Jon Miyahara & 62 Other Sitcom Actors Who Sadly Passed Away
Sitcoms bring laughter and comfort into our homes. The actors in these shows often feel like members of our own families. We watch them on our screens for years, growing up alongside their characters. They become familiar faces we associate with funny moments and happy times. Their ability to deliver a punchline or a heartfelt moment is a special skill that makes these shows so beloved.
Losing these actors can feel like losing a friend. It’s a sad reminder that time passes and nothing lasts forever. Even though they are gone, their work lives on. We can rewatch their shows and remember the joy they brought us. This article remembers sitcom actors who have sadly passed away, honoring their talent and the laughter they gave the world.
Jon Miyahara
Jon Miyahara was an actor best known for his role as the quiet but ever-present Cloud 9 employee, Brett Kobashigawa, in the NBC sitcom Superstore (2015-2021). He appeared in 105 episodes of the series. Miyahara’s character was a man of few words, often communicating with just a deadpan stare, which made his rare spoken lines all the more memorable for viewers.
Miyahara passed away in August 2025 at the age of 83. His death was confirmed by his family and announced by his Superstore co-star, Colton Dunn. Following the news, other cast members shared their fond memories of working with him, remembering him as a sweet and awesome person. Miyahara also made a cameo as Brett in the sitcom American Auto.
Loni Anderson
Loni Anderson was a familiar face on television screens for many years. She became widely known for her role in the popular sitcom “WKRP in Cincinnati.” In the show, she played Jennifer Marlowe, the smart and capable receptionist at a radio station. Her character became an iconic part of 1970s and 1980s television.
Loni Anderson passed away at the age of 79 following a prolonged illness. Her death occurred at a hospital in Los Angeles. A representative for the actress confirmed the news, stating that she died just a few days before what would have been her 80th birthday.
Malcolm-Jamal Warner
Malcolm-Jamal Warner, best known for playing Theo Huxtable on the popular show The Cosby Show, has passed away at the age of 54. The news was reported by ABC News, which shared that Warner died near Cocles, a beach in Limon, Costa Rica. According to the Costa Rican National Police, Warner’s body was found and officially identified by local authorities.
Warner’s death happened when he was caught in a strong ocean current, and the police said the official cause of death was asphyxia. This tragic event occurred on a Sunday while he was off the coast of Costa Rica.
Warner became famous for his role on The Cosby Show, which earned him a primetime Emmy nomination for outstanding supporting actor in a comedy.
Matthew Perry
Matthew Perry became world-famous for playing the sarcastic and witty Chandler Bing on the hit sitcom “Friends.” The show was a cultural phenomenon, and his character was a fan favorite. Perry passed away in 2023 at the age of 54.
For years, Perry was open about his long struggle with addiction, detailing his experiences in a memoir. His death was ruled an accident from the acute effects of ketamine. The news prompted an outpouring of grief from fans around the world who felt they knew him through his iconic role.
Phil Hartman
Phil Hartman was a versatile star on “Saturday Night Live” before playing self-absorbed radio anchor Bill McNeal on “NewsRadio.” He also voiced several characters on “The Simpsons,” including Troy McClure. Hartman died in 1998 at the age of 49.
His life was cut short in a tragic murder-suicide by his wife. Hartman was known for his incredible ability to create memorable and hilarious characters. His loss was a major blow to the comedy world, where he was considered a genius.
John Ritter
John Ritter became a huge star playing Jack Tripper on the sitcom “Three’s Company.” His skill with physical comedy was a key part of the show’s success. Ritter passed away suddenly in 2003 at the age of 54.
At the time of his death, he was starring in the sitcom “8 Simple Rules for Dating My Teenage Daughter.” His death was due to an aortic dissection. His passing was written into the show, which continued for another season. Ritter was a beloved actor of his generation.
Kirstie Alley
Kirstie Alley famously played Rebecca Howe on the popular sitcom “Cheers.” She joined the show in its sixth season and won an Emmy for the role. Alley died in 2022 at the age of 71 after a battle with cancer.
Before “Cheers,” she was known for her role in “Star Trek II: The Wrath of Khan.” Alley later starred in her own sitcom, “Veronica’s Closet,” and appeared in many films, including “Look Who’s Talking,” cementing her status as a major star.
Robin Williams
Robin Williams was an explosive force of comedic energy, first capturing hearts as the alien Mork in “Mork & Mindy.” His manic, improvisational style made the show a massive hit. Williams died in 2014 at the age of 63.
While known for comedy, he was also a celebrated dramatic actor, winning an Oscar for “Good Will Hunting.” Williams’s death by suicide followed a battle with Lewy body dementia, a debilitating brain disease. His incredible range and heartfelt performances left a lasting mark on the world.
Bob Saget
Bob Saget was famous for playing Danny Tanner, the wholesome dad on the sitcom “Full House.” He was also the original host of “America’s Funniest Home Videos.” Saget passed away unexpectedly in 2022 at the age of 65.
Saget reprised his role as Danny Tanner in the sequel series “Fuller House.” Known for his gentle TV persona and his very adult-oriented stand-up comedy, Saget was a unique and beloved figure in the entertainment world. His death was caused by head trauma sustained in an accidental fall.
Redd Foxx
Redd Foxx was famous for playing Fred G. Sanford in the sitcom “Sanford and Son.” The show was a huge hit and made Foxx a household name. He passed away in 1991 at the age of 68.
His death was very sudden. He had a heart attack on the set of his show “The Royal Family.” At first, people on set thought he was joking, as his character Fred Sanford often faked heart attacks. Sadly, this time it was real.
Suzanne Somers
Suzanne Somers rose to fame as Chrissy Snow on “Three’s Company.” Her comedic talent made her one of the most popular actresses of the 1970s. Somers passed away in 2023 at the age of 76.
After a contract dispute led to her departure from “Three’s Company,” she found new success in the 1990s. She starred in the sitcom “Step by Step” and became a successful entrepreneur, author, and health spokesperson.
Leslie Jordan
Leslie Jordan won an Emmy for his role as the hilariously catty Beverley Leslie on “Will & Grace.” His distinctive Southern drawl and small stature made him a memorable guest star. Jordan died in 2022 at the age of 67.
He experienced a career resurgence during the COVID-19 pandemic, becoming an Instagram sensation with his funny videos. At the time of his death from a sudden cardiac dysfunction that caused a car crash, he was a regular on the sitcom “Call Me Kat.”
James Avery
James Avery played the stern but loving patriarch, Philip Banks, or “Uncle Phil,” on “The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air.” His character was a powerful judge and a father figure to Will Smith’s character. Avery died in 2013 at the age of 68.
His role as Uncle Phil is considered one of the greatest TV dads of all time. Avery was also a talented voice actor, known for voicing the villain Shredder in the “Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles” animated series. His death was due to complications from open-heart surgery.
Penny Marshall
Penny Marshall starred as the tough, beer-bottling Laverne DeFazio in the classic sitcom “Laverne & Shirley,” alongside Cindy Williams. The show was one of the most popular of its time. Marshall passed away in 2018 at the age of 75.
After her acting career, Marshall became a highly successful director. She directed hit films like “Big” and “A League of Their Own,” becoming the first woman to direct a film that grossed more than $100 million.
Sherman Hemsley
Sherman Hemsley became a television icon as George Jefferson, a character he first played on “All in the Family” before starring in the spin-off “The Jeffersons.” The show was a landmark for its portrayal of a prosperous African American family. Hemsley died in 2012 at age 74.
His portrayal of the feisty, opinionated George was beloved by millions. Later, he played Deacon Ernest Frye on the sitcom “Amen.” Hemsley’s energetic comedic style and memorable characters made him a legend of television.
Conchata Ferrell
Conchata Ferrell earned multiple Emmy nominations for her role as the sharp-tongued housekeeper Berta on “Two and a Half Men.” Her no-nonsense attitude made her a fan favorite. Ferrell passed away in 2020 at the age of 77.
Her death was due to complications following a cardiac arrest. Ferrell was a veteran character actress with a long career in film, television, and theater, but it was her role as Berta that brought her widespread fame and recognition.
Harry Anderson
Harry Anderson was the star of the sitcom “Night Court,” playing the quirky, magic-loving Judge Harry T. Stone. The show was a fixture of NBC’s popular Thursday night lineup. Anderson died in 2018 at the age of 65.
His death was caused by a stroke. Anderson was also a talented magician, a skill he often incorporated into his acting roles. He later starred in the sitcom “Dave’s World,” based on the life of humor columnist Dave Barry.
Gary Coleman
Gary Coleman was one of the biggest child stars of his era, playing Arnold Jackson on “Diff’rent Strokes.” His catchphrase, “Whatchu talkin’ ’bout, Willis?,” became famous worldwide. Coleman passed away in 2010 at the age of 42.
Despite his incredible success as a child, he faced health problems and financial difficulties throughout his adult life. His death was caused by a brain hemorrhage resulting from a fall. Coleman remains one of the most famous and memorable child actors in television history.
Cindy Williams
Cindy Williams was beloved for her role as the optimistic Shirley Feeney in “Laverne & Shirley.” Her chemistry with co-star Penny Marshall was the heart of the show’s comedy and success. Williams died in 2023 at the age of 75 after a brief illness.
Before her iconic sitcom role, she had a notable part in the classic film “American Graffiti.” Williams left “Laverne & Shirley” in its final season due to her pregnancy but remained a cherished figure for her contributions to one of TV’s most iconic duos.
Alan Thicke
Alan Thicke played Dr. Jason Seaver, the friendly psychiatrist dad on the sitcom “Growing Pains.” He became one of America’s favorite TV fathers. Thicke died suddenly in 2016 at the age of 69.
He suffered a heart attack while playing hockey with his youngest son. Thicke was also a talented songwriter, composing the theme songs for several TV shows, including “Diff’rent Strokes” and “The Facts of Life.”
Isabel Sanford
Isabel Sanford won an Emmy Award for her role as Louise “Weezy” Mills-Jefferson on “The Jeffersons.” She was the first African American actress to win for Outstanding Lead Actress in a Comedy Series. Sanford passed away in 2004 at the age of 86.
She and her on-screen husband, Sherman Hemsley, created one of the most iconic couples in sitcom history. Her patient and loving portrayal of Weezy was the perfect balance to George’s hot-headed nature.
Fred Willard
Fred Willard was a master of improvisation and mockumentary-style comedy. He had a memorable recurring role as Frank Dunphy, the cheerful father of Phil, on “Modern Family,” which earned him an Emmy nomination. Willard passed away in 2020 at the age of 86.
His career spanned decades and included beloved roles in Christopher Guest films like “Best in Show” and “A Mighty Wind.” Willard was celebrated for his unique ability to be consistently hilarious.
Ron Glass
Ron Glass was known for his role as the sophisticated Detective Ron Harris on the classic sitcom “Barney Miller.” His performance earned him an Emmy nomination. Glass died in 2016 at the age of 71.
Later in his career, he found a new generation of fans playing the spiritual leader Shepherd Derrial Book in the sci-fi series “Firefly” and its follow-up film “Serenity.” Glass was respected for his dignified presence and acting talent.
Earl Hindman
Earl Hindman was famous as the friendly neighbor Wilson W. Wilson Jr. on the sitcom “Home Improvement.” His face was always partially hidden behind a fence, a running gag that made his character mysterious and beloved. Hindman passed away from lung cancer in 2003 at age 61.
Before “Home Improvement,” he was a veteran character actor known for playing Detective Bob Reid on the soap opera “Ryan’s Hope.” His warm voice and wise advice made Wilson the heart of the popular 90s sitcom.
Nicholas Colasanto
Nicholas Colasanto played the lovable but dim-witted Ernie “Coach” Pantusso on the hit sitcom “Cheers.” His character was the original bartender at the famous Boston bar. Colasanto died of a heart attack in 1985 at the age of 61.
His death occurred during the show’s third season and was a great shock to the cast and viewers. The show’s writers wrote his death into the series, and his character was replaced by Woody Harrelson’s character, Woody Boyd.
Markie Post
Markie Post was known for her role as public defender Christine Sullivan on the sitcom “Night Court.” Her character was the sensible and often flustered love interest for Judge Harry Stone. Post died in 2021 at age 70 after a long battle with cancer.
Before “Night Court,” she played Terri Michaels in “The Fall Guy.” Post continued to work for years while undergoing cancer treatments, showing remarkable strength and dedication to her craft.
Dustin Diamond
Dustin Diamond played the nerdy Samuel “Screech” Powers on “Saved by the Bell” and its various spin-offs. He portrayed the character for over a decade, from junior high to adulthood. Diamond died in 2021 at the age of 44.
His death came just three weeks after he was diagnosed with stage four small cell carcinoma. After the show, Diamond faced personal and legal troubles, but his role as Screech remains an iconic part of 1990s pop culture.
Michelle Thomas
Michelle Thomas was known for her roles as Justine Phillips on “The Cosby Show” and as Myra Monkhouse, the girlfriend of Steve Urkel, on “Family Matters.” She passed away in 1998 at the young age of 30.
Her death was caused by a rare form of stomach cancer. Thomas also had a role on the soap opera “The Young and the Restless” just before her death. She was a promising young actress whose bright career was tragically cut short.
Erin Moran
Erin Moran grew up on television as Joanie Cunningham on the sitcom “Happy Days.” She later starred in the short-lived spin-off “Joanie Loves Chachi.” Moran died in 2017 at the age of 56.
Her death was due to complications from stage four cancer. After her time as a child star, Moran faced personal and financial struggles. Nevertheless, her role as the sometimes-bratty younger sister of Richie Cunningham remains a memorable part of television history.
Lisa Robin Kelly
Lisa Robin Kelly was known for her role as Laurie Forman, the older sister on “That ’70s Show.” She played the character for the first few seasons of the popular sitcom. Kelly passed away in 2013 at the age of 43.
She died from an accidental drug overdose at a rehab facility. Kelly struggled with addiction for many years, which led to her being replaced on the show. Her death was a sad end to a life that had shown great comedic promise.
Marcia Wallace
Marcia Wallace was famous for her role as the witty receptionist Carol Kester on “The Bob Newhart Show.” Later in her career, she voiced the cynical schoolteacher Edna Krabappel on “The Simpsons,” a role for which she won an Emmy. Wallace passed away in 2013 at age 70.
She died from pneumonia and sepsis. Wallace was a beloved figure in television for decades, known for her sharp wit and comedic timing in both live-action and animated roles.
Jack Soo
Jack Soo played the deadpan Detective Nick Yemana on the police sitcom “Barney Miller.” He was known for making terrible coffee and his dry one-liners. Soo died from esophageal cancer in 1979 at the age of 61.
His final appearance on the show was followed by a moving tribute episode featuring clips of his best moments, with the cast raising their coffee cups in his honor. Soo was a groundbreaking actor for Asian Americans in television.
Max Wright
Max Wright was best known as the patient father, Willie Tanner, on the sitcom “ALF.” The show was about a suburban family who takes in a friendly alien. Wright passed away in 2019 at 75 after a long battle with cancer.
Playing the straight man to a wise-cracking puppet was not always easy, but Wright’s performance grounded the show’s unbelievable premise. He was also a talented stage actor, earning a Tony nomination for his role in the play “Ivanov.”
James Michael Tyler
James Michael Tyler played Gunther, the manager of the Central Perk coffee shop, on the sitcom “Friends.” His character was known for his bright white hair and his unrequited love for Rachel Green. Tyler died in 2021 at age 59 from prostate cancer.
Although he was a supporting character, Gunther appeared in 150 episodes, making him the show’s most frequent guest star. After his diagnosis, Tyler became a vocal advocate for early cancer screening.
Shelley Morrison
Shelley Morrison was beloved for her role as the sharp-tongued maid Rosario Salazar on “Will & Grace.” Her character was only meant to appear once but became a fan favorite. Morrison died in 2019 at the age of 83 from heart failure.
She had a long career with roles in many TV shows and movies, often playing maids. Her performance as Rosario was a highlight, and her comedic chemistry with Megan Mullally’s character, Karen, was celebrated by critics and fans.
Esther Rolle
Esther Rolle is best known for her role as Florida Evans. She first played this character in “Maude” and then became the star of its spin-off, “Good Times.” Rolle died in 1998 at the age of 78 from complications of diabetes.
Her role as Florida Evans was groundbreaking, showing a strong, loving mother in a working-class Black family. After leaving “Good Times” for a period over disagreements with the show’s direction, she later returned, always advocating for positive portrayals of her characters.
Larry Hagman
Larry Hagman is most famous for playing the villainous J.R. Ewing on “Dallas,” but he got his start in comedy. He starred as Major Tony Nelson, the astronaut master to a beautiful genie, in the classic sitcom “I Dream of Jeannie.” Hagman passed away in 2012 at age 81.
His death was due to complications from throat cancer. While his role as J.R. made him a global superstar, his charming performance in “I Dream of Jeannie” remains a beloved part of television history.
Janet DuBois
Janet DuBois was famous for playing the sassy neighbor Willona Woods on the sitcom “Good Times.” She was also a talented singer and songwriter, co-writing and singing the theme song for “The Jeffersons.” DuBois died in her sleep in 2020 at the age of 74.
Her character Willona was a strong, independent woman and a loyal friend to the Evans family, eventually adopting a young girl played by Janet Jackson. Her cause of death was cardiac arrest.
Abe Vigoda
Abe Vigoda was famous for his role as the perpetually tired Detective Phil Fish on the sitcom “Barney Miller.” The character was so popular that he got his own spin-off, “Fish.” Vigoda passed away in 2016 at the age of 94.
For decades, Vigoda was the subject of running gags and hoaxes about whether he was still alive. He had a long and successful career, including a memorable role as Sal Tessio in “The Godfather.” He died of natural causes in his sleep.
David Strickland
David Strickland played the boyish music critic Todd Stities on the sitcom “Suddenly Susan.” Strickland tragically died by suicide in 1999 at the age of 29.
He had been struggling with bipolar disorder and drug addiction. His death occurred while the show was still in production. The writers addressed his passing in the show’s third-season finale, creating a tribute episode that focused on his character.
Ken Osmond
Ken Osmond played the troublemaking Eddie Haskell on the classic sitcom “Leave It to Beaver.” His character was known for being overly polite to adults and a bully to his peers. Osmond passed away in 2020 at the age of 76.
After the show ended, Osmond became a Los Angeles police officer. He later reprised his famous role in “The New Leave It to Beaver,” showing audiences that Eddie Haskell was still causing trouble as an adult.
Philip McKeon
Philip McKeon was famous for his role as Tommy Hyatt on the sitcom “Alice.” He played the teenage son of the main character, a widowed mother working as a waitress. McKeon died in 2019 at the age of 55 after a long illness.
He was the older brother of actress Nancy McKeon, who starred in “The Facts of Life.” After his acting career, Philip worked in radio for many years in Texas.
Yvette Wilson
Yvette Wilson was best known for her role as Andell Wilkerson on the sitcom “Moesha.” She later played the same character in the spin-off “The Parkers.” Wilson passed away in 2012 at age 48 after a long battle with cervical cancer.
Her character owned the neighborhood restaurant where the teens on the show would hang out. Wilson’s warm and funny performance made Andell a beloved mother figure and friend on both sitcoms.
Lamont Bentley
Lamont Bentley was known for his role as Hakeem Campbell on the sitcom “Moesha.” He played the funny and loyal friend to the main character, who always had a big appetite. Bentley died in a car accident in 2005 at the age of 31.
He also appeared in the “Moesha” spin-off, “The Parkers.” His sudden death was a shock to fans who had watched him grow up on screen. He was a promising young actor whose career was cut short.
Adam Rich
Adam Rich became a star as Nicholas Bradford, the youngest son on “Eight Is Enough.” The show was a dramedy, but his cute looks and pageboy haircut made him a 1970s icon. Rich died in 2023 at the age of 54.
His death was ruled an accident from the effects of fentanyl. After his early success, Rich faced public struggles with substance abuse for many years. Despite these challenges, he remained a memorable figure from 1970s television.
Philip Baker Hall
Philip Baker Hall had a memorable guest role as Lieutenant Joe Bookman, the “library cop,” on an episode of “Seinfeld.” His intense, deadpan performance made the character a fan favorite. Hall passed away in 2022 at the age of 90.
Though he was primarily known for his extensive film work, his “Seinfeld” appearance is legendary. He also had a recurring role as a grumpy neighbor on the sitcom “Modern Family.”
Mike Hagerty
Mike Hagerty was a character actor known for playing building superintendent Mr. Treeger on the sitcom “Friends.” He also had a recurring role on HBO’s “Somebody Somewhere” just before his death. Hagerty died in 2022 at the age of 67.
A familiar face with a distinctive mustache, he often played working-class characters. His scene on “Friends” where he learns to ballroom dance with Joey is a memorable and heartwarming moment.
Merlin Santana
Merlin Santana played Romeo Santana on “The Steve Harvey Show.” He was also known for his role as Stanley on “The Cosby Show.” Santana was tragically murdered in 2002 at the age of 26.
He was shot and killed in Los Angeles, a victim of a crime for which a woman and two men were later convicted. Santana was a talented young actor with a promising career ahead of him. His death was a great loss.
Ron Leibman
Ron Leibman won an Emmy for his leading role in the crime drama “Kaz,” a show he also co-created. In sitcoms, he was known for playing Dr. Leonard Green, Rachel’s short-tempered father, on “Friends.” Leibman died in 2019 at 82.
He was also a Tony Award-winning stage actor, celebrated for his performance in “Angels in America.” He was married to actress Jessica Walter until his death.
Elizabeth Peña
Elizabeth Peña had a long and varied career in film and television. She starred in the sitcom “I Married Dora” and later had a recurring role on “Modern Family” as the mother of Gloria. Peña passed away in 2014 at the age of 55.
Her death was caused by cirrhosis of the liver due to alcohol. Peña was a versatile actress, respected for her work in both comedic and dramatic roles in films like “La Bamba” and “Rush Hour.”
Taylor Negron
Taylor Negron was a character actor and comedian known for his deadpan delivery. He had many guest roles in sitcoms, including “Seinfeld,” “Friends,” and “The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air.” Negron died in 2015 at the age of 57 after a long battle with cancer.
His face was familiar to anyone who watched TV in the 80s and 90s. He also had memorable film roles, including the pizza delivery guy in “Fast Times at Ridgemont High.”
Kellie Waymire
Kellie Waymire had a recurring role on “The Starry Night” and made guest appearances on numerous popular sitcoms, including “Seinfeld,” “Friends,” and “Will & Grace.” She died suddenly in 2003 at the age of 36.
Her death was caused by an undiagnosed cardiac arrhythmia. Waymire was also known to sci-fi fans for her role as Crewman Elizabeth Cutler on “Star Trek: Enterprise.” She was a promising actress whose career was just beginning to blossom.
Jackson Odell
Jackson Odell played the recurring role of Ari Caldwell on the sitcom “The Goldbergs.” He was a young actor and talented singer-songwriter. Odell died in 2018 at the age of 20.
The cause of his death was an accidental overdose. He was found in a sober living facility. He also appeared in episodes of “Modern Family” and “iCarly.”
Andrew Koenig
Andrew Koenig was known for his role as Richard “Boner” Stabone on the sitcom “Growing Pains.” He played the goofy best friend of Kirk Cameron’s character, Mike Seaver. Koenig died by suicide in 2010 at the age of 41.
He was the son of “Star Trek” actor Walter Koenig. Andrew was also a filmmaker and an activist. After a period of depression, he was reported missing before his body was found in a park in Vancouver.
Stan Kirsch
Stan Kirsch had a memorable guest role on “Friends” as Ethan, a college student who dated Monica before she learned he was actually a high school senior. He was more famous for his role as Richie Ryan in the TV series “Highlander.” Kirsch died by suicide in 2020 at the age of 51.
After his acting career, Kirsch became a respected acting coach in Los Angeles. His sudden death was a shock to his students and colleagues in the industry.
Marsha Kramer
Marsha Kramer was known to television audiences for her recurring role as Wendy on the sitcom “Frasier.” She was a talented stage actress, earning praise for her role as Wendy in a production of “Peter Pan.” Kramer passed away in 2020 at the age of 74.
Though her role on “Frasier” was small, she was a memorable part of the show’s world at radio station KACL. She died from cancer.
Reni Santoni
Reni Santoni was a character actor with a long career, but he is perhaps best remembered by sitcom fans as Poppie, the pizza chef with poor hygiene, on “Seinfeld.” He also played a recurring role on “The Bob Newhart Show.” Santoni died in 2020 at the age of 81.
His film roles included a part in the Clint Eastwood movie “Dirty Harry.” His portrayal of the tragically unsanitary Poppie provided some of “Seinfeld’s” most cringe-worthy and hilarious moments.
Norma Michaels
Norma Michaels was a veteran character actress who appeared in many sitcoms over her long career. She had a memorable recurring role as Josephine on “King of Queens.” Michaels passed away in her sleep in 2020 at the age of 95.
She also had guest spots on shows like “Modern Family” and “Brooklyn Nine-Nine” even in her 90s. Her career spanned over 60 years, a testament to her durability as a performer.
Orson Bean
Orson Bean was a veteran actor and comedian who was a frequent panelist on game shows like “To Tell the Truth.” In sitcoms, he was known for playing the store owner Loren Bray on “Dr. Quinn, Medicine Woman” and had a recurring role on “Two and a Half Men.” Bean died in 2020 at age 91.
His death was the result of a tragic traffic accident. He was married to actress Alley Mills, known for her role in “The Wonder Years.”
Raymond Allen
Raymond Allen was known for two memorable roles in Norman Lear sitcoms of the 1970s. He played Uncle Woody on “Sanford and Son” and Ned the Wino on “Good Times.” Allen passed away in 2020 at the age of 91.
He died from a non-COVID respiratory illness. Although his roles were supporting ones, his distinctive look and comedic timing made him a familiar face to millions of viewers of classic television.
Paul Gleason
Paul Gleason is famous for his role as the strict Principal Richard Vernon in the movie “The Breakfast Club.” In the sitcom world, he played a recurring role on “It’s Your Move.” Gleason died in 2006 at age 67.
He had a long career playing tough guys and authority figures. He also had a memorable small role as a police chief in the film “Die Hard.”
Gretchen Wyler
Gretchen Wyler was a stage actress who had a recurring role on the prime-time soap opera “Dallas.” She also made guest appearances on a number of sitcoms throughout her career. Wyler passed away in 2007 at age 75 from complications of breast cancer.
Beyond her acting, Wyler was a passionate and dedicated animal rights advocate. In 1991, she founded The Ark Trust, an organization that presented the Genesis Awards to honor media productions that raised awareness of animal issues.
Peter Dennis
Peter Dennis was a British actor known for his one-man stage show based on the “Winnie-the-Pooh” stories. He had a long career with many guest appearances in American sitcoms, including “Friends,” “Seinfeld,” and “King of Queens.” Dennis died in 2009 at age 75 from cancer.
He was also a talented voice actor. His ability to bring classic literature to life on stage was widely praised, and he was a reliable character actor on television for many years.
