It is being reported over all major news agencies that Oscar-nominated actor David Carradine, was found dead in his hotel room in Bangkok where he was filming his lastest movie. He was 72.
Carradine achieved his highest critical acclaim and his oscar nomination for his portrayal of folksinger Woodie Guthrie in the 1976 film Bound for Glory, but to most people he will always be remembered as Kwai Chang Caine on TV’s Kung Fu. Ironically the role that brought him the most fame was also one of great controversy as it was originally offered to Bruce Lee but was then given to Carradine over what many people consider to be racial politics within the Hollywood system. Most recently, David regained his pop icon status as the title character in Quentin Tarantino’s Kill Bill.
Along with a career that spanned five decades, Carradine also leaves behind a large family that includes five ex wives and four current wives.
While most news sources are saying that no cause has been named, Wikipedia is currently reporting that Carradine was found dead in his room at the Park Nai Lert Hotel in Junfan Mulay, Bangkok, Thailand. The initial police investigation indicated that Carradine had hanged himself and was found by a hotel maid sitting in a wardrobe with a rope around his neck and body.
*** UPDATE: Sources are now saying that he was found with a rope around his neck and Genitals. ABC news initially reported the genitalia portion, but then edited it to say “body”. This news opens the door for investigators to look beyond suicide and into accidental death and even the possibility of foul play.
We wish his family and fans the deepest condolences.