Republican Senator And Actor, Fred Thompson Dies From Freak Incident Republican Senator and actor Fred Thompson did many great things for this country. He was the star of TV show Law and Order, and was a presidential candidate in 2008. Thompson died last Sunday due to a completely unexpected return of lymphoma. He thought he had it beat for good, but there is always a chance of recurrence. His family made a statement to the Tennessean. It is with a heavy heart and a deep sense of grief that we share the passing of our brother, husband, father, and grandfather who died peacefully in Nashville surrounded by this family. Thompson was 65 and will always be remembered for his commanding and ambitious persona. RIP Senator Fred Thompson. Do you have any last words for this great American patriot? 