John Heard, 71, has been found dead in a local hotel, the Palo Alto Police Department has confirmed. Heard, who starred and appeared in many movies, was also known for his reoccurring role in the HBO iconic series "Sopranos."
According to TMZ, Heard was found dead in a hotel by the Maid Service, which was reported by his family members to the website. His cause of death has not been released yet. Heard played some leading roles in several blockbuster movies throughout the 80s and 90s.
Back surgery
On Wednesday, John Heard had "minor back surgery," according to his rep.
He was staying at the hotel while recovering from the surgery. His surgery took place at Stanford Medical Center, according to TMZ. Heard starred in the "Home Alone" movies and played the role of the dad, Peter McCallister, which was probably his most iconic role in his career.
Heard had major roles in many movies including, "Gladiator," "Big," and "Beaches," along with a long list of others. He was even in the now cult-like classic, "Sharknado." His role on the "Sopranos" as a crooked cop was a bittersweet one. His character was in Tony Soprano's pocket, but he was a likable guy.
Maid service finds Heard
People Magazine reports that while Heard's death is under investigation, they have found nothing suspicious about this death at this time.
When the maid service found Heard unresponsive, a 911 call was placed, but when police arrived Heard was already dead.
Heard has more than 200 credits to his name for stage and screen in a career that spans over four decades. While Heard only appeared in five episodes of the "Sopranos," his role was extremely memorable. He fed information to Tony Soprano in his role as a New Jersey Detective.
'Deceived'
Heard was one of the few actors who could do justice in a comedy role as he did with his many roles in dramas. While not a blockbuster, the movie "Deceived," where he played opposite Goldie Hawn, was a performance by Heard that was flawless. The 1991 movie, which is filled with twists and turns, is similar to an Alfred Hitchcock offering, in which Heard's role made the movie one for sitting on the edge of your seat.
While the "Home Alone" movies might have been the more popular of all the movies he starred in, Heard's performance in "Deceived" was probably his best, and coming in at a close second would be his role in the "Sopranos."
Cause of Death
The cause of Heard's death will be determined by the medical examiner, with no other information on his death released at this time.
