Mike Heslin, a resident of New York, New York, and a recently awarded Best First Time Director for the horror short film Happy Halloween, has tragically passed away. He was announced dead in a heartfelt social media post that read, “My Mike Heslin, my Mikey – to know you was to love you beyond measure and with all of me. On July 2nd at 2 pm, we held and sang to Mike as he took his last breath surrounded by his loved ones.”
Mike Heslin’s unexpected death was due to a sudden cardiac event after a week-long battle in the hospital. According to a fundraising page organized by Whitney Conkling and two others, Mike was young and in perfect health, leaving doctors with no explanation for his sudden passing. “There are many ways to define a person and their impact, and Mike is many beautiful things to so many people,” the page read.
The fundraising page, organized to raise $50,000 to cover funeral and hospital costs and provide support to Nic and the Heslin family during this time of upheaval and change, has raised $37,162 at the time of this report. The organizers expressed their deep appreciation for any and all help received, highlighting the immense support from friends and admirers.
Mike Heslin was an actor, director, writer, and producer whose work has graced stages and screens across the nation. As a creator, writer, and director, he appeared in the recently released scripted mockumentary series The Influencers, which follows six social media “stars” as they compete for a dream brand contract. His comedic pilot Now Boarding made it to the semi-finals of the Austin Film Festival, showcasing his versatility and talent in the entertainment industry.
For his horror short Happy Halloween, Mike was recently named Best First Time Director. The film was an official selection at five other festivals, including the LA International Horror Film Festival, Horror Film Awards, The Bridgeport Film Fest, and the Ethereal Horror Fest. It won five awards at the Hollywood Blood Horror Festival, including Best Horror and Best Trailer, cementing Mike’s status as a rising star in film direction.
A native of California, Mike moved to the East Coast to pursue his BFA at the Boston Conservatory with a focus on directing. His television credits include appearances on TVLand’s Younger, Lifetime’s I Love You But I Lied, and the feature I Dream Too Much (SXSW/Attic Light Films – EP Richard Linklater). On stage, Mike performed in Mamma Mia and Diane Paulus’s The Donkey Show at A.R.T., as well as in the national tour of the Tony Award-winning drama War Horse.
In addition to his impressive acting career, Mike co-produced Boy•Friends, a new digital comedy based on the well-liked and critically praised web series My Gay Roommate, for which he was best known as the slick-talking Rupert. Mike also co-founded Well-Versed Entertainment, a full-service production company. As a co-founder, he oversaw all aspects of the company’s development and production, including idea creation and post-production, further demonstrating his multifaceted talent and entrepreneurial spirit.
Mike Heslin’s sudden death has left a significant void in the entertainment industry and among his friends and family. His colleagues and friends remember him as a vibrant, kind-hearted individual whose passion for his craft was matched only by his generosity and warmth. His loss is deeply felt by all who had the privilege of knowing and working with him.
Tributes have poured in from across the entertainment industry, with many sharing fond memories and expressing their condolences. “Mike was a true talent and a wonderful person. His enthusiasm and creativity were contagious, and he inspired everyone around him,” said a close colleague. Another friend added, “Mike’s kindness and positivity touched so many lives. He had a way of making everyone feel special and valued. His legacy will live on in the incredible work he created and the countless lives he impacted.”
As the family navigates this incredibly challenging time, they have expressed their gratitude for the outpouring of support they have received. They have requested privacy as they come to terms with their loss and make arrangements for Mike’s funeral. Details of the obituary and funeral arrangements will be released by the family at a later date, allowing the community to come together to honor and celebrate Mike’s life.
In the days and weeks ahead, the New York community and the broader entertainment industry will continue to mourn the loss of Mike Heslin. His legacy of creativity, passion, and kindness will be remembered and cherished by all who knew him. The support from the community during this difficult time is a testament to the impact Mike had on so many lives.
The tragic passing of Mike Heslin has left a profound void in the hearts of his family, friends, and the broader entertainment community. As they come to terms with this immense loss, they find solace in the love and support that has been extended to them. Mike’s legacy of creativity, dedication, and positivity will continue to inspire and uplift those he left behind. The community will honor his memory and support his family, ensuring that Mike’s spirit and influence remain a guiding light for all.
In conclusion, Mike Heslin’s sudden and tragic death has left a lasting impact on the New York community and the entertainment industry. As the investigation into his passing continues, the community is rallying together to support one another and honor the memory of a beloved director, actor, and friend. In the face of this tragedy, the strength and resilience of the community will shine through as they work towards healing and remembering the remarkable life of Mike Heslin
