Swedish actor Michael Nyqvist — best known from “The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo,””Mission: Impossible – Ghost Protocol” and “John Wick” — has died after a year-long battle with lung cancer. He was 56. The star’s family confirmed the sad news, and actor Gerard Butler posted a video tribute to his co-star and friend.
Nyqvist played the male lead, publisher Mikael Blomkvist, in the Swedish film adaptations of Stieg Larsson’s Millennium series, opposite Noomi Rapace as Lisbeth Salander. (Daniel Craig played the role in David Fincher’s 2011 film “Girl With the Dragon Tattoo.”) He played a villainous nuclear scientist in “Mission: Impossible — Ghost Protocol,” and a Russian mob boss in Keanu Reeves’s “John Wick,” among his dozens of other roles.
Nyqvist’s rep shared a statement with People:
“On behalf of Michael Nyqvist’s representatives and family, it is with deep sadness that I can confirm that our beloved Michael, one of Sweden’s most respected and accomplished actors, has passed away quietly surrounded by family after a year long battle with lung cancer.
Michael’s joy and passion were infectious to those who knew and loved him. His charm and charisma were undeniable, and his love for the arts was felt by all who had the pleasure of working with him. He is survived by his wife Catharina, and their children Ellen and Arthur.”
Fans honored the actor by posting some of their favorite scenes, and actor Gerard Butler taped a message to honor his beloved co-star from the 2017 movie “Hunter Killer,” which has yet to come out:
Sending my condolences to Michael Nyqvist and his family. Incredibly talented and an extraordinary human being. My heart is broken. pic.twitter.com/xYm0IK86dE
— Gerard Butler (@GerardButler) June 27, 2017
RIP Michael Nyqvist. He was so great in John Wick. He basically sold the entire movie with this one scene. pic.twitter.com/2KOKTjdv5y
— Tristan Cooper (@TristanACooper) June 27, 2017
Source: Moviefone