Actor William Sadler, renowned for his roles in “The Shawshank Redemption” and “Roswell,” is mourning the loss of his wife, Marni Joan Bakst, who passed away after a two-year battle with cancer. The couple shared 45 years of marriage, having wed on May 6, 1978, and have a daughter, Sadler Colley Bakst.
Sadler, 74, announced Marni’s passing on December 19, 2024, through a heartfelt tribute on Facebook, sharing a cherished photo from their wedding day. He expressed the difficulty of articulating his feelings, stating, “I don’t think I can fathom or put into words much of this yet.” He described Marni as an “extraordinary artist, feminist, wife, and mother,” and thanked friends and fans for their support during this challenging time.
The actor’s announcement has prompted an outpouring of condolences from fans and colleagues, who have taken to social media to offer their sympathies and share memories. One fan commented, “My sincerest condolences. May Marni’s memory be a blessing.” Another shared, “God be with you. Your family and friends will help. I am so sorry for your loss.”
Throughout their marriage, Sadler often expressed his deep affection for Marni. On their 45th wedding anniversary earlier this year, he shared the same wedding photo, reminiscing, “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.”
Marni’s passing marks a profound loss for Sadler and their family. As they navigate this period of grief, the support from the public serves as a testament to the impact of their love story and the respect held for Sadler’s work in the entertainment industry.
William Sadler’s career spans several decades, with notable performances in films such as “Die Hard 2” and “Bill & Ted’s Bogus Journey,” as well as television series like “Star Trek: Deep Space Nine.” Despite his professional achievements, he has consistently highlighted the importance of family, often sharing glimpses into his personal life with Marni and their daughter.
As the family mourns, they have requested privacy to grieve and remember Marni’s life. Sadler’s message concluded with gratitude for the “patience and kind words” from supporters, indicating that further reflections may come with time.
The loss of Marni Joan Bakst is felt not only by her immediate family but also by the broader community who admired the couple’s enduring partnership. Her legacy as an artist, feminist, wife, and mother will be remembered by those who knew her personally and by fans who came to know her through Sadler’s heartfelt tributes.
