The entertainment industry mourns the loss of esteemed actor M. Emmet Walsh, who has captivated audiences with his versatile performances in more than 200 films and television shows over the course of his illustrious career. The legendary actor, best known for his roles in "Blade Runner" and "Knives Out," passed away at the age of 88.

The news of Walsh's demise was confirmed by his longtime manager, Sandy Joseph, who revealed that the actor suffered a cardiac arrest on Tuesday, March 19, at Kerbs Memorial Hospital in St Albans, Vermont.

M. Emmet Walsh's remarkable filmography spans seven decades, leaving an indelible mark on cinema. One of his most iconic roles was that of hard-nosed police captain Harry Bryant in the 1982 sci-fi masterpiece "Blade Runner," where he shared the screen with Harrison Ford's Rick Deckard. Two years later, Walsh delivered a stellar performance in the Coen Brothers' directorial debut, "Blood Simple," earning him an Independent Spirit Award for Best Male Lead.

Known for his distinctive presence on screen, Walsh also left his mark in an array of films including "Straight Time," "The Jerk," "Serpico," "The Gambler," "Slap Shot," "Ordinary People," "Fletch," "Raising Arizona," and "My Best Friend's Wedding." Moreover, he made memorable guest appearances in popular television shows like "Starsky and Hutch," "Frasier," "The Twilight Zone," "The X-Files," "Home Improvement," and "Adventure Time."

In recent years, Walsh graced the silver screen in Rian Johnson's acclaimed 2019 murder-mystery comedy "Knives Out." He played the endearing character Mr Proofroc, the beloved elderly security guard of the Thrombey mansion, where the story unfolds following a tragic murder. Johnson himself paid tribute to the late actor, expressing his admiration for Walsh's professional pride and generosity on set.

Walsh is survived by his niece Meagan Walsh, nephew Kevin Walsh, and grandnephews Emmet and Elliot. His legacy as a talented and beloved actor will forever be cherished in the hearts of fans and the entertainment community.

The loss of M. Emmet Walsh has undoubtedly left a void in the world of film and television, but his lasting contributions and extraordinary performances will continue to inspire generations of actors and moviegoers alike.