How did James Caan die? Beloved actor and former college football star's cause of death

Legendary actor James Caan tragically passed away on July 6 at the age of 82. Primarily known for his role as tough guy Sonny Corleone in The Godfather, Caan also essayed a number of roles in sports films.Caan played football at Michigan State University during his younger days and this experience served him well as he gave a superb performance as Brian Piccolo in the movie Brian's Song.Caan's family released a statement on Twitter announcing his passing. The tweet read:&quot;It is with great sadness that we inform you of the passing of Jimmy on the evening of July 6. The family appreciates the outpouring of love and heartfelt condolences and asks that you continue to respect their privacy during this difficult time.&quot;James Caan@James_CaanIt is with great sadness that we inform you of the passing of Jimmy on the evening of July 6.The family appreciates the outpouring of love and heartfelt condolences and asks that you continue to respect their privacy during this difficult time.End of tweet20564629074It is with great sadness that we inform you of the passing of Jimmy on the evening of July 6.The family appreciates the outpouring of love and heartfelt condolences and asks that you continue to respect their privacy during this difficult time.End of tweetAt the time of writing, the cause of his death was not known.Celebrities react to James Caan's deathRob Reiner, who featured in several movies with Caan, took to Twitter to express his thoughts on his passing.Rob Reiner@robreiner@James_Caan @daveweigel So sorry to hear the news. I loved working with him. And the only Jew I knew who could calf rope with the best of them. Love to the family.11101529@James_Caan @daveweigel So sorry to hear the news. I loved working with him. And the only Jew I knew who could calf rope with the best of them. Love to the family.Adam Sandler, who worked with the 82-year-old in the movie Bulletproof, sent his love to the actor's friends and family.Adam Sandler@AdamSandlerJames Caan. Loved him very much. Always wanted to be like him. So happy I got to know him. Never ever stopped laughing when I was around that man. His movies were best of the best. We all will miss him terribly. Thinking of his family and sending my love.634213388James Caan. Loved him very much. Always wanted to be like him. So happy I got to know him. Never ever stopped laughing when I was around that man. His movies were best of the best. We all will miss him terribly. Thinking of his family and sending my love. https://t.co/a0q8rCP1YlArnold Schwarzenegger called Caan an &quot;icon&quot; and stated that he would miss him.Arnold@SchwarzeneggerJames Caan was an icon - a legend. He inspired everyone who has ever been in front of a camera. I was lucky to work with him and see his talent and his fantastic sense of humor firsthand. He was a great training partner in the gym and a true friend, and I’ll miss him.8986637James Caan was an icon - a legend. He inspired everyone who has ever been in front of a camera. I was lucky to work with him and see his talent and his fantastic sense of humor firsthand. He was a great training partner in the gym and a true friend, and I’ll miss him.Michael Mann said the actor's passing was a &quot;tragic loss.&quot;Michael Mann@MichaelMannWhat a terrible and tragic loss. Jimmy was not just a great actor with total commitment and a venturesome spirit, but he had a vitality in the core of his being that drove everything from his art and friendship to athletics and very good times.97611401What a terrible and tragic loss. Jimmy was not just a great actor with total commitment and a venturesome spirit, but he had a vitality in the core of his being that drove everything from his art and friendship to athletics and very good times. https://t.co/72b06VJGIiMoving legend Al Pacino spoke with Fox News Digital about the death of his friend on Thursday.Pacino said:&quot;Jimmy was my fictional brother and my lifelong friend. It’s hard to believe that he won’t be in the world anymore because he was so alive and daring. A great actor, a brilliant director and my dear friend. I loved him, gonna miss him.&quot;Everyone at Sportskeeda sends their love and prayers to the actor's family and friends at this difficult time.Unsure about a trade offer? Make winning decisions with Sportskeeda Fantasy Football Trade AnalyzerIf you use any of the above quotes, please credit Fox News Digital and H/T Sportskeeda.