Pat Henning (1913-1973) was an American actor known for his compelling presence in character roles, particularly in 1950s cinema. His career is inextricably linked to realistic dramas and to directors like Otto Preminger and Elia Kazan.

He is best remembered for his portrayal of "Sparrow," Frank Sinatra's loyal but tormented friend, in Preminger's celebrated film *The Man with the Golden Arm* (1955). Another significant role was that of the sheriff in Kazan's *Baby Doll* (1956).

Henning excelled at portraying characters often on the margins of society: working-class men, complex figures, sometimes fragile or with a difficult past, but always endowed with a profound authenticity and humanity, which lent his roles remarkable intensity.