The Mary Tyler Moore Show star Ed Asner has passed away at the age of 91.
Best known for his role as Lou Grant, the legendary actor died peacefully surrounded by his loved ones on Sunday.
“We are sorry to say that our beloved patriarch passed away this morning peacefully,” Asner’s heartbroken family tweeted from the legendary TV actor’s account.
“Words cannot express the sadness we feel. With a kiss on your head – Goodnight dad. We love you,” the post added.
A veteran of Chicago’s comedy theater scene, Asner is the most decorated male performer in the history of Emmys, with a total of 7 wins – 5 of which were for his role in the Mary Tyler Moore Show.
In a 2015 interview with The Malibu Times, the late star said: “At least 50 percent of people recognize me for that role. It put me on the map and I’m forever grateful for that.”
Asner also won Emmys for his work in the miniseries ‘Rich Man, Poor Man’ miniseries and ‘Roots.’
He continued to work prolifically in television and films, appearing in such series as ‘Grace and Frankie,’ ‘Cobra Kai,’ ‘ER,’ ‘Modern Family,’ ‘The X-Files,’ ‘Studio 60 on the Sunset Strip,’ ‘The Good Wife,’ ‘Dead To Me,’ and ‘Hot in Cleveland.’
He also played Santa Claus many times, most notably in the 2003 movie ‘Elf.’
The beloved star lent his voice for numerous animated projects, including the 2009 film ‘Up.’
“I never get enough work,” he said in a 2009 interview with The Associated Press. “It’s the history of my career. There just isn´t anything to turn down, let me put it that way.
“I’d say most people are probably in that same boat, old people, and it’s a shame.”
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