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Goodbye, Len Lesser
Actor Len Lesser died in his home today of pneumonia related to cancer, while surrounded by friends and family. He was 88.
Lesser, an acclaimed character actor, was widely known for his role as Uncle Leo on "Seinfeld," but his highly successful film and television career spanned over 60 years. Since 1955, he had appeared in dozens of shows, including "The Munsters," "ER," "Mad About You" and "Everybody Loves Raymond."
Over the past few years, Lesser returned to the stage -- a medium he loved -- as a regular performer with the Glendale theater company A Noise Within.
In a statement, Lesser's daughter, Michele Lesser, said, "Heaven got a great comedian and actor today....Thank you to all the people who helped make my father's last journey special, and surrounded with love. The doctors, nurses, and staff have been outstanding, and Dad was in phenomenal hands. His passing was peaceful, with great dignity, and surrounded by those who loved him dearly."
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Len Lesser was born on December 3, 1922, in New York City. Below is a video of Lesser from our 2010 TV Junkie Interview, during which he talks about being interrupted by fans at Jerusalem's Western Wall, working with Clint Eastwood, and doing live TV in the 1950's.
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But the game has changed: Congress voted to eliminate funding for public media across the country. Here at LAist that means a loss of $1.7 million in our budget every year. We want to assure you that despite growing threats to free press and free speech, LAist will remain a voice you know and trust. Speaking frankly, the amount of reader support we receive will help determine how strong of a newsroom we are going forward to cover the important news in our community.
We’re asking you to stand up for independent reporting that will not be silenced. With more individuals like you supporting this public service, we can continue to provide essential coverage for Southern Californians that you can’t find anywhere else. Become a monthly member today to help sustain this mission.
Thank you for your generous support and belief in the value of independent news.
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