Michael Madsen, Prolific Actor Known for Reservoir Dogs, Passes Away at 67

Michael Madsen, famed for his iconic roles in Quentin Tarantino's films, has passed away at the age of 67, leaving behind a legacy of memorable performances and a family that includes fellow actor Christian Madsen.

Hollywood actor Michael Madsen has died at the age of 67 in his Malibu home, as reported by US media. Authorities responding to a 911 call found him unresponsive and pronounced him dead at 08:25 local time (15:25 GMT). Preliminary reports suggest he passed away from cardiac arrest, according to his representative.

Madsen was a notable figure in the film industry, credited with iconic performances in Quentin Tarantino's films including Reservoir Dogs, Kill Bill: Vol. 2, The Hateful Eight, and Once Upon a Time in Hollywood. His portrayal of the character Mr. Blonde in Reservoir Dogs solidified his status in cinema history, particularly for his infamous scene involving a policeman.

Over a diverse career that spanned four decades, Madsen showcased his talent not just in films but also in television, frequently cast in roles as law enforcers and criminals, illustrating his versatility. In recent years, Madsen expanded his creative repertoire by lending his voice to popular video games like Grand Theft Auto III and the Dishonored series.

Born in Chicago in September 1957, Madsen was the son of a Navy veteran and a filmmaker, and he shared a bond with his sister Virginia Madsen, an acclaimed actress known for her role in Sideways, which earned her an Oscar nomination. Throughout his life, Madsen was married three times and was a father of four, including son Christian Madsen, who also pursued acting.

In a statement, his sister Virginia expressed her sorrow, stating, “My brother Michael has left the stage. He was thunder and velvet. Mischief wrapped in tenderness. A poet disguised as an outlaw. A father, a son, a brother - etched in contradiction, tempered by love that left its mark.”