Bill Paxton, Star Of ‘Aliens’ And ‘Twister,’ Has Died At 61

Bill Paxton, the only actor to ever face down a Terminator, Alien, and Predator and a face that has graced dozens of great films over the years, has died at the age of 61. Paxton was currently starring in Training Day on CBS, but its status is now up in the air following its premiere earlier in the month. According to Variety, a family representative confirmed his passing via an official statement, citing “complications from surgery” as the cause:

“It is with heavy hearts we share the news that Bill Paxton has passed away due to complications from surgery. A loving husband and father, Bill began his career in Hollywood working on films in the art department and went on to have an illustrious career spanning four decades as a beloved and prolific actor and filmmaker. Bill’s passion for the arts was felt by all who knew him, and his warmth and tireless energy were undeniable. We ask to please respect the family’s wish for privacy as they mourn the loss of their adored husband and father.”

Paxton is a talent that shined across dozens of properties on film and television. A mainstay of James Cameron’s films in the ’80s and ’90s, Paxton gave memorable performances with supporting roles in The Terminator, Aliens, True Lies, and Titanic. He also embodied every torturing older sibling in history with his role as Chet in John Hughes’ Weird Science. And those are only a few of the films where Paxton made a mark. He was truly a genre talent that could fill any role with professionalism. He could be a leading man, as proven with Twister, a young upstart out to break rules like in Predator 2, or he could be an imposing authority figure like he was in Edge Of Tomorrow or on HBO’s Big Love.

While Paxton wasn’t showered with awards, his career leaves behind something better. There’s no shortage of quotes, moments, or characters that won’t live on from his career. That’s an impact that matters far more than any award ever could. Rest in peace.

(Via Variety)