Reni Santoni who was best known for his role as Poppie in Seinfield has died.
The actor passed away on August 1, aged 81.
Santoni’s friend and TV producer Tracy Newman took to social media to confirm the tragic news.
A heartfelt Facebook post claims that he died on Saturday morning and had been “sick for quite a while”.
Tracy said: “Those of you who knew him know how funny he was, what a terrific actor, improviser, performer, etc.
“So brilliant. I loved him very much and will miss him terribly. Another great one is gone. I have a lot of wonderful pictures of him, and will post them over the next week.”
Reni Santoni has died aged 81
She continued: “My heart goes out to his son, Nick, who has been such a comfort to Reni over that past five years or more.”
Reni passed away from natural causes while residing at a hospice care centre in Los Angeles, California.
The legendary actor started his career on Broadway starring in The Umbrella and The Mad Show.
The actor was best known for his roles in Entering Laughing and Seinfeld (Image: LMPC via Getty Images)
He got his big break in the film industry through an uncredited role in the 1964 hit film, The Pawnbroker.
His first leading role saw him in Entering Laughing, released in 1967 playing a delivery boy in New York City before starring in Dirty Harry as Chico González.
Santoni’s most famous role was Poppie, a restaurant in the hit Seinfeld.
Reni passed away at a hospice centre in Los Angeles (Image: Ron Galella Collection via Getty Images)
Since the news of his passing broke, fans have taken to social media to pay their respects.
“Rest in Peace #ReniSantoni Ferociously funny, talented actor, beautifully irreverent human and my friend. I love you man,” tweeted one.
While a second added: “RIP Reni Santoni aka #Poppie you will be sorely missed. Take your final pee on The Lords couch,” added a second.
“Good journey, Reni Santoni. And thank you,” said a third.
He is survived by his wife, Lisa James and their son, Nick.
Source: Celebrities - dailystar.co.uk
