The Big Lebowski's David Huddleston Dead at 85

The actor will be remembered for his titular role in the 1998 cult classic

By Samantha Schnurr Aug 05, 2016 3:22 PMTags
David Huddleston, ObitGramercy Pictures

Hollywood has lost one of its own. 

David Huddleston, the character actor renowned for his longtime career in television and film, has died. The actor passed away on Tuesday from advanced heart and kidney disease, his wife Sarah C. Koeppe confirmed to the New York Times. Huddleston was 85 years old. 

Born in Virginia in 1930, he first served in the United States Air Force before attending the American Academy of Dramatic Arts. The Emmy nominee ultimately got his start on the small screen in the 1960s with roles on Bewitched, Bonanza, Charlie's Angels, The Rockford Files and countless more. He worked up until 2014 with guest appearances on The Wonder YearsThe West Wing, Gilmore Girls and It's Always Sunny in Philadelphia.

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However, he landed arguably his most memorable role in 1998 as the titular millionaire, the Big Lebowski, when he was 67 years old. Among a lengthy list of silver screen parts, he also famously starred as Santa Claus in Santa Clause The Movie in 1998 alongside Dudley Moore and John Lithgow

Huddleston died in New Mexico and is survived by his wife. Since the news broke of his passing, fans have naturally taken to social media to pay their respects and reminisce about the lifetime star. 

Our thoughts are with his family and friends during this time. 

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