Scott L. Schwartz, a popular wrestler-turned-actor, best known for his role in “Ocean’s Eleven,” died at the age of 65.
Schwartz died of congestive heart failure at his home in Covington, Louisiana, Nov. 26, according to multiple reports. His death was confirmed by his wife, Misty, according to The Hollywood Reporter.
“Most people associate Scott with the movies, but those who know him personally associated him with being a jolly person, so full of life, a strong loving person, foodie and travel aficionado,” Misty told the publication.
“I’m sorry to hear that Scott is gone. We did three films together and I’ve never been so gently punched. He was a gentle soul and he will be dearly missed,” George Clooney said of Schwartz in a statement, according to The Hollywood Reporter.
Schwartz played Bruiser in the 2001 film “Ocean’s Eleven” and reprised his role in 2004’s “Ocean’s Twelve” as well as 2007’s “Ocean’s Thirteen.” He worked alongside a number of A-listers, including Matt Damon, Brad Pitt, Andy Garcia, Julia Roberts, Casey Affleck and Don Cheadle.His other acting credits include “The Scorpion King,” “Lost Treasure,” “Fun with Dick and Jane,” “Starsky & Hutch” and “Daddy’s Home.”
Schwartz also appeared on television, with roles in “Star Trek: Deep Space Nine,” “Angel,” “Nash Bridges,” “The Young & Rebellious,” “The Mentalist” and “Castle.”
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Actor Rick Zahn paid tribute to Schwartz in a touching Instagram message Nov. 27.
“Today the world lost a good man. The acting community lost a terrific actor. The law enforcement community in Los Angeles lost a good ambassador and community spokesperson. The breast cancer community lost a staunch supporter. A woman lost a devoted husband. And I lost a dear friend,” he wrote.
Zahn went on to say, “Scott has battled ill health these past couple of years. But with Misty at his side, Scott peacefully transitioned. The suffering is over.”
“This one hurts. I am still grateful that this big-hearted lug touched my life,” he added.
Schwartz began a professional wrestling career in the 1970s and trained under WWE legend Killer Kowalski. He retired from wrestling in 1999 to focus on his acting career.
“Scott truly loved life and everyone that he met along the way. When he wasn’t acting, wrestling or telling jokes he spent his time visiting children with cancer at children’s hospitals,” Misty said, according to The Hollywood Reporter.
Schwartz is survived by Misty, his children, Angela and Adam, and all his beloved family members. (RELATED: WWE Legend Dead At 81)
Other friends, fans and family are paying tribute to Schwartz on social media as the news of his death begins to spread.