Hollywood has lost another star. Powers Boothe, a prolific Emmy-winning character actor on the small and big screen, passed away at the age of 68 on Sunday.
Actor Beau Bridges first announced Boothe’s death in a tweet and was later confirmed by his rep, Karen Samfilippo. According to her, he died in his sleep Sunday morning of natural causes.
It’s with great sadness that I mourn the passing of my friend Powers Boothe. A dear friend, great actor, devoted father & husband.
— Beau Bridges (@MrBeauBridges) May 14, 2017
The veteran actor was known for his versatility. He played many different roles throughout his life, such as antagonists like Curly Bill Brocious in the 1993 Western ‘Tombstone’ and saloon owner Cy Tolliver in HBO’s ‘Deadwood.’
He also portrayed Senator Roark in ‘Sin City’ and it’s sequel ‘Sin City: A Dame to Kill For,’ and other comic book shows and movies, like ‘The Avengers’ and ‘Marvel’s Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D.’
Other roles that demonstrate his great capacities include his character mayor Lamar Wyatt in the country drama ‘Nashville,’ as well as Judge “Wall” Hatfield on ‘Hatfields & McCoys,’ and Vice President Daniels on Fox’s ‘24.’
Back in 1980, the actor earned the Emmy for lead actor in a limited series or special for his infamous role as cult leader “Dad”, Jim Jones in ‘Guyana Tragedy: The Story of Jim Jones.’ By the time of the ceremony, an actors strike was being held, and Boothe was the only acting winner to show up for his award. “This is either the most courageous moment of my career or the stupidest,” he said after accepting the prize.
Other notable film roles included ‘Southern Comfort,’ ‘Red Dawn,’ ‘The Emerald Forest,’ and his memorable portrayal of Alexander Haig in Oliver Stone’s ‘Nixon.’
Celebrities pay tribute to the actor
After the death of the actor was announced, different celebrities took social media to pay homage to Boothe, especially his former co-stars from ‘Nashville’ – in which he played Rayna Jaymes’ father for two seasons – Connie Britton, Sam Palladio, and Clare Bowen, among others. Charles Esten even shared a felt message with a video on Instagram.
So so sad to hear of the death of Powers Boothe. What a legend, what a class act. So grateful to work with him.#Nashville #LamarWyattForever
— Connie Britton (@conniebritton) May 15, 2017
Truly shocked by the news that Powers Boothe has passed away. Such a talented, kind and inspiring man. A true gentleman and a friend.
— Sam Palladio (@SamPalladio) May 15, 2017
Godspeed, Powers. I’ll never forget the sight of you and beautiful Pamela, two stepping on the Ryman stage that day. 💛
— Clare Bowen (@clarembee) May 15, 2017
Boothe was the first member of his family to attend a university
Born in Texas in 1948, he spent most of his youth chopping cotton, but he later became the first member of his family to attend a university. He went to Southern Methodist University to study acting, where he received a degree in Fine Arts.
After graduating, he joined the Oregon Shakespeare Festival and arrived in New York City in 1974. It took him five years for his Broadway breakthrough as a Texas Cowboy in James McLure’s comedy play ‘Lone Star.’ Afterward, he moved to film and television.
Loading…