Actor Mark Margolis, known for his roles as the menacing Hector Salamanca in the acclaimed TV series “Breaking Bad” and its spin-off “Better Call Saul,” has passed away at the age of 83, as confirmed by his family on Friday.
Mark Margolis died on Thursday at a hospital in New York after a brief illness. He was surrounded by his wife and son at the time of his passing, according to a family statement. His death has left the entertainment industry and fans in mourning.
Bryan Cranston, star of “Breaking Bad,” paid tribute to Margolis on Instagram, expressing his deep sadness at the loss of a friend. Cranston praised Margolis as an exceptionally talented actor and a wonderful human being. Off the set, Margolis was known for his fun and engaging demeanor, while on set, his portrayal of Hector Salamanca was both intimidating and frightening.
Bob Odenkirk, the lead actor in “Better Call Saul,” also acknowledged Margolis’s powerful screen presence, emphasizing the impact he had on the show and its viewers.
The official “Breaking Bad” social media account also honored Margolis, acknowledging his immense talent in portraying Hector Salamanca. With minimal dialogue and the use of his expressive eyes and a bell, Margolis turned the character into one of the most unforgettable figures in television history.
Margolis was born in Philadelphia in 1939 and later moved to New York to pursue his acting career. Throughout his life, he excelled as a character actor, delivering notable performances in various films such as “Scarface,” “Ace Ventura: Pet Detective,” and “Black Swan,” as well as the HBO series “Oz.”
His outstanding portrayal of Hector Salamanca in “Breaking Bad” earned him an Emmy nomination in 2012, solidifying his status as a highly respected actor within the industry.
Mark Margolis leaves behind a legacy of memorable performances and will be deeply missed by colleagues, friends, and fans alike.