HEARTBREAKING UPDATE!!! Passions Alum Bruce French Died At 79.🕊️ Soap opera fans mourn the loss of veteran actor Bruce French, best known as Father Lonigan on Passions. With over 150 credits to his name, his legacy lives on. Our thoughts are with his loved ones. 💔

Rest In Peace

The Hollywood Reporter reported that French passed away on Friday in Los Angeles due to complications from Alzheimer’s. He was diagnosed with the disease four years ago. French was born on July 4, 1945, in Reinbeck, Iowa. He earned a degree from the University of Iowa, and he served with the U.S. Army during the Vietnam War. Finally, French studied acting at New York University’s Tisch School of the Arts.

On Passions, French portrayed the blind Father Lonigan for the show’s entire nine seasons from 1999 to 2008. On the soap, baddie Alistair Crane (David Bailey; John Reilly) caused the Father to lose his sight.

He began his acting career in 1972 in the off-Broadway play, The Shadow of a Gunman. Two years later, he appeared in the 1974 film Man on a Swing.

During his long career, French wracked up more than 150 credits. He had roles in television shows The WaltonsSoapDallasFamily TiesHill Street BluesMoonlightingFalcon CrestCheers, and Designing Women. Additionally, he appeared on Who’s the Boss?Beverly Hills, 90210The West WingGilmore GirlsBones, Mad MenEli Stone, and Grey’s Anatomy. You might have seen him on L.A. LawAlly McBealThe PracticeBoston Public, and Boston Legal. He was also part of the Star Trek series franchise. He had roles in The Next GenerationVoyager, and Enterprise. In addition, he appeared in 1998’s Star Trek: Insurrection film. Passions Alum Bruce French as Father Lonigan with the soap hub logo.

Other films in which French starred include ChristineMr. MomFletchMurphy’s RomanceLegal EaglesWildcatsJurassic Park IIIMr. DeedsThank You for SmokingBeginners, and Beautiful Boy.

French is survived by his wife of 34 years, Barnett, and his nieces, Claire and Paula. Soap Hub sends its deepest condolences to French’s family, friends, and fans during this difficult time.

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