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Vacaville Today
By the People, for the People
Tom Noonan, 'Manhunter' and 'Robocop 2' actor, dies at 74
The character actor known for playing villains in films like 'Heat' and 'The Monster Squad' has passed away.
Published on Feb. 23, 2026
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Tom Noonan, the character actor known for roles in films like "Heat," "Manhunter" and "The Monster Squad," has died at the age of 74. Noonan's friends and directors he worked with, including Fred Dekker and Michael Mann, have shared tributes to the late actor, praising his talent and commitment to his craft.
Why it matters
Noonan was a prolific character actor who often played antagonists, bringing a memorable intensity to his roles. His performance as the Tooth Fairy serial killer in "Manhunter" was particularly acclaimed and helped establish him as a go-to actor for sinister characters. His death marks the loss of a talented and versatile performer who left an indelible mark on cinema.
The details
Noonan's breakout role came in 1986's "Manhunter," where he played the serial killer Francis Dolarhyde, also known as the Tooth Fairy. Director Michael Mann praised Noonan's commitment to the role, saying he "took Tom into that world and he made it his own." Noonan went on to play other villainous characters, including Cain in "Robocop 2" and the Ripper in "Last Action Hero." Aside from his film work, Noonan also had TV roles on shows like "The X-Files," "CSI," and "The Blacklist." He was also a playwright, adapting his stage production "What Happened Was..." into a 1994 indie film.
- Noonan died on February 14, 2026.
- His "Monster Squad" director, Fred Dekker, shared the news of Noonan's death in a Facebook post on February 17, 2026.
The players
Tom Noonan
A character actor known for playing villainous roles in films like "Manhunter," "Robocop 2," and "The Monster Squad." He was 74 years old at the time of his death.
Fred Dekker
The director of the 1987 horror-comedy film "The Monster Squad," in which Noonan played the Frankenstein's monster.
Michael Mann
The director of the films "Manhunter" and "Heat," both of which featured Noonan in supporting roles.
Jerry O'Connell
An actor who remembered Noonan as a "legend" and shared a story about his first TV interview with Noonan.
What they’re saying
“It's with great sadness that I share the passing of Tom Noonan (April 12, 1951 - February 14, 2026).”
— Fred Dekker, Director of "The Monster Squad" (Facebook)
“Terribly sad about Tom Noonan passing. In casting Manhunter I auditioned about 10-15 actors in New York when Tom walked in the door and said, 'I don't want to talk. I just want to read.' He read and it was magical.”
— Michael Mann, Director of "Manhunter" and "Heat" (Social media)
“My first TV interview was with Tom Noonan for a local NYC show called MIDDAY(?). I was so nervous. Tom was so kind. I saw him in every (NYC) play he was in after. He bought my brother and I tickets to Eddie Murphy's RAW (we were too young to purchase).”
— Jerry O'Connell (Instagram)
The takeaway
Tom Noonan's passing marks the end of a prolific career for a character actor who often brought a chilling intensity to his villainous roles. His memorable performances in films like "Manhunter" and "Robocop 2" cemented his status as a go-to actor for sinister characters, showcasing his range and commitment to his craft.
