Mathew Imaging/FilmMagicCharles Durning, known best for his role as Jessica Lange's father, Les, in Tootsie, has died at the age of 89.
The ex-pro boxer and World War II vet, who nabbed a Best Supporting Actor Oscar nomination for his role as Governor in Best Little Whorehouse in Texas and for his role in To Be or Not to Be as Col. Erhardt, passed away on Christmas Eve from natural causes in his New York City home, according to People.
Dubbed the king of the character actors, Durning told USA Today in 1990, "I was born a character actor. I was born looking older…and I've been aging since I was a teenager."
Before his acting days, Durning enlisted in the army and served in World War II where he earned three Purple Hearts.
Durning is survived by his wife Mary Ann Amelio, and his three children, Michele, Douglas and Jeannine, who will have a private family service and burial for the late star at Arlington National Cemetery.