We’re sad to report tonight that Ryan Nicholson, an indie horror filmmaker with an extensive list of makeup effects credits, has passed away after a battle with cancer.

Ryan’s wife Megan Nicholson wrote over on his Facebook page, “I am greatly saddened to let all his friends and fans know this heartbreaking news. Ryan’s fight with cancer has come to an end. He fought with dignity and looked it right in the face. He made a lot of others with cancer feel strong and gave them the fight they needed. He made everyone who talked to him laugh and feel like today is the best day. He did that every day. Every day with ryan was a great day. He loved you all and wanted to make you all proud. As ryan would say, much love bro!”

As director, Ryan Nicholson made the indie horror movies Live Feed, Gutterballs, Hanger, Famine and Collar through his Plotdigger Films, but Nicholson was also a prolific makeup effects artist who contributed to everything from Scary Movie to last year’s The Predator. As a makeup effects artist and prosthetic designer, Nicholson also worked on “Millennium,” “The Outer Limits,” The 13th Warrior, Reindeer Games, Mission to Mars, Final Destination, Dreamcatcher, Elf, The Chronicles of Riddick, Blade: Trinity, Ghost Rider and Blair Witch.

And that list goes on and on. The Canadian artist was nominated for three Gemini Awards between 2000-2003, winning Best Achievement in Make-Up for his work on “Andromeda.”

All of us here on BD send our condolences to Ryan’s family, friends and many fans.