The sudden death of Rhett Douglas Messerly—better known by his adult film persona Scott Finn—has left a somber void in the world. At just 27, his passing on November 23, 2025, marks the end of a life full of laughter, love, and the kind of light-hearted spirit that can brighten even the darkest of days. While many knew him from his explicit work with Adult film sites like Active Duty and Next Door Studios, those closest to him remember a man who was so much more than his on-screen persona.
RELATED: Dino Phillips Dies at 55: A Gay Adult Star Gone Too Soon
From the Goofball to the Gentleman
Born on February 2, 1998, in Ogden, Utah, Messerly’s family and friends affectionately remember him as a “goofball” and the “handsome boy with nice muscles” during his high school years. The obituary penned by his loved ones paints a portrait of a man who could always be counted on to bring a smile or a laugh to those around him. It’s no surprise then that he was known for his ability to help others, a trait his family holds dear in their memories of him.
Scott Finn: The Man Behind the Persona
Despite his public career, Messerly’s personal life was marked by genuine kindness and empathy. Those who knew him as Doug remember him not just as a talented performer but as a man with an immense capacity for acceptance and generosity. Whether helping a woman dig out her car from snow or simply offering a shoulder to lean on, his ability to make others feel safe and loved was a hallmark of his character.
An Intimate Look at a Public Life
Scott Finn made his debut in adult films in 2018, quickly gaining attention for his undeniable chemistry with fellow performers and his raw authenticity on-screen. But it’s not the accolades or the performances that seem to resonate most with his fans; it’s the heartfelt posts and interactions that made them feel connected to the person behind the character. In June 2024, Messerly took to his social media to share that he had been enduring a difficult year, admitting that a divorce had made life harder than he expected. But, ever the optimist, he hinted at new beginnings, sharing that he planned to focus on his burgeoning chef skills, even setting up new social media accounts to showcase his culinary talents.
A Community in Mourning
Messerly’s death has deeply affected the people who knew him best. Fans, friends, and family have filled his memorial page with tributes, recalling how his presence made them feel accepted, appreciated, and seen. His immense capacity for love and his playful spirit transcended the limits of his profession, making him a cherished individual in both his personal and professional spheres.
A Final Tribute: The End of His Pain
Though details surrounding his cause of death remain private, his family’s obituary shared a poignant reflection on his life. “His pain here is over, and he rests with his Heavenly Father again,” they wrote, finding solace in the knowledge that their beloved son, brother, and uncle is at peace.
Carrying the Light Forward
Scott Finn’s funeral will be held today, December 4, 2025, but for those who knew him, the true tribute will come in the form of a life lived in kindness, humor, and an unwavering ability to make the world a little brighter.
As the adult film industry, his fans, and those who loved him continue to mourn, one thing is clear: Scott Finn may no longer be with us, but his legacy of compassion, warmth, and authenticity will continue to inspire for years to come.
Source: Provident Funeral Home
I am speechless😭 It’s such a sad thing
His whole life was ahead of him 😭😭
Sorry to hear about Scott Finn’s passing. He had such a presence on camera. May he rest in peace
I am so saddened to hear of Doug’s passing. I will admit, I enjoyed his content as an adult performer in that industry. Even while performing and entertaining those of us who enjoy that sort of work, you could see he was so much more than just a “pornstar”. He had active social media accounts that allowed you to see beyond “Scott Finn” and get to know Doug Messerly to the extent social media provides.
I know there are countless people that experience devastating divorces and other hardships in life and somehow find a way to move on.
Does having a career that made him a public figure make him special? No. What made him special is the person he was off screen living his life as Doug Messerly. There are enough tributes from people who knew him in real life to say so. Rest easy, Doug. You will be missed.
I hate to hear this sad news. He was a great guy from what I can tell. Rest easy, young man. Your smile was infectious and your generosity is much needed by more people.
Sad to see such a beautiful soul gone too soon! Fly high and rest easy!