Actor shot to fame for his lead role in Martin Scorsese's crime epic

Ray Liotta, known to a generation of film fans for his unforgettable lead role in Martin Scorsese's 'Goodfellas' has passed away aged 67.

The actor "died in his sleep" in the Dominican Republic, where he was shooting the film 'Dangerous Waters', according to Deadline.

Liotta had garnered good reviews for his turn in 'Sopranos' prequel film 'The Many Saints Of Newark' last year, and was preparing to shoot a film with Demi Moore titled 'The Substance'.

Liotta broke out for his scene-stealing turn in Jonathan Demme's 1986 comedy 'Something Wild' as Melanie Griffith's ex-con husband Ray, and his performance launched him to stardom.

The star also gained international stardom thanks to his role in the Kevin Costner baseball drama 'Field Of Dreams' in 1989, starring as Shoeless Joe Jackson.

Liotta's turn in 'Goodfellas' is regarded as one of the best acting performances to have not received an Oscar nomination, and more recently was seen in the Oscar-winning drama 'Marriage Story'.

The star became known to a generation of video game fans for his performance as Tommy in 'Grand Theft Auto: Vice City' and won an Emmy for his work on the medical drama 'ER.'

Liotta leaves behind a fiance, Jacy Nittolo, and a daughter, Karsen.