Emmy-nominated actor Mark Margolis, renowned for his iconic portrayal of the murderous former drug kingpin Hector Salamanca in “Breaking Bad” and its prequel “Better Call Saul,” passed away at the age of 83.
According to a statement from his son, Morgan Margolis, the actor breathed his last at Mount Sinai Hospital in New York after a brief illness.
Mark Margolis received critical acclaim for his role as Hector Salamanca, the elder don of a drug clan who suffered from speech and mobility impairments following a stroke. His exceptional performance earned him an Emmy nomination for Outstanding Guest Actor in 2012. The character’s compelling backstory continued to captivate audiences in “Better Call Saul,” where Margolis guest-starred from 2016 to 2022.
Apart from his television success, Mark Margolis was a distinguished presence in the world of cinema, notably collaborating with director Darren Aronofsky in films such as “Noah,” “Black Swan,” “The Wrestler,” and “Pi.” He also left an indelible mark as Alberto “The Shadow” in the classic movie “Scarface.” His filmography further included prominent roles in “The Thomas Crown Affair,” “Gone Baby Gone,” and “Stand Up Guys.”
Born in Philadelphia in 1939, Margolis honed his acting craft under the tutelage of esteemed teacher Stella Adler in New York. Early in his career, he devoted himself to the stage, participating in numerous off-Broadway productions, including works at the esteemed Public Theater in New York. Additionally, he showcased his talent on Broadway in “Infidel Caesar,” a play inspired by Shakespeare’s “Julius Caesar.” Margolis was also the founder of Blue Dome, a touring theater troupe.
Mark Margolis is survived by his wife of 61 years, Jacqueline Margolis, and his son Morgan, who holds the position of CEO at Knitting Factory Entertainment. In respect of the actor’s wishes, the family intends to hold a private memorial and funeral to celebrate his life and legacy. The entertainment industry mourns the loss of a remarkable talent whose contributions have left an enduring impact on audiences worldwide.
We join millions of fans in mourning the passing of the immensely talented Mark Margolis, who – with his eyes, a bell, and very few words – turned Hector Salamanca into one of the most unforgettable characters in the history of television. He will be missed. pic.twitter.com/gVt8IzxgPw
— Breaking Bad (@BreakingBad) August 4, 2023