Michael Clarke Duncan, best known for his Oscar-nominated role in The Green Mile , passed away yesterday at age 54. Duncan suffered a heart attack on July 13, and according to his publicist, he “never fully recovered” from the event. He passed away at a Los Angeles hospital, where he had been undergoing treatment since July.
Duncan began his career as a bodyguard for such stars as Jamie Foxx and Will Smith, before breaking out in his first big role in The Green Mile, a performance which earned him an Academy Award nomination in 1999. He also appeared in and did voice work in several Disney films, including the character Tug in the Brother Bear movies, Wolf in Air Buddies, Future Wade in Kim Possible, and a lion in George of the Jungle 2. He also appeared in such films as Armageddon, The Whole Nine Yards, Planet of the Apes, and provided his voice for Kung Fu Panda.
The 6-ft., 5-in., 300 pound actor was known for his gentle demeanor and imposing stature. He was beloved by many who worked with him, particularly Tom Hanks in The Green Mile. “I am terribly saddened at the loss of Big Mike,” Hanks said Monday. “He was the treasure we all discovered on the set of The Green Mile. He was magic. He was a big love of man and his passing leaves us stunned.”
Photo Credit- Carlo Allegri
