Hollywood star Michael Madsen has died at his Malibu home, as reported by US media, with authorities discovering him unresponsive following a 911 call on Thursday morning. Pronounced dead at 08:25 local time (15:25 GMT), he was 67 years old. A representative indicated that cardiac arrest was the likely cause of death.
Renowned for his portrayal of Mr. Blonde in the iconic 1992 film Reservoir Dogs, Madsen left an indelible mark on audiences with his chilling performance in one of the defining movies of the ‘90s, highlighted by a controversial scene involving violence against a police officer. His illustrious career spanned four decades and featured roles in several other Quentin Tarantino films, including Kill Bill: Vol. 2, The Hateful Eight, and Once Upon a Time in Hollywood.
Throughout his career, Madsen diversified his craft by taking on numerous television roles and portraying both lawmen and outlaws, with notable performances as a washed-out hitman in the Kill Bill series. More recently, he also lent his voice to characters in popular video games like Grand Theft Auto III and the Dishonored series.
Born in September 1957 in Chicago, Madsen was the son of a World War II Navy veteran and firefighter, with his mother being a filmmaker. He also had a famous sibling, actress Virginia Madsen, known for her Oscar-nominated role in Sideways. Madsen's personal life was marked by three marriages and the loss of a son, Hudson, which led to a divorce from his wife DeAnna after 28 years.
Virginia Madsen shared heartfelt reflections on her brother’s passing, describing him as "thunder and velvet," a blend of mischief and tenderness, and emphasizing his profound connections as a father, son, and brother. Michael Madsen’s passing has left a void in the film industry, with many remembering him for his unique contributions to storytelling and cinema.
