Michael Madsen, the gravelly-voiced actor known for his tough-guy roles in cult classics like Reservoir Dogs and Kill Bill, has passed away due to heart failure, according to his doctor. The news confirms earlier speculation about his declining health, marking the end of a decades-long career that left a lasting imprint on Hollywood’s gritty crime and action genres.

Editor’s Note: Madsen wasn’t just another character actor—he was a staple of 90s and early 2000s cinema, bringing an unforgettable intensity to every role. His death is a loss for film buffs who appreciated his unique presence, and it’s a sobering reminder of how even the toughest on-screen personas are vulnerable to real-life health struggles.