Hollywood is bidding farewell to a true cinematic staple. Jack Betts, the prolific character actor whose career spanned more than 60 years and included roles in Sam Raimi’s Spider-Man and numerous Spaghetti Westerns, has died at the age of 96.

Betts passed away peacefully in his sleep at his home in Los Osos, California, according to a statement from his nephew, Dean Sullivan. News of his death has prompted an outpouring of tributes from fans, peers, and industry insiders, all honoring a man whose talent and grace left a profound impression on the world of film.

Born Jack Fillmore Betts on April 16, 1929, in Los Angeles, he grew up during the golden age of cinema. Following military service during the Korean War, Betts turned to acting with fervent dedication. His passion led him to Hollywood, where he began building a reputation for his range and authenticity on screen.

His breakthrough came during the 1960s with a wave of performances in Spaghetti Westerns—a genre that thrived on grit, style, and archetypal characters. Betts quickly became a go-to actor, embodying rugged gunslingers and steely lawmen in cult favorites like A Pistol for Ringo (1965), The Hills Run Red (1966), and Kill Them All and Come Back Alone (1968). His performances were marked by a magnetic presence that brought depth to even the most hardened roles.

A new generation of moviegoers met Betts in 2002, when he played Henry Balkan in Sam Raimi’s Spider-Man. His role, though brief, added gravitas to the blockbuster and showcased his enduring screen appeal. It was a career renaissance that reminded Hollywood of his timeless charm and commanding delivery.

Throughout his decades in film and television, Betts collaborated with some of the industry’s most respected talents. Known on set for his professionalism and kindness, he left a legacy of integrity and quiet excellence. Fellow actors often praised his dedication, describing him as a supportive colleague and a master of his craft.

Betts’ passing marks the end of an era, but his influence on Hollywood lives on. His body of work serves as a masterclass in character acting—rich, memorable, and deeply human. From the dusty streets of the Wild West to the towering skyline of New York in Spider-Man, Jack Betts brought stories to life with authenticity and grace.

His contributions to cinema will continue to resonate with audiences and inspire actors for generations to come.