William Hurt Cause of Death: Academy Award-Winning Actor Suddenly Died at 71

By Ashley Malone

William Hurt, an award-winning actor, popularly known for his work in the 1985 movie "Kiss of the Spider Woman" has passed away at the age of 71.

His good friend, Gerry Byrne, confirmed his sudden death to Variety, saying he died of "natural causes" over the weekend.

Born on March 20, 1950, the actor spent his early years in Washington, D.C. His father was a career bureaucrat as his career involved him serving for the United States Agency for International Development and State Department.

On the other hand, his mother worked at Time Inc.

At the age of six, Hurt's parents separated, and his mother later tied the knot with Henry Luce III, a known figure as he was the son of Time Magazine publisher Henry Luce.

The actor initially studied theology at Tufts University in college, but his passion for acting led him to move to Julliard.

One of his first notable roles was a troubled scientist in "Altered States," an acting gig he got after appearing on stage.

His acting career started skyrocketing a year later when he appeared opposite Kathleen Turner in "Body Heat."

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He went on to take over the industry for his performance in the movies "Gorky Park" and "The Big Chili."

Hurt's effort didn't waste as he dominated renowned award-giving bodies like The Academy Awards, where he was nominated for best actor for three consecutive years.

He later won the coveted title for his role as a gay window dresser in the movie "The Kiss of the Spider Woman."

His role made a long-lasting impact in the industry as many critics praised his portrayal, including Roger Ebert of the Chicago Sun-Times, saying he was "a character utterly unlike anyone else he has ever played - a frankly theatrical character, exaggerated and mannered - and yet he never seems to be reaching for effects." (via Yahoo! News)

Later in life, he starred in other blockbuster films like "Jurassic Park" and "Misery," but it was also the time when he suffered from a significant problem in life as he struggled with drugs and alcohol.

In an interview with the Washington Post in 1989, as reported by the outlet mentioned above, Hurt said he was "utterly miserable," long enough for him to stop his wrongdoings and finally change for the better. He later entered a rehabilitation facility.

William Hurt was previously married to Mary Beth Hurt until 1982. He later tied the knot with Heidi Henderson from 1989 to 1991.