Michael Nyqvist has passed away

Michael Nyqvist, star of The Girl With The Dragon Tattoo trilogy, John Wick, Mission: Impossible – Ghost Protocol and so much more, has died at the age of 56.

The Swedish actor died on Tuesday after suffering from lung cancer for a year, according to a family statement.

“Michael’s joy and passion were infectious to those who knew and loved him,” his family said. “His charm and charisma were undeniable.”

His death was announced “with deep sadness” by a family representative who said that “one of Sweden’s most respected and accomplished actors” had “passed away quietly surrounded by family”.

Educated at the School of Drama in Malmö, he became well known from his role as police officer Banck in the first series of Beck films made in 1997. He was most recognized internationally for his role in the acclaimed Millennium series as Mikael Blomkvist,

Nyqvist described his childhood and quest to find his biological parents, subsequently in his adult life, in his autobiographical novel, Just After Dreaming (Swedish title: När barnet lagt sig). He was married to scenographer Catharina Ehrnrooth and had two children, Ellen and Arthur

Gerard Butler, who worked with Nyqvist on yet to be released action thriller Hunter Killer, shared this:

Sending my condolences to Michael Nyqvist and his family. Incredibly talented and an extraordinary human being. My heart is broken.

A post shared by Gerard Butler (@gerardbutler) on Jun 27, 2017 at 3:48pm PDT