The entertainment world is mourning the loss of veteran actor and playwright Tom Noonan, who died on February 14 at the age of 74. News of his passing was first shared by director Fred Dekker, who worked with Noonan on the cult classic The Monster Squad. Dekker praised his unforgettable portrayal of Frankenstein’s monster, calling him a “gentleman and scholar.” No cause of death has been publicly announced.

Standing 6-foot-5, Noonan was known for his commanding presence and ability to portray intense, complex characters. His performance as Francis Dollarhyde in Manhunter earned widespread recognition for its chilling psychological depth. He later appeared in films such as RoboCop 2, Last Action Hero, and reunited with director Michael Mann in Heat, further cementing his reputation as a versatile and memorable character actor.

Noonan’s film work also included The Pledge, Synecdoche, New York, and The House of the Devil, reflecting his range across mainstream and independent cinema. On television, he appeared in popular series including The X-Files, Law & Order: Criminal Intent, Tales from the Darkside, and CSI.

Beyond acting, Noonan was an accomplished playwright and filmmaker. His stage works, including What Happened Was… and The Wife, were adapted for the screen, highlighting his talent behind the camera as well. Though often cast in darker roles, colleagues described him as thoughtful, warm, and deeply professional. His legacy endures through the powerful performances he leaves behind.