Oscar nominated actor Michael Clarke Duncan has passed away two months after suffering a severe heart attack.
The actor, who’s best known for his role of John Coffey in the 1999 film The Green Mile, ‘never fully recovered’ after his heart attack.
Michael and his fiancee Omarosa
Publicist Joy Fehily released a statement from Michael’s fiancée Omarosa Manigault-Stallworth, saying the 54-year-old died yesterday morning in a Los Angeles hospital.
“The Oscar-nominated actor suffered a myocardial infarction on July 13 and never fully recovered.”
Omarosa also confirmed the news herself, telling Radar: “I am devastated. He was the love of my life.”
TMZ reports that Michael’s death was sudden, and devastatingly Omarosa had been by his bedside before briefly stepping outside. When she returned he had died.
Her mother is believed to have been present when he passed away.
Celebrities send their condolences
Michael and Tom in The Green Mile
Michael's Green Mile co-star Tom Hanks released a touching message, referring to the 6ft 5 actor as 'Big Mike'.
He said: “I am terribly saddened at the loss of Big Mike. He was the treasure we all discovered on the set of The Green Mile. He was magic.
“He was a big love of man and his passing leaves us stunned.”
And the director of the movie, Frank Darabont, said: “[He was] one of the finest people I’ve ever had the privilege to work with or know. Michael was the gentlest of souls - an exemplar of decency, integrity and kindness. The sadness I feel is inexpressible.”
A number of celebrities took to Twitter to send their condolences, including Lennox Lewis, MC Hammer and Taylor Lautner.
“Just heard the news that @officialmcd passed away. My prayers goes out to his family and @Omarosa during this very sad time,” Lennox tweeted.
MC Hammer said: “One of the best among Men on earth. A gentle giant. Loved him. Pure class and grace. RIP my friend. #MichaelClarkeDuncan
And Twilight star Taylor tweeted: “R.I.P. Michael Clarke Duncan, great actor with a kind heart.
Michael’s career
Michael starred in a few films before The Green Mile, but it was this 1999 film that made him a household name and got him a Oscar nomination for Best Supporting Actor. He was beaten by Michael Caine who won his second Oscar for his role in Cider House Rules.
Michael in Armageddon
Michael also starred in Armageddon, Sin City, Planet Of The Apes and Kung Fu Panda.
Our thoughts are with Omarosa and Michael's family.