The larger than life (literally) Michael Clarke Duncan has passed away at the age of 54. The actor was receiving treatment in a Los Angeles hospital, having never rebounded from a heart attack he suffered in July.
The news was confirmed by a statement released by the actor’s fiancee, Omarosa Manigault. “Michael Clarke Duncan passed away this morning in Los Angeles, said his fiancée, Reverend Omarosa Manigault. The Oscar-nominated actor suffered a myocardial infarction on July 13 and never fully recovered. Manigault is grateful for all of your prayers and asks for privacy at this time. Celebrations of his life, both private and public, will be announced at a later date.”
After guest starring in a number of TV shows throughout the 1990s, normally playing bouncers or bodyguards, the 6-foot-5 300-pound actor appeared in the 1998 blockbuster Armageddon, but really broke through (and received an Academy Award nomination) for his portrayal of John Coffey in The Green Mile. He also starred in The Scorpion King, Daredevil, Sin City, and The Island.
He was as well-known for his ultra-deep voice as he was for his hulking physical appearance. He provided the voice of Commander Vachir in Kung Fu Panda, and voiced Kilowog in last year’s Green Lantern. He last starred in the short-lived TV series The Finder, which is currently airing in the UK on the Universal Channel.
Michael Clarke Duncan – December 10th, 1957-September 3rd, 2012 – RIP