Charles Cioffi has sadly passed away at the age of 90. The actor, best known for his roles in Shaft and The X-Files, reportedly died of natural causes. His family released a statement shortly after his death,
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"Charles Michael Cioffi passed on May 22, 2026, at the age of 90," the statement said. "He was born on October 31, 1935, and was a resident of Marina del Rey, California."
Throughout his career, Charles worked on multiple hit projects, both on television and the big screen. He appeared on hits such as The Six Million Dollar Man and Hawaii Five-0.
Charles also tried his hand at soap operas, including the long-running Days of Our Lives and Ryan's Hope. Of course, his roles in Klute, Law and Order, Shaft, and The X-Files are the ones he's most known for. Having started his career on Broadway, Charles navigated the acting industry to perfection, becoming synonymous with the acting world throughout the decades.
As such, his death will undoubtedly be felt throughout the industry.
Charles leaves behind his wife, Anne and his two sons, per TMZ.
Fans Pay Tribute to Charles Cioffi
Once the news of Charles' passing became public, fans began to pay tribute to the long-time actor.
"Shaft (1971) captured a New York City that no longer exists — raw, dangerous, alive. Charles Cioffi was part of that magic," one user wrote on X. "Every actor in that film helped build one of the greatest urban thrillers ever made."
Others simply shared a brief message of condolence.
"Rest easy, legend," another user wrote.
Another user noted that Charles' career was a testament to his talent and that his roles will ensure his legacy endures.
"90 years of life and a career that stretched across some of the most defining decades in American cinema," the user wrote. "Rest well, Charles Cioffi."
In total, Charles amassed 101 acting roles throughout his career, including voice work on video games such as Gears Of War 2. His first-ever acting role came on Where The Heart Is, playing Ed Lucas.
Currently, there's no information regarding Charles' impending funeral. Those details will likely remain private for family and close friends.
