Howard Hesseman has died at the age of 81.
The actor, most known for his roles in WKRP In Cincinnati and Police Academy, died at Cedars Sinai hospital in LA on Saturday, his wife and fellow star Caroline Ducrocq confirmed.
Speaking to the Hollywood Reporter, she explained that he died of complications from colon surgery after going under the knife last summer.
His manager Robbie Kass also added in a statement to People Magazine: ‘He was a groundbreaking talent and lifelong friend and long-time client, whose kindness and generosity was equaled by his influence and admiration to generations of actors and improvisational comedy throughout the world.’
Kass added that the late star ‘will be sorely missed and always treasured’.
After finding his passion for acting in school, Hesseman launched his entertainment career in the 1960s, joining improv group The Committee.
One of his most famous roles came shortly after, in 1978, when he was cast as Dr Johnny Fever in WKRP In Cincinnati, and went on to appear in all 90 episodes of the series.
He gained a lot of attention for the role, and nabbed two Emmy nominations for his portrayal.
As well as WKRP, he made notable appearances in That 70s Show, Dragnet, Lavern and Shirley, The Rockford Files and Head Of The Class.
One of his final filmed projects came as a schoolmaster in Fresh Off The Boat.
Throughout his impressive career, Hesseman also appeared on the big screen, including Heat, Halloween II, Inside Out, Man About Town, All About Steve and Wild Oats.
He famously played Captain Pete Lassard in Police Academy 2: Their First Assignment.
Hesseman married fellow actress Caroline, in 1989, after a seven-year relationship.
He has been survived by his wife and their godchildren, Grace, Hamish and Chet.
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