the show who received the 2016 Screen Actors Guild Award for outstanding cast in a comedy.
He expressed to THR that ‘it was a privilege and an honor to play the role of the antagonist, even after his character was written off at the end of the fifth season.’
‘I relished the experience as the ensemble was marvelous to work with and the character was extraordinary, intricate, and multi-dimensional,’ he added. ‘It’s been one of the most rewarding professions I’ve ever had.’
He had a flourishing career with an array of credits to his name, including recurring roles in shows such as Nash Bridges, Judging Amy, Dexter, and The Bridge, in addition to a regular series role in the ABC drama October Road.
He also made guest appearances on ER, Law & Order, Shameless, and The Office, among other popular programs.
Heartfelt Homages Paid to Him
Following the news of his passing, tributes and condolences poured in for the late luminary on Twitter.
One individual tweeted, ‘such an exceptional actor! Our sympathies go out to his family.’
Branch Out Productions tweeted, ‘We are at a loss for words. Brad was a remarkable actor and a compassionate individual.
Former colleagues and admirers of the actor, including OITNB casting director Jen Euston, expressed their shock as she tweeted, ‘This is unforeseen. Rest in peace, Brad.’
She further stated, ‘I am grateful for everything you contributed to OITNB. Your legacy will endure.’
this is a shock. rest in peace, Brad.
💔
thank you for all the work you contributed on OITNB. you will not be forgotten. https://t.co/DMry0ET8ad— Jen Euston (@jeneuston) December 2, 2022
Brad William Henke was honored with a touching tribute on Twitter by WandaVision actor David Lengel.
RIP Brad Henke 💔 this photo was when we took a play from LA to New York in 2008. He was an amazing acting teacher and coach, as well as deeply caring human and friend. The community he created was unparalleled and filled with lifelong friendships. Will miss you Brad ❤️😢 pic.twitter.com/yx75XLZiVb
— David Lengel (@DaveLengel) December 2, 2022
‘This shot was when we took a show from LA to New York in 2008,’ the actor remarked alongside a picture of six individuals beaming arm in arm. ‘He was an exceptional mentor and coach in acting and a truly compassionate person. The network he established was unparalleled and bonded with everlasting friendships. Brad, I will miss you.’
