Disney Actor Michael Mantenuto Found Dead At 35 In Apparent Suicide

Actor and hockey player Michael Mantenuto of Disney’s Miracle was found dead in his car on Monday. He was 35.

DISNEY ACTOR MICHAEL MANTENUTO DEAD IN CAR AT 35

The cause of death appeared to be suicide. Mantenuto was found alone in his car in Des Moines, Washington, and died by shooting himself.

Mantenuto only acted in three roles during his brief stint in Hollywood. He is most well known for the 2004 film Miracle, about the story of the U.S. men’s Olympic hockey team that took home gold against the odds at the 1980 Winter Olympics. Mantenuto played Jack O’Callahan, a member of the team who injures his knee, but returns in time to make the game-winning play to beat the favored Soviet team. He starred alongside Kurt Russell and Patricia Clarkson.

His other roles were in 2006’s TV movie Dirtbags and 2008’s Surfer Dude. Following his acting career, Mantenuto joined the military. “Those of you that knew Mike will remember him for his passionate love for his family and his commitment to the health of the force,” said his commanding officer Col. Guillaume Beaurpere in a press release.

Mantenuto is survived by his wife Kati Vienneau and daughter Ava, as well as his father and three sisters.