William Hurt, Oscar-winning star of stage and screen, died today at the age of 71. According to a statement from the actor’s family (via Deadline), Hurt died of natural causes and was surrounded by friends and family at the time of his death. This announcement was confirmed with a family friend by Variety.
Over the course of his 40-year career, Hurt was nominated for four separate Academy Awards for his performances in “Kiss of the Spider Woman,” “Children of a Lesser God,” “Broadcast News,” and “A History of Violence.” He worked with directors ranging from Chantal Akerman to Steven Spielberg to David Cronenberg, proving himself as capable in arthouse passion projects as Hollywood blockbusters. At only 71, one expected – and hoped – that Hurt had a final act left in his career and more opportunities to remind new generations of his brilliance.
This week will bring with it time for reflections of his work and opportunities to revisit our favorite roles – for now, our condolences go out to his loved ones.