Tony Fitzpatrick, a prominent Chicago visual artist, poet, playwright, and actor, passed away on October 11 at Rush University Medical Center while awaiting a lung transplant. He was 66 years old. Fitzpatrick’s family includes his wife Michele and their two adult children, Max and Gabrielle, who have been working to preserve and honor their father’s multifaceted legacy.
Fitzpatrick enjoyed a diverse career, not only creating visual art but also working in radio, writing, and acting. His acting credits span film and television roles in productions such as "Primal Fear," "Philadelphia," and the Amazon Prime series "Patriot," which was created by Chicago filmmaker Steven Conrad. He also earned recognition in theater, receiving a Joseph Jefferson Award in 1990 for his stage work, which often featured autobiographical elements. Prior to his death, Fitzpatrick was preparing a new stage play based on his latest book.
Following his passing, Max and Gabrielle have collaborated on a short film titled "Driven," which serves as a tribute to their father. The film, lasting just over 12 minutes, features Fitzpatrick briefly in his final acting role as a backseat passenger. Max, who graduated from Columbia College Chicago in cinematic arts and sciences, brings industry experience including work on "Patriot," while Gabrielle contributed by learning the craft through close collaboration with her brother.
"Driven" showcases evocative Chicago imagery, including rusted elevated train tracks, murals by Ed Paschke, the Diversey Rock ’n’ Bowl, and the Heart O’ Chicago Motel, alongside a haunting soundtrack by saxophonist Frank Catalano. The film has drawn comparisons to classic urban dramas like "Taxi Driver" and "The French Connection." It premiered as part of the 33rd Chicago Underground Film Festival and has sold out multiple screenings, with potential plans for additional showings or streaming yet to be finalized.
Max and Gabrielle have expressed that their father’s influence remains deeply woven into their lives. Gabrielle described Fitzpatrick as someone who made every shared experience feel like an expedition, while Max reflected on his father as a guiding force who showed him that anything is possible when pursued with creativity and style. Michele, their mother, has expressed pride in her children’s project and believes that Tony would have been pleased with their dedication to honoring his memory.
Through their film and ongoing efforts, Fitzpatrick’s family continues to celebrate his artistic contributions and the personal impact he had on those around him, ensuring his legacy endures in Chicago’s cultural landscape and beyond.