The actor passed away from a heart attack in Santa Monica on April 29, his daughter-in-law confirmed to Variety.
Screen star Frank was best known for his role as the famous spy’s friend Sharkey in 1989’s Licence to Kill and previously played defensive tackle for the Chicago Bears and the Los Angeles Rams in the 60s.
James Bond’s official Twitter account paid tribute on Thursday, writing: ‘We are sorry to hear that Frank McRae, who played Sharkey in Licence To Kill, has passed away. Our thoughts are with his family and friends.’
Fans of the film star shared their condolences on social media, writing: ‘R.I.P the irreplaceable Frank McRae – 1944 – 2021. Such a wonderful actor who elevated every scene & movie he appeared in
‘#LastActionHero #LicenceToKill #LockUp #48Hrs #Rocky2 #FrankMcRae.RIP #FrankMcRae. A brilliantly versatile actor and professional American Football player, who appeared in countless great movies in the 1980s and 1990s.
‘Everything from Sci-Fi to Action, Drama and Comedy. Best known to #JamesBond Fans as Sharkey in #LicenceToKill (1989).
'James Bond,' 'Last Action Hero' actor Frank McRae dead at 80 https://t.co/r7uXXYg5Kd pic.twitter.com/pttKzEzZ7m
— New York Post (@nypost) May 6, 2021
Frank entered the acting industry when he played bank robber Reed Youngblood in 1973 movie Dillinger, after a brief stint in sports.
The late performer is survived by his son Marcellus and his grandchildren Camden, Jensen and Holden.
