LOS ANGELES, Calif. – Actor Fred Willard has died at the age of 86, according to his family.
Willard’s daughter, Hope, told People Magazine and The Hollywood Reporter that her father passed away Friday night “very peacefully.”
A representative for the comedian confirmed to People that Willard died of natural causes. His death comes two years after the death of his longtime wife, Mary.
The actor was known for his comedic roles in numerous movies, such as “Best in Show,” the “Anchorman” films and "A Mighty Wind," as well as TV shows, like “Everybody Loves Raymond,” “Modern Family” and “Roseanne.”
Willard was an Ohio native, born in Shaker Heights, which is near Cleveland. He graduated from the Kentucky and Virginia military institutes and served in the Army.
Saturday afternoon, actress Jamie Lee Curtis paid her respects to Willard on Instagram. Her husband, Christopher Guest, had collaborated on several projects with Willard.
“A fond farewell to Mr. Fred Willard. How lucky we all are that we got to witness his great gifts. Thanks for the deep belly laughs. You are now with Mary. Home safe,” she wrote.
