Credit: Steve Granitz / Getty
Nicky Katt, known for his standout role in Dazed and Confused and a guest spot on Friends, died by suicide.
His family confirmed the news. He was 54.
Katt’s landlord found him on April 8 in his Burbank apartment while trying to collect overdue rent.
Law enforcement said Katt died by hanging.
The Los Angeles County Medical Examiner first said they hadn’t confirmed a death under Katt’s name.
By early Monday afternoon, they released a report listing the cause of death as “hanging” and the manner as “suicide,” according to Deadline.
“With the heaviest heart, I share the devastating news of my brother’s passing,” Elise Ravenscroft told Deadline.
She said Katt died by suicide after quietly and bravely battling depression.
“No family should feel this pain, yet too many do,” she continued.
“Mental illness is real, powerful, and often invisible.”
She said the family hopes sharing his story will help break the silence and stigma around mental health.
Ravenscroft also asked for compassion and privacy.
“As we mourn this loss, we ask for kindness—not just for us, but for anyone silently struggling,” she said.
“We also ask for privacy as we grieve and begin healing.”
“If you or someone you know is experiencing depression, please reach out,” Ravenscroft said.
“You are not alone, and help is available.”
She asked others to honor her brother’s memory with more understanding, kindness, and care.
Katt built a steady career as a versatile supporting actor in both film and television.
He’s best remembered for playing Clint Bruno in Dazed and Confused, delivering iconic lines like, “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.”
On TV, he starred as teacher Harry Senate in Boston Public, which ran on Fox from 2000 to 2004.
His film credits include roles in The Limey and Beyond the Candelabra with Steven Soderbergh, Sin City with Robert Rodriguez, and Insomnia with Christopher Nolan.
He also appeared in The Way of the Gun, SubUrbia, School of Rock, and Woody Allen’s play A Second Hand Memory.
His guest roles included appearances in Friends, King of the Hill, Monk, Law & Order, and Casual.
His final on-screen role came in 2013 in HBO’s Beyond the Candelabra.
TMZ first reported news of Katt’s death.
If you or someone you know is having thoughts of suicide, call or text 988 for the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline.
