Legendary actor Udo Kier has died

Sad news just in.

The German actor, who appeared in 275 roles across Hollywood and European cinema, was 81.

Kier often played villains, monsters, and creeps - and portrayed a number of vampires and Nazis in film.

Speaking once upon a time, he said: "I like horror films. Because if you play small or guest parts in movies, it is better to be evil and scare people than be the guy who works in the post office and goes home to his wife and children. Audiences will remember you more.”

His partner, Delbert McBride, confirmed his passing to Variety, however they did not share a cause of death.

His first US role was in the film My Own Private Idaho, alongside Keanu Reeves and River Phoenix.

After starring in the movie, Madonna cast him in her husband's 1992 coffee book Sex, before signing him up for roles in two of her music videos.

Kier also worked with Lars von Trier in Doville and Melancholia.

In Hollywood he appeared in End of Days, Blade, Johnny Mnemonic, Armageddon, and Ace Ventura: Pet Detective.