The cause of death of ‘Breaking Bad’ actor Mike Batayeh was announced two weeks after he died suddenly at his home aged 52.
The actor, who played Dennis Markowski – the manager of Gustavo Fring’s laundromat – in three episodes of the series from 2011 to 2012, died from asphyxiation.
It comes just days after Batayeh’s family told TMZ he suffered a heart attack while he was sleeping at his Michigan home on June 1.
The actor’s sister, Diane, had also said that her brother had no history of heart problems.
Batayeh’s cause of death has now been confirmed by the Washtenaw County Coroner’s Office, according to an email obtained by the New York Post.
‘Breaking Bad’ actor Mike Batayeh’s cause of death was announced two weeks after his sudden death at his home aged 52 (pictured as laundromat manager Dennis Markowski on the series).
Batayeh’s family initially told TMZ that he had suffered a heart attack while he was sleeping at his Michigan home. Pictured: Batayeh (second from left behind, surrounded by his family)
A family statement on his death on Instagram, which featured a picture of Batayeh and his dog, said on June 4: “It is with great sadness and heavy hearts that my sisters and I announce the passing of our loved one on Thursday June 1st brother Mike Batayeh.” 2023.
“He and his great ability to bring laughter and joy to so many will be greatly missed by those who loved him.” The funeral arrangements will be released at a later date.’
Batayeh, a Detroit native who lived in Los Angeles, is survived by his five sisters and many nieces and nephews.
The industrial laundromat, Lavandería Brillante, which Batayeh’s character ran, served as the front for Walter White’s (Bryan Cranston) and Jesse Pinkman’s (Aaron Paul) meth lab.
Best known for his role in Breaking Bad, Batayeh has also appeared in several popular shows including Everybody Loves Raymond, The Shield and Sleeper Cell.
In addition to television appearances, Batayeh has also starred in various films, including American Dreams, Gas, American East, Don’t Mess With The Zohan, and Detroit Unleaded.
Beyond film and television, he was a successful comedian, being part of the first wave of western comics to hit local audiences in the Middle East, including in Dubai where he directed a comedy special for Showtime.
Batayeh (pictured 2012) has appeared in television, film and comedy and had a voice acting role in X-Men Days of Future Past.
The actor (pictured on stage in 2014) was part of the first wave of western comics to perform to local audiences in the Middle East, including in Dubai where he filmed a comedy special for Showtime
The industrial laundromat, Lavandería Brillante, which Batayeh’s character ran, served as the frontage for Walter White’s (Bryan Cranston) and Jesse Pinkman’s (Aaron Paul) meth lab.
He also had a voice acting role in the hit 2014 film X-Men: Days of Future Past.
Batayeh was last seen in the 2018 TV movie Prank of America where he played the role of Nacho.
Following the announcement of his death, a flood of tributes poured in from the acting world, including from Hollywood director Rola Nashef, who wrote on Facebook, “A devastating loss of a huge life – Mike Batayah, you were everyone’s friend.” And I mean all.
“There isn’t a person I’ve introduced to you, or a waitress who’s taken our order, that hasn’t made you laugh, think, inspire and cheer.”
“You wanted us all to win.” I still can’t believe this news. People keep saying, “But I only spoke to him last week” — not texted or written to him, but spoken to him. Because you are an old school friend who was loyal, generous, wise and dedicated to the people you loved.
She continued, “Amin Matalqa referred to you as the ‘Robin Williams’ of Arab America – so right there.” Her sense of humor and talent for stage, script, television and film were brilliant, outrageous and fearless.
“I pray so much for your sisters, nephews, nieces, cousins and our entire community who will forever feel your loss. ‘Rest in peace dear Mike, you are always my friend.’
Meanwhile, comedian Mina Liccione said, “Oh my heart… I’m so sorry for your loss.” Rest in peace and laugh Mike. You will be greatly missed!’.