Madsen was discovered unresponsive at his home on Thursday morning after a 911 call. Authorities indicated he was pronounced dead promptly at 08:25 AM local time. Throughout his extensive career that spanned over four decades, Madsen became best known for his portrayal of the psychopathic Mr. Blonde in Tarantino’s seminal 1992 hit, Reservoir Dogs. His visceral performance, particularly in the infamous ear-cutting scene, left an indelible mark in cinematic history.
Aside from Reservoir Dogs, Madsen featured prominently in other Tarantino works including Kill Bill: Vol. 2, where he played the role of a down-and-out hitman, as well as The Hateful Eight and Once Upon a Time in Hollywood. His versatility extended beyond film to television roles and video game voiceovers, such as in the Grand Theft Auto series.
Born in Chicago in September 1957, Madsen came from a family involved in the arts, with his mother being a filmmaker and his sister Virginia Madsen an Oscar-nominated actress known for her role in Sideways. He is survived by four children, including fellow actor Christian Madsen.
The actor’s personal life was marked by struggles, including a tumultuous marriage to DeAnna, whom he divorced in 2024 following the heart-wrenching loss of their son Hudson. Virginia Madsen expressed profound sorrow over her brother's passing, describing him as a complex soul who was both “thunder and velvet.”
As fans of Madsen grab hold of his iconic filmography, the impact of his performances will be remembered and celebrated in the cinematic universe.
Aside from Reservoir Dogs, Madsen featured prominently in other Tarantino works including Kill Bill: Vol. 2, where he played the role of a down-and-out hitman, as well as The Hateful Eight and Once Upon a Time in Hollywood. His versatility extended beyond film to television roles and video game voiceovers, such as in the Grand Theft Auto series.
Born in Chicago in September 1957, Madsen came from a family involved in the arts, with his mother being a filmmaker and his sister Virginia Madsen an Oscar-nominated actress known for her role in Sideways. He is survived by four children, including fellow actor Christian Madsen.
The actor’s personal life was marked by struggles, including a tumultuous marriage to DeAnna, whom he divorced in 2024 following the heart-wrenching loss of their son Hudson. Virginia Madsen expressed profound sorrow over her brother's passing, describing him as a complex soul who was both “thunder and velvet.”
As fans of Madsen grab hold of his iconic filmography, the impact of his performances will be remembered and celebrated in the cinematic universe.
