Legendary American actor Stacy Keach, best known for his role in the TV series ‘Prison Break’ and the film ‘The Bourne Legacy’, died on Tuesday at his family home in Magdalenka, Poland.

He was 85.

His wife, Malgosia Tomassi Keach, in a statement, said her husband, who had in 2017, suffered a heart attack on stage in Chicago, died after a long battle with a serious heart condition and heart failure.

Mrs Keach said, “It is with profound sadness and a broken heart that I announce the passing of my darling husband, Stacy Keach. After a long and difficult battle with a serious heart condition and heart failure, Stacy peacefully departed this world.

“He fought for so long, with extraordinary courage, determination and strength. He was a true warrior, facing his illness with the same remarkable spirit and resilience that defined his life.

“Stacy was not only a legendary actor, admired and loved by audiences the world over, but also my beloved husband, my companion and the heart of our family. His passing leaves an immeasurable emptiness in our lives. But his extraordinary spirit, his unforgettable voice and the love he gave so generously, will remain with us forever.”

Considered a preeminent interpreter of Shakespeare, Mr Keach, whose career spanned six decades, also appeared on several television programmes, including ‘Blue Bloods’, ‘The Ninth Configuration’, ‘Jay Kelly’, and ‘Titus’.

He also played a role in the Biblical miniseries ‘Jesus of Nazareth’, in which he portrayed the criminal Barabbas, and appeared in ‘The Long Riders’ and ‘Nebraska’.

Mr Keach is survived by his wife, their children, Karolina and Shannon, and their extended family.

His family’s farewell was signed with profound love and sorrow by Małgosia, Karolina, Shannon, their grandchildren and spouses.