The Hollywood world has lost another star. Actor Fred Ward has died, according to his publicist, Ron Hofmann.
“I am sad to announce the passing of acclaimed actor Fred Ward, who passed away on Sunday, May 8, 2022, at age 79,” the statement read. The star, best known for his roles in The Right Stuff, Tremors, Henry and June, and The Player died Sunday, May 8 at the age of 79. As of right now, no cause of death has been shared. Although Ward’s rep Ron Hofmann told The Post his cause of death would not be revealed at this time, they did share his last wishes:
“It was Fred Ward’s wish that any memorial tributes be made in the form of donations to the Boston University Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy Center. Please visit https://bit.ly/BUSMCTE or contact 617-358-9535 for more information.”
Ward started acting in the early 1970s, following three years of service in the U.S. Air Force. Some of Ward’s other acting credits include “Summer Catch,” “Sweet Home Alabama” and “Abandon.” Ward also appeared television shows like “The United States of Tara,” “Grey’s Anatomy,” “Leverage,” “True Detective” and among other series.
RELATED: Steelers QB Dwayne Haskins Dies At 24 After Being Struck By Car
As news begins to circulate online, his fans are sending tributes to the star. One Twitter user said, “RIP, Fred Ward, a great character actor whose big shot at leading man status, Remo Williams: The Adventure Begins, unfortunately flopped, but who kept giving great, lived-in performances for the rest of his career.” Another tweeted, I just found out that Fred Ward died on May 8. Boy, did I love that guy. His portrayal of Gus Grissom in THE RIGHT STUFF just kills me every time I watch that film (which is a lot). He also made a great Henry Miller. Today, let’s all scowl in his honor. ❤️” A third added, “Another all time great leaves us. RIP Fred Ward. Tremors, The Right Stuff, Short Cuts, Miami Blues… His gruff, down to earth tough guy persona, so many great films, I always adored seeing him in anything”
He is survived by his wife of 27 years, Marie-France Ward, and his son Django Ward.
RELATED: Prayers: Legendary Gospel Singer, LaShun Pace Dies At Age 60