NCIS and Bones star Heath Freeman dies aged 41

Heath Freeman, best known for his roles on NCIS and Bones, has passed away at the age of 41.

The actor’s death was confirmed by his manager Joe S. Montifiore on Monday, although details have not been released.

Heath Freeman.
Heath Freeman has passed away at the age of 41. Photo: Getty

“We are truly devastated at the loss of our beloved Heath Freeman. A brilliant human being with an intense and soulful spirit, he leaves us with an indelible imprint in our hearts,” Montifiore said in a statement obtained by People.

“His life was filled with deep loyalty, affection, and generosity towards his family and friends, and an extraordinary zest for life.

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“He was extremely proud of his recent film work and was very excited for the next chapter of his career,” the statement continued.

“His remarkable legacy as a son, brother, uncle, friend, extraordinarily gifted actor and producer, consummate cook, and man with the most infectious and spectacular laugh, will live on forever. May his memory be a blessing to all who knew and loved him.”

Heath Freeman on Bones.
Heath played serial killer Howard Epps on Bones. Photo: Fox

Heath was best known for playing serial killer Howard Epps on Bones from 2005 to 2007, making his debut in season one.

He also played Benjamin Frank on NCIS in 2003 and has had roles in ER, Without A Trace and Raising the Bar.

Shanna Moakler, a model, actress and former Miss USA, took to Instagram on Sunday to share a tribute for Heath.

“Heartbroken to hear of the loss of my dear friend Heath Freeman, talented actor, director, producer, outstanding chef and a solid friend,” the ex-wife of Travis Barker captioned a selfie with the actor.

“You will be so dearly missed and I will cherish every amazing memory we all had... And we have a lot of great ones! Godspeed.”

In the comments, she claimed that Heath “passed in his sleep” in his home in Austin.

Pretty Little Liars star Ashley Bensen has also shared her condolences, posting a selfie with Heath on her Instagram story with the caption, “I'll love you forever @heathmonster RIP”.

Heath is set to star in the upcoming Western film, Terror on the Prairie, which is scheduled for release next year.

His co-star Gabriel-Kane Day-Lewis, the son of Daniel Day-Lewis, shared a tribute on social media.

"There is nothing that I could say which could ever possibly do your existence justice, Heath,” the 26-year-old actor wrote.

“We formed such a strong bond from the start, and you became a mentor to me. Watching you work was such a privilege. Your charisma, your talent, your humour, your passion and your red hot Irish temper will be dearly missed. I’m so sorry you won’t be here to see what we made together. I’ll miss laughing with you my brother aka ‘Gold Heath’. Rest easy.”

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