Hollywood is mourning the sudden passing of Nicky Katt, a talented character actor beloved for memorable roles in iconic projects such as “Dazed and Confused,” “Boston Public,” and “Boiler Room.” Katt, who captivated audiences for decades with his intense on-screen presence, died at age 54.

His death was confirmed by Katt’s attorney, John Sloss of Sloss Law, who spoke to Fox News Digital but declined to provide further details about the circumstances surrounding his passing.

Born in South Dakota on May 11, 1970, Nicky Katt began his acting journey as a child, debuting on television with an appearance on “Fantasy Island” in 1980. Throughout the 1980s, Katt quickly established himself with roles on beloved TV series including “CHiPs,” “The Facts of Life,” “Quincy, M.E.,” “Father Murphy,” and “Dear John,” earning recognition for his ability to bring depth and authenticity to each role.

Katt’s transition to films came early as well, beginning with his big-screen debut in 1981’s comedy “Underground Aces.” Over the years, he would appear in a wide array of notable films including “Gremlins,” “Sister Act,” “The ‘Burbs,” and “Martians Go Home.”

However, his breakthrough came in 1993 when director Richard Linklater cast him as Clint Bruno, a tough, confrontational teen in the cult classic “Dazed and Confused.” The film became an enduring touchstone for audiences, launching careers for co-stars Ben Affleck, Matthew McConaughey, Parker Posey, Renée Zellweger, and Joey Lauren Adams. Linklater and Katt would later collaborate again on “subUrbia,” “Waking Life,” and “School of Rock.”

In 2000, Katt delivered another memorable performance as Greg Weinstein in the financial drama “Boiler Room,” appearing alongside Affleck, Giovanni Ribisi, and Vin Diesel. His diverse career also included roles in Steven Soderbergh’s “The Limey” (1999) and “Full Frontal” (2001), where Katt humorously portrayed an actor cast as Adolf Hitler.

Throughout his film career, Katt consistently chose eclectic and powerful roles, appearing in Christopher Nolan’s acclaimed thriller “Insomnia” (2002) and later returning to work with Nolan in the blockbuster “The Dark Knight” (2008). Other film credits include notable performances in “Sin City,” “Death Proof,” “A Time to Kill,” and “The Way of the Gun.”

Beyond film, Katt earned widespread acclaim on television as Harry Senate, a passionate but unconventional geology teacher on Fox’s drama series “Boston Public,” which aired from 2000 to 2002. His nuanced portrayal of a teacher fighting for his troubled students deeply resonated with viewers and critics alike.

Katt continued to make memorable TV appearances on series such as “Friends,” “Law & Order,” “ER,” “Monk,” and “The Guardian.” His final on-screen appearance was in 2018 on Hulu’s critically acclaimed series “Casual.”

The entertainment community has reacted with an outpouring of sadness, recalling Katt as an actor whose authenticity, intensity, and emotional depth made him a respected and beloved figure among colleagues and fans. Details about the circumstances of Katt’s passing remain undisclosed, leaving fans mourning and reflecting on the impressive body of work he leaves behind.

As tributes pour in from Hollywood and around the globe, Nicky Katt’s legacy as a talented actor whose roles deeply touched audiences is assured. His sudden loss has reminded many fans and fellow artists alike of the powerful impact he made during his remarkable career.