Orange, New Black star Brad William Henke is dead at 56

“Orange is the New Black” actor Brad William Henke has died at the age of 56.

The actor’s manager confirmed his death to Variety, though no cause of death has been confirmed.

A former NFL player, Henke is best known for his role as prison guard Desi Piscatella on the popular Netflix comedy that ran from 2013-2019.

Watch all your favorite shows on Channel 7 or stream for free on 7plus >>

He shared a Screen Actors Guild Award for Outstanding Performance by an Ensemble in a Comedy Series in 2017.

“Brad was an incredibly kind man full of happy energy,” his manager Mat DelPiano told TMZ.

“As a very talented actor, he loved being a part of this community and we loved him back.

“Our thoughts are with his wife and family.”

In addition to Orange is the New Black, Henke has also appeared in the series Going to California, Justified, Dexter and Lost.

Born in Nebraska, he played college football at the University of Arizona before joining the Denver Broncos.

Injuries led to his retirement from professional football in 1994 — and then an acting career called.

Henke started out with small roles in TV series such as Law & Order, Chicago Hope, ER and Criminal Minds.

He has also appeared in films such as Pacific Rim, Pee-Wee’s Big Holiday, Must Love Dogs and The Space Between.

Fans of the actor flocked to his Instagram page to share their sadness at the news of his death.

“Heartbroken,” one fan wrote. “Say it’s not true.”

“Just heard the news…rest in peace,” wrote another.

“What a great guy. You will be missed,” said a third.

“Thank you for sharing your gifts with us.”

Henke is survived by his wife Sonja Henke, his stepson, his stepdaughter and one grandchild.

Visit 7Life on Facebook for more engaging celebrity content.