Malibu, California — Michael Madsen, the celebrated actor best known for his gritty roles and longstanding collaboration with filmmaker Quentin Tarantino, has passed away at the age of 67. The news was confirmed by his publicist, Liz Rodriguez.

According to a statement from the Rodriguez family to CNN, Madsen suffered a cardiac collapse and was found unresponsive in his Malibu home on Thursday. Emergency responders were called to the scene, where he was pronounced dead at 8:25 AM local time. Sgt. Jauregui, watch commander at the Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department's Lost Hills Station, confirmed that no foul play is suspected and that the cause of death appears to be from natural causes.

In a joint statement, Madsen’s managers, Susan Ferris and Ron Smith, along with Rodriguez, paid tribute to the late actor’s recent work and ongoing passion for film:

“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.”

They also revealed that Madsen was preparing to publish a new book, Tears For My Father: Outlaw Thoughts and Poems, which was currently in the editing phase.

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

Madsen’s storied career spanned decades, with his breakout role as Mr. Blonde in Quentin Tarantino’s Reservoir Dogs (1992) propelling him into cult status. Despite receiving mixed reviews at the time, Madsen’s performance was widely praised. Legendary critic Roger Ebert noted:

“One of the discoveries in the movie is Madsen, who has done a lot of acting over the years … but here emerges with the kind of really menacing screen presence only a few actors achieve; he can hold his own with the fearsome Tierney, and reminds me a little of a very mean Robert De Niro.”

Madsen continued to work closely with Tarantino in films such as Kill Bill: Vol. 2, The Hateful Eight, and Once Upon a Time in Hollywood. Beyond Tarantino’s universe, he brought his trademark intensity to roles in films like Sin City, Free Willy, and Thelma & Louise.

In addition to his film work, Madsen also made his mark in television and video games. He voiced characters in major gaming franchises including Grand Theft Auto and Dishonored, demonstrating his versatility across mediums.

Tributes have poured in from across Hollywood. Director Joe Russo, known for co-directing several Captain America and Avengers films, tweeted:

“Michael Madsen ALWAYS had bite. RIP.”

As the entertainment world reflects on his legacy, fans and colleagues alike are mourning the loss of a performer whose presence was as unforgettable as the characters he portrayed. With his distinctive voice, piercing gaze, and rugged charisma, Michael Madsen carved out a singular place in American cinema—one that will not be forgotten.

He is survived by his family and a filmography that continues to influence and inspire generations of storytellers and audiences around the world.