Actor Mark Margolis may be best known for a character he portrayed on the shows “Breaking Bad” and “Better Call Saul.” That character was drug runner Hector Salamanca. Besides this character, Margolis also acted in multiple other TV shows and films including “Pi,” “Ace Ventura: Pet Detective,” “Requiem for a Dream,” “Scarface,” and “Your Honor.”
According to Margolis’s son, actor Morgan Margolis, his father died on Thursday August 3, 2023. An official cause of death has not been released, but according to his son, he suffered from a short illness. He was at Mount Sinai Hospital in New York City at the time of his death. He was 83 years old.
Margolis grew up in Philadelphia. At age 14, he enrolled in his first acting class. After studying at Temple University, he moved to New York City to study drama at The Actors Studio. His teacher was Stella Adler, and in exchange for lessons, he worked as her personal assistant.
His on-screen acting career started in 1976 with an X-rated film called “The Opening of Misty Beethoven.” From there, he was cast in small roles in multiple other films before later getting cast in more notable roles.
Upon hearing the news of Margolis’ death, Peter Gould, a writer-producer for “Breaking Bad” and “Better Call Saul” wrote, “Mark was brilliant, funny, a raconteur with a million stories. I miss him already.”
Meanwhile, “Breaking Bad” star Bryan Cranston shared a tribute on Instagram. He wrote, “Mark Margolis was a really good actor and a lovely human being. Fun and engaging off the set, and (in the case of Breaking Bad and Your Honor) intimidating and frightening on set. His quiet energy belied his mischievous nature and curious mind… And he loved sharing a good joke. I miss him already.”
Margolis is survived by his son and his wife, Jacqueline Margolis.
Watch the video below to hear the late Margolis’s advice for aspiring actors.
Rest in peace.
