George Segal, a longtime leading man in movies who can be currently seen as the lovable grandfather on ABC’s “The Goldbergs,” died Tuesday. He was 87.
Segal’s wife, Sonia Segal, issued a statement announcing her husband’s death via Sony Pictures Television, which produces “The Goldbergs.”
“The family is devastated to announce that this morning George Segal passed away due to complications from bypass surgery,” Sonia Segal said. The statement did not say when the surgery took place or offer any other details.
Segal, born Feb. 13, 1934, in Great Neck, Long Island, New York. He received an Academy Award nomination for best-supporting actor for his portrayal of Nick in 1966’s “Who’s Afraid of Virginia Woolf?” the film adaptation of a play headlined by Richard Burton and Elizabeth Taylor.
Segal’s “Goldbergs” colleagues, identified as the show’s “family” in a statement forwarded by Sony, offered their sentiments regarding “the loss of our dear friend, George,” who also famously entertained late-night TV audiences with his expert banjo-playing skills.
“He was kind, sweet, beyond talented and funny. George was the true epitome of class, and he touched all of our lives so deeply. It was an honour and a privilege to have him as a colleague and friend all of these years,” the statement said. “He will be missed by all. Pops, we will miss your banjo playing and your infectious laugh. Rest in peace.”
Sony offered its condolences, remembering Segal as a “true icon” who “brightened the screen whenever he was on camera”, and ABC Entertainment said the actor’s “talent had left an indelible mark, and we’re grateful for the laughter and joy he has given us all.”
Segal’s friend and manager, Abe Hoch, also issued a statement mourning Segal’s passing.
