Mark Margolis, known for his famous roles in Breaking Bad and Better Call Saul, has passed away at the age of 83 after battling a short illness. He breathed his last at Mount Sinai Hospital in New York City. The news of his passing deeply saddened fans, colleagues, and the entertainment industry at large. With a career spanning several decades, Margolis earned a reputation as a versatile talent, leaving an indelible mark on the entertainment industry. As we remember this exceptional actor, here are 5 things we bet you didn't know about him, who left an unforgettable mark on the silver screen.
.Who was Mark Margolis?
Mark Margolis was a versatile and accomplished actor, born on November 26, 1939, into a Jewish family in Philadelphia. He was the son of Fanya, a decorator, and Isidore, a factory worker. Margolis took his first acting class at the age of 14, and his passion for the craft led him to move to New York City to study drama with the legendary acting teacher Stella Adler at The Actors Studio. He later became a lifetime member of the prestigious institution.
He received invaluable training from legendary acting teacher Stella Adler, becoming her personal assistant for nearly three years. This experience further honed his skills and shaped his approach to acting. Over the years, Margolis showcased his versatility in various films and television shows, earning widespread acclaim for his performances
Margolis’ journey as an actor and beyond
Mark Margolis is known for his iconic roles in Breaking Bad and Better Call Saul. With a career spanning decades, Margolis left an indelible mark on both the big and small screens. His son, actor and Knitting Factory Entertainment CEO Morgan Margolis, announced the news of his passing.
Margolis lived in Tribeca for many years, where he honed his acting skills and embarked on his journey as a professional actor. He had a fascinating career that spanned across films and television, delivering memorable performances in Scarface, Ace Ventura: Pet Detective, Oz, and notably, as Hector Salamanca in Breaking Bad and Better Call Saul. His work with acclaimed director Darren Aronofsky in several films further solidified his reputation as a talented and versatile actor.
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Scarface, Ace Ventura, Oz, and more
Mark Margolis showcased his acting prowess in numerous acclaimed movies and TV shows.
He portrayed the vengeful drug runner Hector Salamanca in 'Breaking Bad' and 'Better Call Saul,' earning him an Emmy nomination for outstanding guest actor in a drama series. Margolis's portrayal of Tio Salamanca on Breaking Bad left an everlasting impression on fans. Paralyzed and able to communicate only through facial expressions and a bell attached to his wheelchair, Margolis drew inspiration from his late mother-in-law's contortions. He once remarked, "The role is an homage to Shirley, who was actually a 1930s Earl Carroll Follies dancer."
Margolis showcased his versatility with roles like the Bolivian henchman Alberto the Shadow in Scarface (1983), the gravelly voiced landlord Mr. Shickadance in Ace Ventura: Pet Detective (1994), and the HIV-infected mob boss Antonio Nappa in HBO’s Oz from 1998 to 2003.
Collaboration with Darren Aronofsky
Margolis had a special bond with filmmaker Darren Aronofsky, appearing in six of his movies. From playing an aging math teacher in Pi to a fallen angel in Noah, Margolis's performances added depth and richness to Aronofsky's films. Reflecting on their collaboration, Margolis humorously recalled, "He thinks he has an obligation! I started with him on his first movie when he was unknown. I finally threatened to call his mother, who was craft services on the film. Then he finally paid me."
Farewell to a legend
Throughout his illustrious career, Margolis displayed a range of talents, touching the hearts of audiences with each performance. From his early days assisting acting legend Stella Adler to his unforgettable roles in iconic films and television series, he left a lasting legacy in the entertainment world. Peter Gould, writer-producer of Breaking Bad and Better Call Saul, paid tribute to Margolis, saying, "Mark was brilliant, funny, a raconteur with a million stories. I miss him already."
Despite his immense talent, Mark Margolis remained down-to-earth and candid about the realities of the acting profession. He once revealed, "They think that I'm some sort of rich guy, that everyone in the movies is making the kind of money Angelina Jolie is making. They don't realize that most of my life has been a struggle."
Mark Margolis leaves behind a legacy of unforgettable performances and endearing memories. His impact on the entertainment industry will be cherished and celebrated by fans and colleagues alike. The industry mourns the loss of a true gem.
