BREAKING NEWS: Virginia Madsen Mourns Brother Michael After His Death at 67: ‘I’ll Miss the Boy He Was Before the Legend’

Prolific Hollywood actor Michael Madsen, whose decades-long film career included scene-stealing roles as the rugged tough guy, has died after he was found unresponsive early Thursday at his Malibu home, according to authorities and his representatives.

Deputies responded to the Los Angeles County home after a 911 call early Thursday. Madsen was pronounced dead at the residence.

The death is believed to have been from natural causes and no foul play is suspected, the sheriff’s department said. In an email, manager Ron Smith confirmed Madsen died from cardiac arrest.

“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.,” managers Susan Ferris and Ron Smith, and publicist Liz Rodriguez said. “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.”

Sister Virginia Madsen, who was nominated for a 2005 Academy Award for her performance in “Sideways,” shared a photo of her brother on Instagram with a powerful heartfelt message.

“My brother Michael has left the stage,” Madsen said on behalf of the family. “He was thunder and velvet. Mischief wrapped in tenderness. A poet disguised as an outlaw. A father, a son, a brother—etched in contradiction, tempered by love that left its mark.

“We’re not mourning a public figure. We’re not mourning a myth, but flesh and blood and ferocious heart. Who stormed through life loud, brilliant, and half on fire. Who leaves us echoes—gruff, brilliant, unrepeatable—half legend, half lullaby.”

Known for portraying enigmatic tough guy characters, the gravelly voiced Madsen amassed a long list of film credits during his career spanning four decades. Madsen, the brother of actor Virginia Madsen, brought complex characters to life in “Kill Bill: Vol. 1,” “Reservoir Dogs,” “Thelma & Louise,” “Donnie Brasco” and more.