Remembering Tom Sizemore: A Talented Actor Gone Too Soon
Tom Sizemore Passes Away at 61
Renowned actor Tom Sizemore, best known for his role in Saving Private Ryan, passed away at the age of 61. In the 1990s, Sizemore gained fame for frequently portraying tough guys in supporting roles. On February 18th, he suffered a brain aneurysm, according to his spokesperson, Charles Lago.
“He is in the hospital. His family is aware of the circumstances and is wishing for a positive outcome. He is in critical condition and is being monitored, therefore it is too soon to know about [a] recovery status,” Lago said.
Sizemore lost consciousness at his Los Angeles home and was rushed to the hospital. Doctors informed the family that “there is no further hope,” leading them to make decisions about end-of-life concerns. On March 3, the family chose to take him off life support.
Surrounded by Loved Ones
Lago announced that the actor, Thomas Edward Sizemore, passed away peacefully in his sleep at St. Joseph’s Hospital in Burbank. His twin sons, Jayden and Jagger (17), and his brother Paul were by his side.
“I am extremely heartbroken by the passing of my big brother Tom,” his brother Paul Sizemore said in a statement, as quoted by Variety. “He was enormous in size. More than anyone I know, he has had an impact on my life. He was gifted, kind, and generous, and his wit and storytelling prowess could keep you amused for hours. I will always mourn him and am crushed by his passing.”
A Successful Career and Personal Struggles
In addition to his role in Saving Private Ryan, Sizemore appeared in “Born on the Fourth of July” with Tom Cruise, “Pearl Harbor” with Ben Affleck, and the TV series “Twin Peaks.” He also produced and wrote for various projects.
Sizemore faced legal troubles throughout his life, including a 2003 domestic abuse conviction involving his then-girlfriend Heidi Fleiss, and a several-month prison sentence in 2005 for attempting to forge a urine test. However, he was open about his struggles, particularly his efforts to stay sober.
“Since 1991, I’ve been attempting to quit drinking. Much later than that, although I was trying to stop, it started making pretty huge headlines. I’ve had an issue for a while. I would end up relapsing after long periods of abstinence,” Tom admitted in the past.
In 2010, Sizemore participated in the third season of the reality TV show Celebrity Rehab with Dr. Drew.
Tom Sizemore will be greatly missed. May he rest in peace.