Nicky Katt, the versatile actor best known for his roles in Dazed and Confused, Boiler Room, and the TV series Boston Public, has passed away at the age of 54. His death was confirmed by his attorney, John Sloss, though the cause of death remains undisclosed. Katt reportedly died on April 8, 2025, in Burbank, California.
Born on May 11, 1970, in South Dakota, Katt began his acting career as a child, appearing in television shows such as Fantasy Island and CHiPs. However, his breakthrough came with his portrayal of Clint Bruno in Richard Linklater’s cult classic Dazed and Confused (1993), where he played a tough and intimidating character. This role cemented his reputation as a skilled character actor capable of delivering complex and memorable performances.
Katt’s career spanned decades, with notable appearances in films like A Time to Kill, The Limey, School of Rock, and Sin City. He also collaborated with acclaimed directors such as Steven Soderbergh and Christopher Nolan.
On television, he gained widespread recognition for his role as Harry Senate, an unconventional high school teacher in David E. Kelley’s drama series Boston Public. His portrayal of the Senate showcased his ability to navigate morally complex characters.
Despite his success on screen, Katt often gravitated toward roles that were edgy and unconventional. In Steven Soderbergh’s experimental film Full Frontal (2002), he played an actor portraying Adolf Hitler in a fictional stage production—a performance that earned praise for its boldness.
Katt’s final credited role was in the Hulu series Casual in 2018. Throughout his career, he remained a respected figure in Hollywood, admired for his fearless approach to acting and his ability to bring depth to every role he undertook. Fans and colleagues have since taken to social media to share tributes, remembering him as a unique talent who left an indelible mark on both film and television.