James McCaffrey, the voice of Max Payne, dies aged 65

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By stefan armitage

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James McCaffrey - best known for lending his voice to the iconic video game character Max Payne - has sadly passed away at the age of 65, TMZ first reported.

The renowned actor and voice talent's death follows a battle with multiple myeloma, a form of bone marrow cancer.

McCaffrey's passing occurred on Sunday (December 17), and he was surrounded by loved ones during his final moments, a rep for the star told TMZ.

The news of his demise was shared by actor Kevin Dillon on Instagram, where he expressed his grief and paid tribute to his dear friend.

"RIP James McCaffrey," Dillon's post read. "We were lucky to have known you. My best friend, you will be missed."

In a statement provided to TMZ, a representative for the actor reflected on McCaffrey's impressive career, which spanned 35 years in television and film. McCaffrey, who was trained at the Actor's Studio, possessed a unique ability to bring characters to life.

As we remember James McCaffrey, we honor his significant contributions to the entertainment world and the lasting impact he had on those who had the privilege of working with him and enjoying his performances. His legacy lives on through his work and the memories he created.

With a career spanning decades, McCaffrey not only became a recognizable face in the entertainment industry - but a recognizable voice too.

Born on July 18, 1959, in Belfast, Northern Ireland, McCaffrey's journey into the entertainment world began with a passion for acting that burned bright from a young age. He honed his craft at the prestigious New York University's Tisch School of the Arts, a proving ground for many aspiring actors.

McCaffrey's screen debut came in the 1986 crime drama Native Son. While the film served as a stepping stone, it was his role as Max Payne in the iconic video game series that catapulted him to fame.

Gamers around the world instantly recognized McCaffrey's gritty, noir-inspired voice as Max Payne, the tormented and relentless detective. His portrayal added depth to the character, making players empathize with Max's pain and quest for justice. Max Payne became a gaming legend, and McCaffrey's performance was instrumental in its success.

But McCaffrey's talents weren't confined to the virtual realm. He seamlessly transitioned to television, landing notable roles in series like Rescue Me, Suits, and Blue Bloods. His on-screen presence brought gravitas to each character, earning him a dedicated fan base that appreciated his range as an actor.

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Credit: Chance Yeh / Getty

In the world of voice acting, McCaffrey's credits read like a who's who of iconic characters. He lent his voice to characters in popular video games such as Alan Wake, Halo 3, and Mafia III. Gamers not only played these titles but also immersed themselves in the intricate stories, thanks in part to McCaffrey's contributions.

In addition to his acting and voice work, McCaffrey is an accomplished stage actor. He graced New York City's theater scene, showcasing his versatility in plays that ranged from classical dramas to contemporary works.

James McCaffrey's career serves as a testament to his dedication to his craft. A respected actor and voice talent; he leaves behind an indelible mark on the worlds of film, television, and video games.

James McCaffrey is survived by his wife, Rochelle Bostrom, and his daughter, Tiernan.

Our thoughts go out to McCaffrey's family, friends, and fans at this time.

Featured image credit: Chance Yeh / Getty