Michael Madsen's cause of death has been revealed after the actor was found dead in his home.
Madsen, 67, was found unresponsive at his Malibu home last week, with his manager, Ron Smith, confirming that the star had suffered a cardiac arrest.
Managers Susan Ferris and Ron Smith, and publicist Liz Rodriguez, shared in a statement: “In the last two years Michael Madsen has been doing some incredible work with independent film including upcoming feature films Resurrection Road, Concessions, and Cookbook for Southern Housewives, and was really looking forward to this next chapter in his life.
“Michael was also preparing to release a new book called Tears For My Father: Outlaw Thoughts and Poems, currently being edited.
“Michael Madsen was one of Hollywood’s most iconic actors, who will be missed by many.”
Now, Madsen’s cardiologist has revealed that the official cause of death was heart failure, with heart disease and alcoholism understood to have played a role in his passing.
No autopsy will be conducted, as the cardiologist signed the death certificate, according to NBC Los Angeles.
Madsen’s lawyer confirmed that the actor was battling alcohol addiction prior to his death.
The doctor, who has not been named, told NBC Los Angeles about the contributing factors, while the publication highlighted the emotional tributes pouring in for the star, who appeared in multiple Quentin Tarantino films during his four-decade career.
Born in Chicago, Michael Madsen’s acting journey began in the Steppenwolf Theatre Company before making his Hollywood breakthrough in Quentin Tarantino’s Reservoir Dogs in 1992, where he famously played the role of Mr. Blonde.
This marked the start of a long working relationship with Tarantino, including Kill Bill: Vol. 1, The Hateful Eight, and Once Upon a Time in Hollywood.
Known for portraying rugged and complex characters, Madsen’s filmography also includes Donnie Brasco, Thelma and Louise, Free Willy, and Die Another Day. Beyond his legacy in film, Madsen leaves behind his wife DeAnna Morgan, seven children, two siblings, and his mother.
Those close to him revealed that alongside his film work, Madsen was preparing to share his reflections through Tears For My Father: Outlaw Thoughts and Poems, marking yet another chapter in his artistic life that he was eager to share with the world.
His 19-year-old son, Luke Madsen, also shared a touching tribute alongside baby photos with his father, writing: “Some Peoples Hero’s Wear Capes, And Fly Shooting Lasers Out Of Their Eyes. Some peoples Hero’s Can Fight Off Armies And Overcome Anything.
“My Hero Wore A Cowboy Hat. My Hero Stood Taller And Stronger Than Any Man I’ve Ever Met. My Hero Understood Me Better Than Anyone.
“My Hero Is The Coolest Most Bada** Human Being I Know. Not Only Was My Hero A Famous Tough Guy Movie Star. My Hero Was My Father. And He Was. Damn Good One.”
He concluded: “Love You Pops. I’ll See You Again Someday. Tell Hudson I Said Hi.”
His message referenced Madsen's son, Hudson Madsen, who died by suicide in January 2022 at the age of 26.
Our thoughts remain with Madsen's loved ones during this difficult time.