Mark Margolis was an actor in film and television for nearly 50 years, with roles in such popular hits as “Breaking Bad,” “Better Call Saul,” “Scarface,” and “Ace Ventura: Pet Detective,”
- Died: August 3, 2023 (Who else died on August 3?)
- Details of death: Died at Mount Sinai Hospital in New York City at the age of 83.
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Mark Margolis’s legacy
Born in Philadelphia, Margolis moved to New York City as a teen to pursue acting, studying under luminaries like Stella Adler, Lee Strasberg, and Barbara Loden. Margolis initially began his career on stage, but after a few bit roles, he was cast as Albert the Shadow in Brian De Palma’s 1983 gangster classic, “Scarface,” a small but memorable role that arguably launched his career.
Margolis would go on to have supporting roles in dozens of films and television shows, including “Glory,” “The Thomas Crown Affair,” “Requiem for a Dream,” “Ace Ventura: Pet Detective,” “Black Swan,” and many others. On TV, he appeared in “Star Trek: The Next Generation,” “Law & Order,” “The Equalizer,” and more.
His most notable role came when he was cast as Hector Salamanca in “Breaking Bad.” His compelling portrayal of the formidable don overseeing a drug organization cemented Margolis as one of the best-known TV villains of the time. After his character was rendered unable to speak, Margolis further captivated audiences without uttering a word of dialog, communicating by using a tiny bell. He would reprise the role for the prequel series, “Better Call Saul.” His work as Salamanca earned him an Emmy nomination in 2012 and made him a pop culture icon.
Tributes to Mark Margolis
Full obituary: Philadelphia Inquirer
