William Sadler - known for his roles in Salem's Lot and Roswell - has shared the heartbreaking news that his wife, Marni Joan Bakst, has passed away.
The 74-year-old actor announced Bakst’s passing in a heartfelt Facebook tribute on Thursday, December 19, sharing a touching throwback photo of the couple holding coffee mugs on the morning of their wedding day, May 6, 1978.
In his tribute, he revealed that Marni died following her battle with cancer.
"Early yesterday morning, my wife, Marni Bakst, finally lost her two year battle with cancer," Sadler wrote. "After what has been an amazing forty five years of marriage I don’t think I can fathom or put into words much of this yet."
The Shawshank Redemption star continued: "Maybe with time and a little distance I’ll find it easier to describe this extraordinary artist, feminist, wife, and mother, but for now I want to thank you all for your patience and kind words. Yours, Bill."
The actor's fans flooded the comments section with messages of support for the star, with one person writing: "So incredibly sorry to hear of Marni’s passing. My heart is with you."
A second added: "Deepest sympathy, Marni was an amazing lady, kind and funny. Big hugs [to] you and your family. RiP Marni."
Another penned: "May her memory always be a blessing to you and your family. I remember meeting her and she was absolutely amazing. My most sincere condolences."
Throughout their 45 years of marriage, Sadler and Bakst welcomed one daughter, Sadler Colley Bakst.
On their 45th wedding anniversary last year, Sadler shared the same wedding-day photo, penning a loving tribute to his wife that encapsulated their bond. "This picture was taken the morning of our wedding, exactly forty five years ago today. The extraordinary looking young woman with the huge eyes is Ms. Marni Bakst. The lucky young man is me," he wrote on May 6, 2023.
"All these years later I still bring her coffee, she still has those beautiful eyes, and I’m still the luckiest man on this, or any other planet. Happy Anniversary Marni! Love always, Bill," the message continued.
Our thoughts go out to Sadler, as well as Bakst's family and loved ones at this time.
