Swedish actor Michael Nyqvist has died at the age of 56. He had been battling lung cancer.

The Stockholm-born actor was best known for his role as Mikael Blomkvist in the original Swedish Dragon Tattoo trilogy, which included The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo, The Girl Who Played with Fire, and The Girl Who Kicked the Hornet’s Nest.

He later appeared in Hollywood action thrillers such as John Wick and Mission: Impossible – Ghost Protocol.



Nyqvist’s representative released a statement on Tuesday that read: “It is with deep sadness that I can confirm that our beloved Michael, one of Sweden’s most respected and accomplished actors, has passed away quietly surrounded by family after a year long battle with lung cancer.

“Michael’s joy and passion were infectious to those who knew and loved him. His charm and charisma were undeniable, and his love for the arts was felt by all who had the pleasure of working with him.”

Nyqvist got his start training at the Malmö Theatre Academy, one of Sweden’s leading theaters and where Ingmar Bergman would frequently stage productions in the 1950s. His breakout role came years later, in 2000, when he starred in the Swedish comedy-drama Together, directed by Lukas Moodysson. More recently, Nyqvist appeared in Frank & Lola, co-starring Michael Shannon and Imogen Poots, as well as the BET mini-series Madiba, about the life of Nelson Mandela.

Before his death, Nyqvist also completed roles in thriller Hunter Killer with Gerard Butler and Gary Oldman and submarine disaster Kursk with Colin Firth and Matthias Schoenaerts.

Nyqvist is survived by his wife Catharina Ehrnrooth, a production designer, and his two children, Ellen and Arthur.