The 54-year-old actor, whose career spanned from the late 1970s to the 2000s, was found dead, according to a media report citing law enforcement sources.
The Los Angeles Medical Examiner has confirmed that actor Nicky Katt, known for his roles in “CHiPs,” “Dazed and Confused,” and “Boston Public,” d.ied at the age of 54.
His family publicly addressed the news on April 14, through a statement shared with Deadline. “Today, with the heaviest of hearts, I share the devastating news of my brother’s passing,” said Katt’s sister, Elise Ravenscroft. “He d.ed by su!cide after battling with depression—one that he fought bravely but quietly.”
Ravenscroft called for increased awareness of mental health struggles. “This is a pain no family should endure, yet far too many do,” she explained. “Mental illness is real, it is powerful, and it is often invisible. We hope that by sharing this, we can help break the silence and stigma that so often surrounds mental health struggles.”
According to TMZ, law enforcement sources said Katt’s landlord discovered his body on April 8 in his Los Angeles-area apartment. The landlord had visited the apartment about a week earlier to remind Katt that his rent was due.
When he returned five days later, he found the door open and walked in to find Katt lifeless. Officers said the actor had been d.ead for more than a day. They found no su!cide note at the scene.
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Katt began his career as a child with a guest role in an episode of “CHiPs.” He later gained recognition for his performances in “Boston Public,” “Boiler Room,” “The Way of the Gun,” “School of Rock,” and “Sin City.” His portrayal of Clint Bruno in “Dazed and Confused” remains one of his most memorable roles.
In addition to those roles, Katt appeared in various film and television projects that showcased his versatility. He played Detective Vitale in “The Brave One,” starred in the ensemble horror thriller “Planet Terror,” and delivered scene-stealing turns in Quentin Tarantino’s “Death Proof” and the joint feature “Grindhouse.”
Katt also had roles in “Snow Angels,” “The Sitter,” and Oliver Stone’s “World Trade Center.” On television, he made guest appearances in shows like “Monk,” “Law & Order,” and “Casual.” Though uncredited, he briefly appeared as a SWAT officer in Christopher Nolan’s “The Dark Knight.”
His performance as Mr. Y in Steven Soderbergh’s “Behind the Candelabra” and as Nathan Kitt in the series “Love Monkey” added to a long résumé of eclectic roles.
Following his death, tributes emerged from colleagues who had worked with him. Director Robert Rodriguez reflected on Katt’s creative spirit, praising his preparation and instinct. “You could always count on Nicky Katt for many things,” he wrote on Instagram.
Rodriguez described how Katt would arrive on set “incredibly prepared for a role with costumes and props” and consistently deliver performances that felt spontaneous, even when he was sticking to the script.
He called Katt “a true artist” and “an absolute joy on and off the camera,” adding, “But I can only be grateful I got to know him, work with him, and watch him create his own truly original brand of magic that will live forever in his favorite medium.”
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The official Facebook page for “Dazed and Confused” acknowledged Katt’s ability to bring depth to every character he played. They also appreciated his unforgettable performance as Clint Bruno. “His intense performances and unique presence left a lasting impact on all of us,” the post read.
Actor Jamie Kennedy recalled working with Katt on a late-night film shoot and remembered him as one of the most naturally funny people he had ever met.
In a post on X, Kennedy expressed regret for not having shared his admiration sooner, calling Katt a “true artist” and celebrating his distinctive presence with phrases and references meaningful to their shared experience on set.
Source: news.amomama.com