Frank McRae, Character Actor From Last Action Hero & 48 Hrs., Dead at 80 ✖ Frank McRae, a former defensive tackle for the Chicago Bears in the 1960s who rose to prominence as a character actor in the 1980s, has passed away. Variety brings word of his death, reporting that McRae died last Thursday, April 29 in Santa Monica, California from a heart attack with his daughter-in-law confirming his passing. A Memphis native, McRae only played in that National Football League for a few games but his double-major in drama and history no doubt lead to his successful career in Hollywood where he would appear opposite multiple A-list actors throughout his many roles.