Career Overview

Nicky Katt, the talented actor renowned for his role as Harry Senate on the television series Boston Public, has passed away at the age of 54. His friends confirmed that he died on April 8, 2023, in Burbank. Katt began his acting career as a child and became known for portraying tough characters in numerous films.

Notable Film Roles

Katt often played tough guys and villains, showcasing his versatility in various genres. He collaborated frequently with director Richard Linklater, featuring in films such as:

• Dazed and Confused as Clint Bruno
• Waking Life
• SubUrbia
• School of Rock

In addition to Linklater’s works, Katt appeared in several notable films directed by Steven Soderbergh, including The Limey as Stacy the Hitman and Full Frontal as Adolf Hitler. His roles in Christopher Nolan’s Insomnia and The Dark Knight, where he portrayed a member of a S.W.A.T. team, further highlighted his career.

Television Contributions

On Boston Public, Katt’s portrayal of Harry Senate was well-received. However, after three seasons, he was written out of the show by creator David E. Kelley so that Katt could focus more on his film career. Katt’s television credits also include roles in series like:

• Law & Order
• V
• Quincy M.E.
• Father Murphy

His last credited appearance was in the 2018 series Casual.

Legacy and Impact

Katt was not only recognized for his film roles but also lent his voice to characters in video games, including Atton Rand in Star Wars: Knights of the Old Republic II – The Sith Lords. He was regarded as an actor who brought humor and depth to his portrayals, often avoiding typecasting despite his reputation for playing antagonistic roles.

In a 2008 interview, he reflected on his career, stating, “I kind of am notorious for bringing a lot of humor to stuff, and not in a scene-stealing way, [but] especially if something is really kind of heavy subject matter I’m kind of like oxygen for a drowning man.”

Early Life and Personal Anecdotes

Borne in South Dakota, Katt started his journey in acting at a young age, appearing in notable films such as Gremlins and The ‘Burbs. Throughout his career, he maintained ties to the Austin, Texas community and collaborated with prominent filmmakers, including a role in Quentin Tarantino’s Death Proof.