Remembering Michael Massee: Actor In "The Crow" & More
What does it mean to be remembered not only for your craft but also for a tragic accident that cast a long shadow over a career? Michael Massee, a character actor known for his chilling portrayals of villains, and the man who inadvertently shot Brandon Lee on the set of "The Crow," passed away, leaving behind a legacy far more complex than a single, devastating moment.
The news of Massee's death, on October 20, 2016, at the age of 61, sent ripples of remembrance through the film community. Announced first by actor Anthony Delon via an Instagram post, the passing marked the end of an era for those who appreciated his distinct presence on screen. He was survived by his wife, Ellen Sussdorf, whom he had married in 1997. The actor had succumbed to stomach cancer, as confirmed by his wife. The world will always remember Michael Massee for his acting skills, but he will also be known for an accident in which he accidentally fatally shot Brandon Lee on the set of their 1994 film "The Crow".
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Michael Massee |
| Date of Birth | September 1, 1952 |
| Place of Birth | Kansas City, Missouri, USA |
| Date of Death | October 20, 2016 (Age 61) |
| Cause of Death | Stomach Cancer |
| Nationality | American |
| Known For | Character Actor, Roles as Villains, Accidental Shooting of Brandon Lee |
| Spouse | Ellen Sussdorf (Married 1997) |
| Children | Jack, Lily |
| Education | Hunter College, New York |
| Film Debut | "My Father is Coming" (1991) |
| Notable Works | "The Crow" (1994), "Se7en" (1995), "The Game" (1997), CSI: Crime Scene Investigation, 24 |
| Languages | English, French (Fluent) |
| Other Business | Co-owner of a clothing boutique in Los Angeles |
| Agent | Greene & Associates |
| Public Records | Radaris |
Massee's life, beyond the headlines, was one of a dedicated performer. Born in Kansas City, Missouri, on September 1, 1952, he spent a portion of his formative years in Paris, where his family moved in 1955 when his father accepted a position with UNESCO. This early exposure to French culture would later prove advantageous; he was fluent in French, a fact that undoubtedly enriched his acting and opened opportunities. Returning to the United States, he enrolled at Hunter College in New York, a step that preceded his entry into the world of acting.
He embarked on his acting career at a relatively late age, a path that would lead him to carve a unique niche for himself in Hollywood. His physical presence, a striking combination of intensity and vulnerability, coupled with an undeniable talent for portraying morally ambiguous characters, quickly made him a sought-after actor. He was frequently cast as the antagonist, the menacing figure lurking in the shadows, and he embraced these roles with an almost singular focus.
His film debut in 1991, "My Father Is Coming," offered a glimpse of his future, but it was his role as Funboy in the cult classic "The Crow" in 1994 that would forever intertwine his name with tragedy. During the filming, a prop gun, loaded with improperly prepared ammunition, accidentally discharged, fatally wounding Brandon Lee, the son of Bruce Lee. The incident, a devastating accident, was a life-altering event for Massee, who was reportedly deeply affected by the tragedy. It was a role he was never truly able to escape, and one that defined, in a peculiar way, the rest of his career.
Despite the shadow cast by this event, Massee continued to work, amassing nearly 80 screen credits throughout his career. His ability to command attention, to embody the dark undercurrents of human nature, kept him in demand. He appeared in numerous high-profile projects, showcasing his versatility within a specific type of character. He wasn't just a villain; he brought nuance and complexity to his roles, making each performance memorable, and proving his prowess and skill as an actor, showcasing his ability to embody different types of characters.
He would go on to appear in "Se7en" (1995), a neo-noir thriller where he played the character of a man who does nothing but sit in a chair for a whole year, and The Game (1997), with both helping to solidify his place as a versatile actor. His work extended to television, with guest appearances on popular series such as "CSI: Crime Scene Investigation," "Cold Case," "Supernatural," and "24," solidifying his reputation for playing the bad guy. He seemed to have an effortless ability to play a villain, and he played it well. The consistency of his performances spoke volumes about his craft.
Massee's personal life offered a contrasting perspective to his on-screen persona. In 1997, he married Ellen Sussdorf, and together they built a life that included two children, Jack and Lily. The couple also shared a passion for fashion, which led them to own a clothing boutique in Los Angeles. The clothing boutique, a testament to their shared interests, provided an interesting glimpse into his life beyond acting. It was a personal project, a means of expressing his creative side outside the confines of acting.
The impact of Massee's passing was felt not just within the film industry, but also among those who had worked alongside him. Actress Angie Harmon tweeted, "My heart is heavy to hear of his passing. He was immensely talented & had the kindest soul." These sentiments, shared by many, painted a picture of a man who was not just a gifted actor, but also a person of warmth and kindness.
Ellen Massee, his wife, confirmed the cause of death as stomach cancer. This was a battle fought privately, yet its outcome served as a poignant reminder of life's fragility. The actor's death, at the age of 61, was a loss felt across the film community. His passing marked the end of a three-decade career, a career marked by memorable performances and one unavoidable tragedy. His legacy lives on, a complicated tapestry woven from artistic triumphs and the inescapable shadow of "The Crow."
The discussion surrounding Ellen Massee also reveals the complex reality of life after loss. Beyond the immediate grief, there are practical considerations, such as where to find someone or how to reconnect with them. The search for Ellen Massee's contact information highlights the human desire to connect, to offer support, and to continue the relationships that shape our lives. Public records and social media profiles often become a means of finding contact with people after tragedies.
Massees life, viewed through a lens of both professional triumph and the tragic event, serves as a reminder of the complexities of celebrity and the human condition. His memory continues to live on through the films he created, the roles he portrayed, and the impact he made on those who knew him. He will always be remembered as a talented actor.
