Veteran actor Michael Madsen iconic for his roles as Mr. Blonde in Reservoir Dogs and Budd in Kill Billhas passed away at age 67 after suffering cardiac arrest at his Malibu home on July 3, 2025 . A beloved Quentin Tarantino collaborator, Madsen’s four-decade career boasted over 300 credits, including Donnie Brasco, Sin City, and Once Upon a Time in Hollywood .
In recent years, he had been active in independent film titles like Resurrection Road and Cookbook for Southern Housewivesand was preparing to release his poetry collection Tears for My Father: Outlaw Thoughts and Poems . Despite personal tragedy, including the 2022 suicide of his son Hudson and a high-profile divorce in 2024, Madsen remained dedicated to his craft .
Tributes are pouring in from industry peers. Harvey Keitel lamented, “We’ve lost another great American poet.” Vivica A. Fox praised his commanding screen presence and generosity .
Michael Madsen leaves behind a legacy defined by badass brilliance, poetic spirit, and unforgettable performances.
