Swedish Star Michael Nyqvist Dies At 56

The actor who performed in the original Swedish version of The Girl With the Dragon Tattoo, Michael Nyqvist, died on June 27 at age 56.

“Michael’s joy and passion were infectious to those who knew and loved him,” said in his family in a statement, The Hollywood Reporter reports. “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 passed away after battling lung cancer.

The actor played a role in number of Swedish and English films.

In 2015, he starred alongside Emma Watson in the film Colonia.

Nyqvist also played a nuclear scientist in Mission: Impossible — Ghost Protocol opposite Tom Cruise, while also acting alongside Keanu Reeves in John Wick.

The actor also had cameos in television shows, like 100 code, a Sweden-U.S. series created by Bobby Moresco.  

In 2003, Nyqvist was nominated for an Academy Award in the best foreign film competition for his part in the Swedish film, As It Is in Heaven.

He was married to wife, Catharina, and had two children, Ellen and Arthur.

His former co-workers paid tribute to the actor, CNN reports.

“[He had an] incredible humility, warmth and this cheeky glint in his eyes,” recalled Gerard Butler in a video he uploaded onto Twitter. Butler starred with the actor in an action movie to be released called “Hunter Killer”.

“Incredibly talented and an extraordinary human being,” added Butler. “My heart is broken.”

Fans also posted on the internet expressing their grief over the loss.

“Awwww…just re-watched John Wick a few weeks ago and MN was brilliant as the Russian “mafiya” boss Viggo. RIP – you will be missed :-(,” wrote one The Hollywood Reporter reader.

“Very sad news :(” added another. “Great person, great actor, he will leave a huge vacuum, and will be dearly missed.”

“Such a good solid actor,” said a third.”I was hoping to catch him in some new movies. Sadly, and too young, he is gone.”

“What a shame… I loved this guy… terrific actor,” shared another. “So young RIP.”

Sadly, Nyqvist wasn’t the only celebrity who passed away on June 27. Paddington Bear children’s book series creator, Michael Bond, also died at 91 “following a short illness”, reports AM New York.

“Today is a very sad day,” tweeted the official Paddington Twitter account. “Michael Bond CBE will be missed by many.”

Sources: The Hollywood Reporter, CNN, Gerard Butler/Twitter, AM New York, @PaddingtonBear/Twitter /Photo Credit: Frankie Fouganthin/Wikimedia Commons, Manfred Werner/Wikimedia Commons, Jacob Truedson Demitz for CabarEng /Wikimedia Commons