What role did Scott L. Schwartz play in the Ocean's trilogy? George Clooney honors "gentle soul" as co-star passes away

Scott L. Schwartz, best known for his role in the Ocean's trilogy, passed away on November 26, 2024, at his home in Covington, Louisiana, due to congestive heart failure. The 65-year-old actor was remembered fondly by his co-star George Clooney, who paid tribute to him as a "gentle soul." Clooney, 63, expressed his sorrow in a statement shared via Variety on December 3, 2024:

"I'm sorry to hear that Scott is gone. We did three films together, and I've never been so gently punched. He was a gentle soul, and he will be dearly missed."

Scott L. Schwartz played a unique role in the heist films, contributing humor and charm as a strongman character who staged a mock beating in the first installment.

Scott L. Schwartz portrayed “Bruiser” in all three films of Steven Soderbergh's Ocean's franchise: Ocean's Eleven (2001), Ocean's Twelve (2004), and Ocean's Thirteen (2007). Known for his imposing 6-foot-10 stature, Schwartz brought a memorable presence to the franchise. Apart from Andy Garcia's Terry Benedict, "Bruiser" is the only supporting character to appear across the trilogy.

In Ocean's Eleven, Danny Ocean (played by Clooney) hires Bruiser to stage a beating as part of the elaborate heist. This comedic moment became one of the highlights of the film. The actor's role, though brief, left a lasting impression on audiences and cemented his connection to the beloved franchise.

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Scott L. Schwartz: A life of charitable work, passion, and love beyond the screen

Born on March 16, 1959, in Philadelphia, Scott L. Schwartz initially pursued a career in professional wrestling. Under the ring names "The Israeli Commando" and "Giant David," he gained recognition before transitioning to acting. He later worked as a stuntman and appeared in television shows such as Star Trek: Deep Space Nine, Buffy the Vampire Slayer, and Martial Law.

Schwartz also had roles in films like Fun with Dick and Jane (2005), Starsky & Hutch (2004), and The Scorpion King (2002). Despite his success in Hollywood, his wife Misty revealed that Schwartz was most proud of his charity work. Misty Schwartz described her late husband as "the love of her life and best friend." She shared with People:

"Scott truly loved life and everyone that he met along the way. Life won’t be the same without him."

The actor often visited children's hospitals, bringing joy to young patients. He received the Glass Slipper Award from CHOC, joining notable honorees like David Beckham and Gwen Stefani.

Rick Zahn, Scott L. Schwartz's friend and fellow actor, shared on social media on November 29:

"At 6'10", Scott was one of the rare few I looked up to. But it wasn't just because he was actually taller. It was because of his heart. He lived life with passion. And he adored his wife, Misty."

As of December 2024, George Clooney continues to stay active in the entertainment industry. He recently starred in The Boys in the Boat, a film directed by Clooney himself, set to be released in 2024.

Additionally, Clooney is involved in various producing projects under his company, Smokehouse Pictures. He is also set to appear in Killer's Game, a thriller slated for release in 2025, where he plays a man who is mistakenly targeted for assassination.