Adult Star Dead at 27 After 'Hard Year'
The adult film world lost a young and vibrant talent on Nov. 23, 2025, when Scott Finn, born Rhett Douglas Messerly, passed away at the age of 27. Known for his work in gay adult entertainment, Finn's death has sparked a wave of reflection and curiosity about the man behind the screen name — a Utah native whose life was marked by warmth, acceptance, and a surprising pivot toward creative pursuits beyond the adult industry.
From Ogden to the Spotlight
Rhett Messerly was born on Feb. 2, 1998, in Ogden, Utah, a city just north of Salt Lake City. Growing up in this close-knit community, he was known as a "goofball" among his peers and admired for his athleticism and charm, as reported by the New York Post. His family's obituary fondly recalls his popularity in school, where he was the "handsome boy with nice muscles" and a "schmoozer" who could light up a room with his smile and laughter.
Messerly attended Weber High School in Pleasant View, Utah, where he was not only a sports enthusiast-engaging in football, baseball, and trampoline tricks — but also a competitive card player, often sparking playful brawls with his siblings. His adventurous spirit extended to climbing trees, sometimes requiring rescue by the fire department, a testament to his youthful energy and zest for life,
A Career in Adult Entertainment and Beyond
Scott Finn entered the adult film industry in 2018, quickly gaining a devoted following for his candidness and charisma. His work primarily appeared on gay adult websites such as Active Duty and Next Door Studios, where he was celebrated not only for his performances but also for his openness about his bisexuality. Finn was known to engage directly with his audience, addressing misconceptions and negative comments with a frankness that endeared him to many.
In 2024, Finn began to shift his focus away from adult films, launching new social media channels to showcase his passion for cooking. This transition revealed another side of Messerly — a skilled chef and lover of the outdoors who enjoyed fishing, camping, and tinkering with broken things. His family described him as a hard worker with a creative spirit, someone who found joy in the simple pleasures of life beyond the camera.
A Hard Year and a Heartfelt Goodbye
In what would become his final public message, Finn shared a candid post on social media in June 2025, reflecting on a difficult year and a half marked by a painful divorce. Accompanied by a shirtless selfie, he acknowledged the struggles he had faced and hinted at a newfound sense of freedom, writing that he was "finally single again" after a long period of hardship, as reported by the New York Post.
This post resurfaced after his death, resonating deeply with fans and friends who saw it as a glimpse into the personal battles he fought away from the public eye. The cause of his death has not been disclosed, but his family's obituary offers a comforting note, saying, "We find some comfort in knowing his pain here is over and he rests with his Heavenly Father again," as reported by PEOPLE.
Remembering Rhett: A Legacy of Kindness and Acceptance
Beyond his career and public persona, Rhett Messerly is remembered most for his warmth and kindness. His family's tribute paints a picture of a man with an "immense capacity for accepting people for who they are," as reported by PEOPLE, a quality that made him beloved by many. He was especially empathetic toward women in need, often going out of his way to help — whether by digging cars out of snow, providing meals, or offering a sense of safety to those around him.
His playful nature and charm were also highlighted, with the family joking that he likely had "at least 65 girlfriends at all times," as reported by the New York Post. Yet, beneath the humor was a genuine spirit who brought smiles and laughter to those who knew him well.
A Memorial in North Ogden
Messerly's life was celebrated in a memorial service held on Dec. 4, 2025, in North Ogden, Utah. Friends, family, and fans gathered to honor a man whose life, though brief, left a lasting impact. The service was a moment to reflect on his journey — from a popular Utah youth to a beloved adult film star and creative soul who touched many lives with his kindness and authenticity.
Why Scott Finn's Story Matters
Scott Finn's story is a poignant reminder of the complexities behind public personas and the human struggles that often go unseen. His openness about his bisexuality and his willingness to engage with his audience challenged stereotypes within the adult entertainment industry. His pivot toward cooking and outdoor hobbies showed a multidimensional individual seeking new paths and passions.
References: Adult film star Scott Finn dead at 27 after cryptic final post about 'hard year and a half' | Adult Film Star Scott Finn Dies at Age 27 | Adult film star Scott Finn dies aged 27: 'His pain here is over'
