‘Kill Bill’ actor Michael Madsen dies at 67

Michael Madsen, known for his gritty roles in Reservoir Dogs, Kill Bill, and Donnie Brasco, passed away on Thursday at his Malibu home. He was 67. Famous for playing tough, no-nonsense characters, Madsen became a go-to actor for hard-edged roles, especially during the 1990s.

Though he never reached leading-man fame like Charles Bronson or James Gandolfini, Madsen carved out a solid place in Hollywood. With a rugged look, intense presence, and powerful build, he brought a throwback noir feel to the screen—often playing complex, dangerous men. His work earned him 346 acting credits on IMDb, far surpassing many of his contemporaries.

Madsen’s performance as Mr. Blonde in Quentin Tarantino’s Reservoir Dogs (1992) remains unforgettable. In one of cinema’s most chilling scenes, he dances to Stuck in the Middle With You while torturing a captive officer—an iconic moment that showcased his ability to balance menace with charisma.

He also shined in Donnie Brasco (1997), playing mob boss Sonny in a story about undercover operations within the mafia, alongside Johnny Depp and Al Pacino. Though often cast as a villain or antihero, Madsen's characters were layered and memorable.

Michael Madsen leaves behind a legacy as a versatile and enduring character actor. His presence on screen was undeniable, and his roles will continue to resonate with film lovers for generations to come.