Comedian Patton Oswalt and true crime writer Michelle McNamara were happily married from 2005 until her 2016 passing. Although Patton went on to remarry actress Meredith Salenger, he still holds a special place for his first wife in his heart.
On the 10th anniversary of Michelle’s passing on April 21, the comedian shared a sweet tribute in her honor. Some fans found the post disrespectful to Meredith Salenger, but she didn’t agree.
In fact, Meredith Salenger bravely defended Patton Oswalt’s post and asked for grace and understanding.
Patton Oswalt’s Wife Meredith Salenger Respects the Bond He Shared With Michelle McNamara
GettyTrue crime enthusiasts know Michelle McNamara for her work on the Golden State Killer case. She wrote “I’ll Be Gone in the Dark,” which was officially published two years after her passing.
After struggling with prescription substances, she tragically passed in her sleep on April 21, 2016, at 46. Michelle McNamara left behind her husband, Patton Oswalt, and their daughter, Alice. Patton remarried Meredith Salenger in November 2017.
Even though the family moved forward, they still keep Michelle McNamara in their hearts and minds.
“Ten years gone. Miss you, baby,” the “Ratatouille” star shared on Instagram on April 21. He attached a photo of himself and Michelle in their younger years. While most Instagram users understood the sentiment behind the tribute, others found it distasteful.
“New wife is so mad at this post 😂” one user wrote. However, this couldn’t be further from the truth.
“What a beauty she was. Smart and cool and brave,” Meredith wrote in the comments. “Clearly smart enough to love you and wonderful enough to be adored by you. And she made the greatest kid on the planet. Wish I had known her. I’m so sorry for the heartbreak you and Alice will always hold. I love you both with all my heart. Hugs forever. 💖”
Getty“My heart breaks that the two people I love the most lost the person they loved the most,” the actress also shared on Threads, referencing Patton and Alice. “That they ever endured that sadness that will never go away. My heart aches for them both.”
The Actor & His Second Wife Have a Lovely Relationship of Their Own
After nearly nine years of marriage, Patton Oswalt and Meredith Salenger have built a beautiful life of their own. Meredith understands that her husband has room in his heart for her and his first wife.
In honor of her birthday this year, Patton penned a sweet birthday message for his bride and attached several photos of their happy relationship.
“No one more wise, more beautiful, more connected to what matters every moment of every day. My endless tether to happiness. Happy birthday, @meredithsalenger,” the 57-year-old shared on March 14, 2026, including a photo of Meredith and Alice together.
Fans wish Patton Oswalt and his family all the best as they navigate life together.
