Following the death of Michael Madsen at age 67, his sister Virginia Madsen has spoken about the loss of her brother, a beloved actor famous for his roles in Tarantino’s films like Reservoir Dogs and Kill Bill. Michael also starred in popular movies such as Thelma & Louise and Free Willy.
Michael was found unresponsive in his Malibu home on July 3 after suffering a cardiac arrest. His publicist confirmed his death, and his managers released a statement praising his recent work on independent films and his upcoming poetry book, Tears For My Father: Outlaw Thoughts and Poems.
Virginia described Michael as a complex and passionate man, calling him “thunder and velvet” and “a poet disguised as an outlaw.” She spoke of mourning a real person with a fierce spirit, not just a public figure. She shared how much she will miss their shared moments and promised to celebrate his life when the time is right.
Many of Michael’s co-stars expressed their grief. Harvey Keitel remembered him as a great American poet, while Walton Goggins called him an icon with a unique aura.
The Los Angeles Sheriff’s Department confirmed that Michael’s death was natural and not suspicious. Emergency responders pronounced him dead early that morning.
