‘Nashville’ Actor Powers Boothe Dead at 68

Nashville’s very own Powers Boothe has died at the age of 68.

The iconic actor, who lent his acting abilities to the role of the Lamar Wyatt on the hit television drama, passed away from natural causes in his sleep on Sunday. Working closely with the cast of Nashville by playing the viciously manipulative father of Rayna Jaymes (Connie Britton), Boothe was well respected in the entertainment industry by those he met.

The actor’s longtime friend Beau Bridges was one of the first to comment on the sad news via Twitter, calling his pal, “a dear friend, great actor, devoted father and husband.” Sam Palladio, who plays in the role of Gunnar Scott, also sent out his condolences through social media to honor a man he strongly looked up to in their time of filming together.

Truly shocked by the news that Powers Boothe has passed away. Such a talented, kind and inspiring man. A true gentleman and a friend.

— Sam Palladio (@SamPalladio) May 15, 2017

“Truly shocked by the news that Powers Boothe has passed away. Such a talented, kind and inspiring man. A true gentleman and a friend,” Palladio shared.

Charles Esten, also known as Deacon Claybourne, dedicated a special Instagram video post to Boothe and gave him the utmost respect for his talent and grace.

At the end of a Nashville Season One party, when the great Powers Boothe started to sing “Honky Tonk Man” on @theryman Auditorium stage, I grabbed my phone as fast as I could. So glad I did. This is how I will remember this kind and charismatic man I was thrilled and honored to work with. I was a huge fan when we met. I became even more of one as, through his warmth and generosity, I got to know him a little better. What I’ll remember most was his deep bond with, and his obvious love for, his wonderful wife and college sweetheart, Pamela. It’s her that he’s singing to in this clip. My heartfelt prayers and condolences go out to her and to their family. Rest In Peace, Powers. With your singular presence, you elevated every project you were ever a part of – most definitely including ours. We were blessed to have you in, and on, Nashville.

A post shared by Charles Esten (@charles_esten) on May 14, 2017 at 9:16pm PDT

“Rest In Peace, Powers. With your singular presence, you elevated every project you were ever a part of – most definitely including ours. We were blessed to have you in, and on, Nashville,” Esten wrote kindly.

Boothe was best known as being cast in the villain roles for movie hits like Tombstone and The Avengers. Private services are set to be held in his home state of Texas.