- Mark Margolis, Known for Iconic Role in Breaking Bad, Passes Away at 83
- Family Announces Actor’s Death After Brief Illness in New York City
- Tributes Pour In from Co-Stars and Industry, Remembering His Remarkable Work
Cranston was among those who paid tribute to Margolis, who appeared in more than 100 films and television programs but was perhaps best known for his portrayal of Hector Salamanca, a wheelchair-bound criminal boss.
Mark Margolis has passed away at the age of 83, his family has announced.
According to relatives, the performer “died after a brief illness” at Mount Sinai Hospital in New York City on Thursday.
Morgan and Jacqueline were at his bedside when he passed away.
Margolis has appeared in over one hundred television shows and films, including Scarface and Ace Ventura: Pet Detective.
However, he was perhaps best known for his portrayal of Hector Salamanca in Breaking Bad, in which he portrayed a wheelchair-bound criminal boss who was mute and used a hotel-style bell to communicate.
Margolis reprised the character in Better Call Saul, earning a 2012 Emmy nomination for best guest acting.
In the prison drama Oz, he garnered praise for portraying a Sicilian mob boss infected with HIV.
Bryan Cranston, who portrayed Walter White on Breaking Bad, stated that he was “very saddened” as he led tributes.
He added on Instagram, “Mark Margolis was a fantastic actor and a wonderful person. In the case of Breaking Bad and Your Honour, entertaining and engaging off-set, while intimidating and terrifying on-set.
“His calm vigor belied his mischievous disposition and inquisitive intellect… And he enjoyed telling jokes. I already mourn him terribly. Rest in peace, Mark, and thank you for your friendship and remarkable body of work.”
Bob Odenkirk, who portrayed the attorney Saul Goodman in Breaking Bad and Better Call Saul, characterized Margolis as having a “commanding screen presence.”
He said, “Mark’s quips and remarks in the van on the way to set made me giggle. And I hope I have half his energy and attention when ‘Action’ is called.
“Thank you, Mark, and please convey my condolences to your family.”
“Extremely talented”
Robert Atterman, Margolis’s agent, said, “Over the years, Mark not only wowed audiences with his exceptional performances, but he was also an immensely kind, humorous man who cherished his family.
“His commitment to his craft is evident in the numerous memorable roles he brought to life, mesmerizing audiences with his remarkable range and talent. Beyond his on-screen accomplishments, Mark’s genuine and approachable personality has made him a joy to work with.”
“As an actor and a person, Mark’s enduring excellence and affable demeanor have left an indelible mark on those who have had the good fortune to work with and know him. He will be greatly missed.”
Dean Norris, who played Hank Schrader on Breaking Bad, posted on X (formerly known as Twitter): “So sad to learn Mark Margolis has passed away. A remarkable actor. A man with a humorous disposition. RIP.
“My thoughts are with his family.”
“We join millions of fans in mourning the passing of the tremendously talented Mark Margolis, who with his eyes, a bell, and very few words made Hector Salamanca one of television’s most unforgettable characters,” read a statement posted on Breaking Bad’s official social media accounts.
