Former Glee Star Darren Criss Mourns The Loss of His Father

It’s a sad day for Darren Criss and his family as the Emmy-winning actor revealed the news that his father, Charles William Criss, Jr., known by Bill to friends and family, passed away at the age of 78.

Darren Criss — A Heartfelt Tribute

The actor shared the news with his followers on Instagram saying, “Bill Criss has left the building. After many years of coping with a rare heart condition, which true to his form very few would have ever been aware of, he finally checked out peacefully yesterday morning surrounded by his loved ones.

“Dad lived an extraordinary life. Anyone who ever met Bill Criss adored him instantly. He could talk to anyone about anything. Well-read and well-traveled, he made the world a better place wherever he went.”

The former Glee star also posted a series of photos of his dad through the years, always looking dapper and happy.

“He was as deliriously charming as he was relentlessly selfless,” Criss continued. “Always putting other people first, making anybody who ever got into a conversation with him genuinely feel like they were the most incredible person in the room. And although he would have been the first to gracefully protest it, the simple truth is that he was in fact, every inch the exemplary man: a devoted husband, an outstanding father, a loving grandparent.”

Among those sending support on Instagram were actor Dylan McDermott, singer Ricky Martin, and Glee costar Matthew Morrison, who wrote, “Man, what a king he was. I always felt seen when talking to him. So gentle, so kind, and so invested and proud of his children. The world needs more people like Bill Criss. Sorry for your loss.”

Criss ended his note with a final thought about his dad’s unwavering sense of composure, compassion, generosity, and humility.

“I spent most of my life trying to be like him, wanting to see and do all the incredible things he did, and I am so grateful he was around to see me actually pull a few off,” Criss wrote.

“He was there for all of the greatest moments of my life, which of course, he always dressed up for. His kind blue eyes, big laugh and infamous warm smile could not have been a better representation to who he was at his core. I cherished him every day and will forever.” Entertainment Hub sends condolences to Darren Criss and his family during this difficult time.