Very tragic news. Actor Michael Clarke Duncan died this morning in Los Angeles, reports the Associated Press. The wire service has attributed the report to reality star Omarosa Manigault-Stallworth, who was the late actor's fiancée. Duncan was only 54-years-old.
The Chicago-born, actor was best known for his breakout role in The Green Mile. Duncan portrayed John Coffey, the gentle giant with supernatural powers who was wrongly condemned to death row. Duncan's critically acclaimed role earned Academy Award- and Golden Globe-nominations for Best Supporting Actor.
The 6ft 5in, 300 pound star would eventually appear in dozens of films, including The Whole Nine Yards, Planet of the Apes, The Island and The Scorpion King, where he starred alongside his friend actor Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson.
Duncan recently suffered a heart attack on July 13. Manigault-Stallworth reportedly saved his life at the time by performing CPR. Duncan reportedly was moved from intensive care in August but remained hospitalized, suggesting that the actor was having a difficult recovery. "Everyday GOD continues to smile upon my luv Michael Clarke Duncan on this arduous road to recovery," his girlfriend tweeted last month.
On a personal note, I've had the good fortune to personally meet Michael Clarke Duncan on two separate occasions. He was warm, engaging and exuded confidence and humor. Such a loss.
Take a virtual walk down memory lane and watch several video clips from Michael Clarke Duncan's career AFTER THE JUMP ...
OMG. This is horrible!
Posted by: Jose Martinez | 03 September 2012 at 17:56
smh
Posted by: MJ | 03 September 2012 at 18:01
There's another angel in heaven. RIP Michael Clark Duncan, the gentle giant who inspired so many people. #TearingUp
Posted by: Curry | 03 September 2012 at 18:27
So very sad hearing this. He always seemed like a terrific person
Posted by: Reggieh | 03 September 2012 at 18:56
Aw. RIP big man. Seemed very likeable on film and liked by his peers.
Posted by: Jackson | 03 September 2012 at 19:46
Damn. I liked him in everything I ever saw him in. So very very sad.
Posted by: CJ | 03 September 2012 at 19:49
Does anyone know what precipitated the heart attack?
Posted by: Barry T | 03 September 2012 at 19:55
I loved the Green Mile. It was very moving and he was a great actor. To be honest, I loved all the films he did. I can't forget him singing Leaving on a Jet Plane in Armageddon. It was a funny scene. He will be missed.
Barry T, not sure what precipitated the heart attack. I do know of people who are very healthy that have had heart attacks though. They seem to affect anyone regardless of health, I know that sounds like generalizing.
It's such a shame.
Posted by: Mike | 04 September 2012 at 16:57