Bill Paxton Dead at 61

Bill Paxton attends the 48th NAACP Image Awards
Paras Griffin/Getty Images
Actor Bill Paxton attends the 48th NAACP Image Awards at Pasadena Civic Auditorium on February 11, 2017 in Pasadena, California.

Bill Paxton has died at the age of 61 following complications from surgery, TMZ reports. Paxton currently stars on the new CBS drama Training Day.

A representative for Paxton’s family released the following statement:

“It is with heavy hearts we share the news that Bill Paxton has passed away due to complications from surgery. A loving husband and father, Bill began his career in Hollywood working on films in the art department and went on to have an illustrious career spanning four decades as a beloved and prolific actor and filmmaker. Bill’s passion for the arts was felt by all who knew him, and his warmth and tireless energy were undeniable. We ask to please respect the family’s wish for privacy as they mourn the loss of their adored husband and father.”

Here is a statement from CBS and Warner Bros Television:

“We are shocked and deeply saddened this morning by the news of Bill Paxton’s passing.  Bill was, of course, a gifted and popular actor with so many memorable roles on film and television. His colleagues at CBS and Warner Bros. Television will also remember a guy who lit up every room with infectious charm, energy and warmth, and as a great storyteller who loved to share entertaining anecdotes and stories about his work.   All of us here offer our deepest sympathy to his wife, Louise, and his two children.”

Television viewers will remember Paxton for his roles on HBO’s Big Love, Agents of S.H.E.I.L.D. and the miniseries, Hatfields and McCoys. He also starred in such films as Titanic, Twister, Aliens, and Apollo 13.

Fellow actors and celebrities posted moving tributes to Paxton on Twitter following the news of his death:

Prior to the premiere of Training Day, Paxton spoke to TV Insider about his relationship with TV and movie audiences. “I think audiences out there know me from growing up with me. I’ve grown up with them,” said Paxton. “For me, I’m like a comfortable, old robe and an old pair of slippers you can put on. Through me, a great young actor like [his Training Day costar] Justin Cornwell can be introduced.”

No word yet on whether Training Day will continue without Paxton.