On social media, directors, actors, friends, and fans are paying respect to Tom Sizemore, who died Friday after suffering a brain aneurysm last month.
His immense skill was evident in films like as “Heat” (1995) and “Saving Private Ryan” (1998), and Sizemore stole the show in even minor roles in films such as “Point Break” (1991) and “Enemy of the State” (1998), he was troubled by addiction off-screen.
“In 2015, Sizemore read… [actor Eric Bogosian’s] part during a table reading for Gems,” director Josh and Benny Safdie tweeted, alluding to their film “Uncut Gems” (2019).
“He improvised with the actor next to him, occasionally making up new narrative details… it made an entirely expected encounter unpredictable. RIP.”
Sizemore held his own against cinematic heavyweights like Robert De Niro, leaving indelible imprints in cult classics and Oscar-winning flicks. However, his star began to diminish around the turn of the millennium as substance misuse difficulties and convictions overshadowed his career.
On Feb. 18, the native Detroiter suffered a stroke-induced brain aneurysm, which put him in a coma. Sizemore’s family had been considering an “end of life” decision after doctors at a Los Angeles-area hospital said there was little prospect of recovery – until Friday evening.
Sizemore was 61 years old when he died.
“Jeezuz. Sizemore, Tommy. “Gone,” actor Kim Coates tweeted. “We’d taken a few photos together. So gifted. So tortured. Our lives took various turns, but we’ll never forget our early New York nightlife. The good old days. And he’s now gone. I’m sorry for that. Tommy, rest in peace.”
The Safdies and Coates were not the only ones who remembered on social media. Overnight, they were joined by friends, filmmakers, and others who honored his memory by sharing treasured memories and beloved Sizemore films.
Do you need assistance with a substance use disorder or a mental health problem? In the United States, dial 800-662-HELP (4357) to reach the SAMHSA National Helpline.
