Mike Mitchell was one of the stars of the iconic Hollywood films Gladiator and Braveheart.
He has passed away on a boat in Turkey at the age of just 65, according to reports by TMZ.
His family believe it was due to natural causes.
Back in 2006, Mitchell suffered a serious heart attack.
Mitchell’s rep told TMZ: “It was very hard to believe … The sudden death of an international actor we managed, an honest person, a real actor, a true friend, my dear friend, has saddened us deeply.
“I’ve always been honored to be your manager. I wish patience to you wife, dear Denise Mitchell, and your children.
“Getting to know you and gaining your friendship is invaluable. Sleep in the lights. RIP.”
Before breaking into acting, Mitchell was a renowned bodybuilder.
He won Mr. Universe, as well as many World Fitness Federation’s Fitness World Championships.
Mitchell also competed to be Britain’s Strongest Man, and won 5 Masters Mr. World titles.
Back in 2010, his hard work was rewarded with the WWF’s highest honour, the Living Legend Award.
He broke into acting back in 1994.
Due to his bodybuilding success and his enormous stature, he was cast in ‘Braveheart’ because he looked imposing.
Following his breakthrough role, he also appeared in Gladiator, The Planet, City of Hell, Life on the Line, and even Emmerdale.
He worked alongside the likes of Andrew Garfield, David Morrissey, Peter Mullins, Sean Bean, John Henshaw, Tara Cardinal, Bill Murray, Craig Fairbrass and many more.
One of his directors, Mark Stirton has paid tribute to Mike on Twitter: “Gutted to hear about the death of my old friend and actor in three of my films, Mike Mitchell.
“So long Big Mike.”
Talat Atilla, who acted with Mike in Aylan Baby, tweeted: “Friend of Turkey, actor in Gladiator, my co-star in the movie Aylan Baby, Mike Mitchell has just died.
“He was a good person, I ask God’s mercy, I am sad, I am also very sorry.”
A fan shared a memory of him: “Nice chap, retraining before he opened gym. Sometimes came in after a weekend’s bodybuilding competition still toned and tanned,
“Hard and determined, leaves big memories,” he added.
He lived on a boat in Turkey with his wife, and lived a varied life.
Mitchell also competed in show-jumping in the past, and originally started out life as a combat frogman from the age of just 16-years-old.
He went on to specialise in small arms, explosives and bomb disposal, and became part of HM Elite Special Forces.
Mitchell also offered skippered yacht charters, advertised as “Sail With Mike.”
Source: Celebrities - dailystar.co.uk
