Oscar-nominated actor James Caan, belovedly known as “Jimmy,” has died at the age of 82 years old. Caan breathed last on Wednesday, July 6, 2022, in Los Angeles, California, as confirmed by his family. However, the cause of death isn’t known at the moment.
The veteran actor was globally known for his work in films like “The Godfather,” “Misery,” and “Elf.” Caan was best known for playing “Sonny Corleone” in the Academy Award-winning movie Godfather (1972). He also got nominated for the Oscar for the best supporting role in 1973.
Industry colleagues and fans have filled social media platforms with tributes and condolences to the late actor. People are remembering the legendary actor for his remarkable work in the industry.
James Caan’s Family Confirmed the News of his Death
The news of the passing of James Caan emerged form his official Twitter account on July 7 at 10:32 PM
It is with great sadness that we inform you of the passing of Jimmy on the evening of July 6.
— James Caan (@James_Caan) July 7, 2022
The family appreciates the outpouring of love and heartfelt condolences and asks that you continue to respect their privacy during this difficult time.
End of tweet
“It is with great sadness that we inform you of the passing of Jimmy on the evening of July 6,” the Tweet reads. “The family appreciates the outpouring of love and heartfelt condolences and asks that you continue to respect their privacy during this difficult time.”
However, Caan’s family didn’t reveal the exact cause of his death. The late actor got married four times throughout his life and he’s survived by five children.
How did James Caan die? What was the cause of death?
It’s speculated that James Caan died due to chronic health issues and old age. He had a history of suffering from depression and also struggled with cocaine issues earlier in his career. However, none of this is confirmed as an official statement on the cause of death is awaited.
Caan’s family didn’t unveil the specific cause of death that led to his departure. People on Twitter are wondering if Jimmy had a heart attack or was it due to an organ failure. We’ll keep you updated once we receive an official confirmation.
James Caan had a glorious career spanning over seven decades
James Caan was born on March 26, 1940, in The Bronx, New York City, to Jewish immigrant parents from Germany. He was brought up in New York alongside his two siblings. He attended Hofstra University and started taking interest in acting From there
New York City’s Neighborhood Playhouse School of the Theatre then accepted his application and he studied acting there for five years. He started his career acting in plays and Television shows in the 1960s.
His film debut happened with 1963’s Irma la Douce where he played a sailor. Caan got his first starring role in 1965’s Red Line 7000. His popularity actually shot to fame when he got the role of Sonny Corleone in The Godfather. He even got nominated for the Academy Awards next year for his role.
Since then, Caan never looked back and his legendary career spanned over seven decades.
In March 2022, while celebrating 50 years of The Godfather, James Caan told NYPost:
“One of the things that made ‘The Godfather’ successful, besides brilliant directing and writing and wonderful actors … was that everyone really enjoyed making it, and that comes off on the screen and I think the audience can tell that we were having a good time doing what we were doing up there.”
Tributes Pouring on Social Media for James Caan
The film industry and fans are saddened to hear the unfortunate passing of the legend James Caan. Social media platforms including Twitter, Facebook, and Reddit are full of users paying tribute and sharing grief-filled messages for Caan’s death this wednesday.
“James Caan. Loved him very much. Always wanted to be like him. So happy I got to know him. Never ever stopped laughing when I was around that man. His movies were best of the best. We all will miss him terribly. Thinking of his family and sending my love,” wrote Adam Sandler.
“So sorry to hear the news. I loved working with him. And the only Jew I knew who could calf rope with the best of them. Love to the family” wrote Rob Reiner, who direct Caan in “Misery.”
“James Caan always had the funniest stories. Once he told me Coppola had the habit of grabbing food off his plate & eating it, so one day he made a sandwich with very hot jalapeños between two pieces of buttered bread, & waited outside Coppola’s airstream…” wrote Jennifer Tilly.
Fans are already mising the late actor and discussing their favorite moments of him. We’d also like to join and offer our heartfelt condolences to the departed soul and strength to his family.