Hollywood is mourning the shocking loss of Michael Madsen, the Kill Bill and Reservoir Dogs star who passed away suddenly at 67—even though doctors had recently cleared him as being in good health.
The actor’s longtime friend and assistant, Dougie Smith, is speaking out about Madsen’s final days, revealing heartbreaking new details about his sudden passing.
“He Was the Healthiest I’d Seen Him in a Year”
Dougie tells TMZ that just last Friday, Madsen had gone to UCLA for a routine hospital visit regarding an old injury from a horseback riding accident two years ago.
The actor was dealing with lingering complications from a torn rotator cuff and was considering surgery. Instead, he opted for a brace so he could keep up with his busy schedule.
Adding to the reassurance, Madsen also underwent a PET scan due to a minor brain bleed from the same fall—and according to Dougie, doctors gave him the all-clear.
🗣️ “He looked like he had been in the best health he had been in all year,” Dougie said.
Found Unresponsive by Close Friend
Dougie shared that he last spoke to Madsen Tuesday night, describing their conversation as upbeat.
🗣️ “He sounded great. He was excited for Nashville Comic-Con and looking forward to releasing his new book.”
When Dougie didn’t hear from Madsen the following day, he stopped by the Malibu home Thursday morning and made the heartbreaking discovery.
🗣️ “I found him lifeless in his bed around 8:30 a.m. It’s still so hard to believe.”
Madsen’s Final Projects & Legacy
At the time of his passing, Madsen was preparing to attend Nashville Comic-Con and was set to release his poetry book Tears For My Father: Outlaw Thoughts and Poems.
Known for his gravelly voice and intense screen presence, Madsen starred in over 200 films and became a cult icon thanks to his collaborations with Quentin Tarantino in Reservoir Dogs and Kill Bill.
Cause of Death: Cardiac Arrest
Law enforcement sources confirmed to TMZ that Madsen’s death is being treated as natural causes. His rep, Liz Rodriguez, revealed he suffered cardiac arrest.
Hollywood Pays Tribute
Tributes have been pouring in from Hollywood’s elite:
🗣️ “Michael Madsen was a cinematic force. His talent and soul will be missed.” – Jennifer Tilly
🗣️ “A true outlaw spirit on and off screen. Rest easy, Michael.” – Vivica A. Fox
🗣️ “My brother Michael had a rare mix of intensity and tenderness. I will miss him forever.” – Virginia Madsen
❤️ TPR Exclusive Question:
Which Michael Madsen role will you remember most? Was it his unforgettable turn in Reservoir Dogs or his menacing performance in Kill Bill?
👇 Drop your thoughts in the comments and stay tuned to The Pop Radar for exclusive updates on this developing story.
