Michael Madsen, ‘Kill Bill’ and ‘Reservoir Dogs’ actor, dies at 67 as fans pay tribute to cinematic icon

LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA: Hollywood actor Michael Madsen has died after he was found unresponsive at his Malibu home early Thursday, July 3, according to officials and representatives.

He was 67. Deputies with the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department responded to a 911 call and confirmed that Madsen was pronounced dead at the scene after finding him unresponsive.

Michael Madsen dies at 67

Authorities believe Michael Madsen died of natural causes and stated no foul play is suspected.

In an email, Madsen’s manager, Ron Smith, confirmed that the actor died from cardiac arrest, NBC News reported. 

“In the last two years Michael Madsen has been doing some incredible work with independent film including upcoming feature films Resurrection Road, Concessions and Cookbook for Southern Housewives, and was really looking forward to this next chapter in his life,” managers Susan Ferris and Ron Smith said, along with publicist Liz Rodriguez.

Madsen was also working on a new book titled 'Tears For My Father: Outlaw Thoughts and Poems', which was currently being edited at the time of his death.

“Michael Madsen was one of Hollywood’s most iconic actors, who will be missed by many,” they added.

Michael Madsen remembered for 'gritty, unforgettable' roles in Tarantino films

Known for his rough-edged, magnetic screen presence, Michael Madsen’s acting career spanned four decades.

He portrayed many memorable characters, particularly in collaborations with director Quentin Tarantino.

Madsen played the role of Mr Blonde, a cruel criminal, in Tarantino’s 1992 directorial debut' Reservoir Dogs', a role that defined much of his screen persona.

He later appeared in 'Kill Bill: Vol. 1', 'The Hateful Eight', and 'Once Upon a Time in Hollywood'.

He also starred in major films like 'Thelma & Louise', 'Donnie Brasco', and more. Madsen was the brother of Virginia Madsen.

Fans pay tribute to Michael Madsen

The news of Michael Madsen’s death sparked a wave of tributes online.

“Nah you must be kidding. Loved him in the Tarantino films and Natural Born Killers,” wrote one person on X.

“Rest in peace, Michael Madsen. A true Hollywood original… gritty, unforgettable, and always authentic. Your legacy lives on in every scene,” shared another.

“Man….that’s awful. So many amazing roles. Reservoir Dogs of course the first one that comes to mind for me personally. RIP, Michael,” commented another user.

“RIP – this legend will be missed,” someone else posted.

“Oh no! Michael was still young. Thoughts and prayers for his family,” added another.

One tribute quoted a line from the song famously used in 'Reservoir Dogs', writing, “Clowns to the left of me, jokers to the right,” referencing Stealers Wheel’s “Stuck in the Middle with You.”

“Thank you for your contributions brother. Rest easy,” another user wrote.

Another said, "Michael Madsen—he was such a vibe. That cool, calm, protective energy. Never yelling, just stealing scenes with a look. Sexy, gentle, dangerous in the best way. Every movie he was in felt better. He made you feel something. RIP to a cinematic icon."

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