Well-known film and television actor Bill Paxton has died at the age of 61 after post-op complications from heart surgery. Paxton is best known for roles like “Titanic,” “Twister,” and “Apollo 13.”
In a statement issued by Paxton’s publicist, a family representative said,
“It is with heavy hearts we share the news that Bill Paxton has passed away due to complications from surgery. A loving husband and father,
Bill began his career in Hollywood working on films in the art department and went on to have an illustrious career spanning four decades as a beloved and prolific actor and filmmaker. Bill’s passion for the arts was felt by all who knew him, and his warmth and tireless energy were undeniable. We ask to please respect the family’s wish for privacy as they mourn the loss of their adored husband and father.”
Paxton appeared in over 20 films throughout his career and won a “Screen Actors Guild Award” for outstanding performance by a cast in “Apollo 13.” He was also nominated for three Golden Globes for “Big Love” and a mini-series “A Bright Shining Light.”
More recently, Paxton had been focusing on more independent and small screen roles. Paxton played the lead in the television spin-off of the film “Training Day,” which was set to air on CBS. Paxton was playing a corrupt LAPD detective that tackled some moral and ethical dilemmas bringing back to some of his most cherished roles. No word yet from the network on how they plan on moving forward.
During “Big Love” in a 2009 interview with Fresh Air’s Terry Gross, Paxton discussed his acting process. “My technique is kind of like the errant schoolboy who has to stay after school and write ‘I will not talk in class’ on the chalkboard. I write it over and over, again and again, until I find I understand the character I’m playing.”
The 61-year-old is survived by his two children and wife of thirty years Louise Newberry.
