Michael Madsen, Star of Reservoir Dogs and Kill Bill, Dies at 67

Michael Madsen, the veteran actor known for his iconic roles in Quentin Tarantino films like Reservoir Dogs and Kill Bill, has died at the age of 67. He passed away unexpectedly from cardiac arrest on July 3, 2025, at his Malibu home. His sudden death has left fans and colleagues around the world in shock.

Madsen built a career portraying tough, often dangerous characters with a mix of charm and menace. He rose to fame in 1992 as Mr. Blonde in Tarantino’s Reservoir Dogs, delivering a performance that became one of the most memorable in independent cinema. His role as Budd in Kill Bill: Vol. 1 and Vol. 2 further solidified his reputation as a standout character actor.

Over a career spanning more than four decades, Madsen appeared in over 200 film and television projects. His work included parts in Donnie Brasco, The Hateful Eight, and Sin City. Known for his gravelly voice and intense screen presence, he became a familiar face in both mainstream and cult films.

Born on September 25, 1957, in Chicago, Illinois, Madsen began his acting journey in the 1980s. He trained under legendary acting coach Stella Adler and quickly transitioned from stage to screen. His rugged looks and commanding presence made him a favorite for roles requiring complexity and edge.

In addition to acting, Madsen was a published poet and photographer. His poetry collections revealed a reflective, sensitive side to the man often cast as Hollywood’s villain. Friends described him as deeply creative, with a love for storytelling in all its forms.

The actor’s personal life was marked by challenges, including struggles with addiction and grief over the loss of his son in 2022. Despite these hardships, Madsen continued working and was reportedly involved in several upcoming projects at the time of his death.

News of Madsen’s passing has led to an outpouring of tributes from fellow actors, filmmakers, and fans. Quentin Tarantino called him “an irreplaceable talent and a dear friend” in a statement. Many praised Madsen’s ability to bring depth and humanity to even the darkest characters.

Michael Madsen is survived by his wife, DeAnna, and his children. His family requested privacy as they mourn and expressed gratitude for the love and support from his fans worldwide.

Though he is gone, Madsen’s work continues to resonate with audiences. His performances in Reservoir Dogs, Kill Bill, and countless other films stand as a testament to his talent and enduring influence on cinema.