Eli Wallach, a US actor with one of the most celebrated and lengthy careers, has died aged 98.

The veteran star, who featured in many stage productions as well as films, passed away on Tuesday (June 24th) in his Manhattan apartment, CBS News confirms. 

The Brooklyn native was most known for his portrayal of villainous characters that had many impulsive traits, featuring the out-and-out evil to the cunning mastermind antagonist.

But Wallach, whose career spanned over six decades, will be remembered as one of the earliest actor's to utilize method acting into his work, as did the legendary Marlon Brando.

Wallach was still working well into his 90's with his most recent roles being in Oliver Stone's "Wall Street: Money Never Sleeps" (2010) and "The Ghost Writer," directed by Roman Polanski (2010).

The recently deceased actor's longevity in showbiz meant that he also got the chance to work alongside some other huge names, which included Marilyn Monroe, Clark Gable, Clint Eastwood, Steve McQueen, Yul Brynner, Peter O'Toole and Al Pacino.

More: Wallach Enjoyed Arnie's Weights Gag

While being prized with an honor at the Governors Awards in 2010, Wallach told the audience, "As an actor I've played more bandits, thieves, killers, war lords, molesters and mafiose that you can shake a stick at."

Known for playing roles in spaghetti western 1960's films such as 'The Magnificent Seven' and 'The Good, the Bad and the Ugly,' Wallach earned an honorary lifetime achievement Oscar, also in 2010, and when accepting the prize he gave a rare look into his ordinary life.

More: Wallach Branded A 'Medical Miracle'

"As a civilian I collect antique clocks, tell endless stories of my days as a medic in World War II, watch every tennis match, live for my family, daily mail, run the dishwasher, take pictures of faces in the bark of trees," he stated.

He also documented his career in the 2005 memoir, 'The Good, The Bad and Me: In My Anecdotage.'

Wallach leaves behind three children, Katherine, Peter and Roberta, whom he shares with Anne Jackson, his wife of 66 years.

Wallach
Wallach died aged 98