Acting legend Ed Asner has passed away ‘peacefully’ aged 91, surrounded by his family.
The Mary Tyler Moore Star was the most awarded male performer in Emmy history, with credits in films including Christmas hit Elf – in which he played Santa Claus – and Pixar award-winner Up.
He was also the star of TV spin-off Lou Grant, becoming one of the few actors to play the same character in both a comedy and a drama series.
Ed also starred in iconic TV shows including Cobra Kai, American Dad!, SpongeBob SquarePants and The Good Wife.
He died on Sunday morning, surrounded by family, who issued an emotional statement announcing the late actor’s death.
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It read: “We are sorry to say that our beloved patriarch passed away this morning peacefully. Words cannot express the sadness we feel. With a kiss on your head – Goodnight dad. We love you.”
Tributes immediately began pouring in from fans, with one commenting: “Been watching him for so long, he felt like part of all our families. Deepest sympathies on your loss.”
Another followed up: “Deepest condolences to the family & all who grieve his loss. Many of us are so very sad to hear this.
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“Sending thoughts of comfort & strength. Take solace that he was, and will continue to be, adored & remembered fondly by so many.”
Someone else posted: “He said he wanted to be remembered as a person who made this world a better place. He certainly will be. Rest in peace Mr. Asner and thank you for the memories.”
“My heart breaks right alongside you. Thank you for sharing your dad with us for all these years,” another social media user penned.
(Image: Getty Images)
Ed was born on November 15, 1929, in Kansas City, and began his acting career on the stage.
As the youngest of five children, in his early life, Ed attended Wyandotte High School, where he was the editor for the school paper.
He later spent two years at the University of Chicago, followed by a stint in the Army.
He helped to found the Playwrights Theatre Company in Chicago, and landed his first ever Broadway role in Face of a Hero in 1960, working alongside Jack Lemmon.
Ed’s legacy will live on in the Ed Asner Family Centre, which helps to enrich the lives of families and people with special needs through the mediums of art and music.
Source: Celebrities - dailystar.co.uk
