Heath Freeman, Actor Who Played ‘Bones’ Villain Howard Epps, Dies at 41

Heath Freeman, an actor best known for his role as notorious killer Howard Epps on the Fox drama “Bones,” has died. He was 41 at the time of his passing.

“We are truly devastated at the loss of our beloved Heath Freeman,” Freeman’s manager Joe S. Montifiore said in a statement to TheWrap Tuesday. “A brilliant human being with an intense and soulful spirit, he leaves us with an indelible imprint in our hearts. His life was filled with deep loyalty, affection, and generosity towards his family and friends, and an extraordinary zest for life. He was extremely proud of his recent film work and was very excited for the next chapter of his career.”

The statement continues: “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.”

Montifiore said there are not “any further details at this juncture” regarding Freeman’s death, including when he passed and his cause of death, adding, “We really appreciate your respectful consideration during this difficult time for his family and loved ones.”

Known to “Bones” fans as Howard Epps — one of the most complex killers that Dr. Temperance Brennan (Emily Deschanel) and Agent Seeley Booth (David Boreanaz) ever faced — Freeman’s other notable TV credits include “ER,” “NCIS,” “Raising the Bar” and “The Closer.”

On the film side, Freeman has two movies slated to be released next year: “Terror on the Prairie,” on which he recently wrapped production, and “Devil’s Fruit,” in which he co-stars with Gina Carano.

Celebrities who were friends and co-stars of Freeman’s, including Shiloh Fernandez, Ashley Benson, Addison Timlin, Shane West, Scott Haze, Gina Carano, Sammi Rotibi, Shanna Moakler and Gabriel-Kane Day-Lewis, have posted tributes to Freeman following the news of his passing.

Moakler said in an Instagram post Monday: “Heartbroken to hear of the loss of my dear friend Heath Freeman, talented actor, director, producer, outstanding chef and a solid friend. 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”

The actress later wrote in the comments that Freeman “passed in his sleep yesterday in his home in Austin,” though that information has not been confirmed by Freeman’s reps.