Vale: Michael Lerner

Veteran US actor Michael Lerner, best known for Barton Fink, Hill Street Blues & Glee, has died, aged 81.

“We lost a legend last night,” nephew, actor Sam Lerner wrote on Instagram. “It’s hard to put into words how brilliant my uncle Michael was, and how influential he was to me. His stories always inspired me and made me fall in love with acting. He was the coolest, most confident, talented guy, and the fact that he was my blood will always make me feel special. Everyone that knows him knows how insane he was— in the best way. I’m so lucky I got to spend so much time with him, and we’re all lucky we can continue to watch his work for the rest of time. RIP Michael, enjoy your unlimited Cuban cigars, comfy chairs, and endless movie marathon.”

No further details on Lerner’s death were given.

Lerner’s film and television credits dateback to the ’60’s and ‘70’s with appearances on The Doris Day Show, The Bob Newhart Show and MASH.

He appeared in multiple episodes of Hill Street Blues, plus roles in Law and Order: SVU, The Good Wife, Clueless and Glee.

Film credits include Alex in Wonderland, The Ski Bum, The Candidate, Outlaw Blues and Elf.

Lerner starred in Barton Fink in 1991 as studio executive Jack Lipnick, landing an Oscar nomination for best supporting actor.

Source: CNN