Swedish actor Michael Nyqvist died on Tuesday, at the age of 56, following a lengthy battle with lung cancer. He was surrounded by his family and friends at the time of his passing.
Nyqvist was best known for his portrayal of Mikael Blomkvist in the original Swedish The Girl With the Dragon Tattoo trilogy, starring opposite Noomi Rapace. His big breakthrough in American cinema came in 2011 when he joined Tom Cruise in Mission: Impossible - Ghost Protocol, taking on the role of the main villain. He also later featured alongside Keanu Reeves in 2014's John Wick, a film where he delivered one of the more iconic lines in recent action movie history.
A representative for his family has released the following statement. “On behalf of Michael Nyqvist’s representatives and family, it is with deep sadness that I can confirm that our beloved Michael, one of Sweden’s most respected and accomplished actors, has passed away quietly surrounded by family after a year-long battle with lung cancer. Michael’s joy and passion were infectious to those who knew and loved him. His charm and charisma were undeniable, and his love for the arts was felt by all who had the pleasure of working with him.”
Nyqvist is survived by his wife, Catharina, and their two children, Ellen and Arthur.
Our deepest condolences to his family.