What happened to Nicky Katt? Cause of death revealed days after Boston Public actor’s passing

Nicky Katt at the "Solaris" Los Angeles Premiere at Pacific Cinerama Dome in Hollywood, California. (Image via Getty/SGranitz)
Nicky Katt at the "Solaris" Los Angeles Premiere at Pacific Cinerama Dome in Hollywood, California. (Image via Getty/SGranitz)

New details are coming to light about the Boston Public actor Nicky Katt's demise.

Deadline reported on April 14 that the actor claimed his own life, a statement released by the family noted. Katt’s sister Elise Ravenscroft told Deadline on Monday,

“Today, with the heaviest of hearts, I share the devastating news of my brother’s passing. He died by suicide after battling with depression—one that he fought bravely but quietly.”

Per the outlet, the Dazed and Confused actor was found dead in his apartment in Burbank on April 8. His landlord discovered the body, as he was trying to collect overdue rent. Katt, 54, died by hanging, law enforcement told the outlet. His attorney, John Sloss, confirmed his demise to Fox News on Saturday, though he kept the cause of death under wraps at the time.


The life and legacy of Nicky Katt explored:

In the statement to Deadline, Nicky Katt's sister, Ravenscroft, said:

"This is a pain no family should endure, yet far too many do. Mental illness is real, it is powerful, and it is often invisible. We hope that by sharing this, we can help break the silence and stigma that so often surrounds mental health struggles.”

She continued:

“In this moment of grief, we kindly ask for compassion—not only for our family as we mourn this unimaginable loss—but for every person who is silently struggling. We also ask for privacy to navigate this tragedy and begin the process of healing."

She added:

"If you or someone you know is experiencing depression, please reach out. You are not alone, and help is available. Let us honor my brother’s memory by approaching one another with greater understanding, kindness, and care."

Nicky Katt was most known for his portrayal of Harry Senate in several seasons of the TV show Boston Public, as well as his contributions to Friends and School of Rock. His career spanned five decades, during which time he worked with renowned directors like Woody Allen, Christopher Nolan, and Quentin Tarantino. He also landed roles in ChiPs, Law & Order, and Monk.

According to Deadline, the actor left no suicide note or explanation, and he was dead for a couple of days before his body was found. On Monday, the L.A. County’s Department of Medical Examiner said it had "not positively identified a decedent by that name.” Officials also said they could not “confirm the death of a person by that name.”


Nicky Katt was somewhat of a regular in Richard Linklater's films, and some of his most famous lines include “I only came here to do two things, man: kick some ass and drink some beer” and “Looks like we’re almost out of beer” have become part of quotable movie canon.

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Edited by Deebakar