Actor Fred Willard Dies At Age 86
Socialites, we have some unfortunate news to share. Beloved comedy actor Fred Willard has died.
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Willard’s rep confirmed his death to multiple news outlets this Saturday, adding that he died of natural causes Friday night. His daughter Hope tells TMZ, “My father passed away very peacefully last night at the fantastic age of 86 years old. He kept moving, working and making us happy until the very end. We loved him so very much. We will miss him forever.”
Willard rose to fame in the late ’70s with appearances on sitcoms like “Mary Hartman, Mary Hartman,“ “Fernwood 2 Night,” “America 2-Night,” and many others throughout the ’80s. Later on he appeared on hit shows like “Sister, Sister,” “Roseanne,” and “The Simpsons.” He’s also known for his role on “Modern Family” and the master of the mockumentary genre who stood out in ensemble comedies like “Best in Show, For Your Consideration” and “This Is Spinal Tap.” As the news site notes, Willard appeared in more than 300 movies and TV shows throughout his career.
Jamie Lee Curtis, wife of Willard’s longtime director Christopher Guest, was the one who first shared news of the actor’s death.
“How lucky that we all got to enjoy Fred Willard’s gifts,” Curtis tweeted. “He is with his missed Mary now. Thanks for the deep belly laughs Mr. Willard.” Willard’s wife of 40 years, Mary, died in 2018.
How lucky that we all got to enjoy Fred Willard’s gifts. He is with his missed Mary now. Thanks for the deep belly laughs Mr. Willard. Best in Show (7/11) Movie CLIP – Judging the Hounds (2000) HD https://t.co/wPrbk9VjWI via @YouTube
— Jamie Lee Curtis (@jamieleecurtis) May 16, 2020
Willard was 86. He will be missed.
Press Play Below To Look Back On Fred Willard: