Jerry Stiller, the beloved comedian whose decades-strong career boasted multiple celebrated classics including years spent earning praise as part of the Stiller and Meara comedy duo, has died at the age of 92.
In a statement early Monday, Ben Stiller—Jerry and Anna Meara's son—said his father had passed away from natural causes. Ben remembered Jerry as "a great dad and grandfather," as well as "the most dedicated husband" to Anna for more than six decades.Â
"He will be greatly missed," Ben said. "Love you Dad."
In one of his most adored roles, Jerry played George Costanza's father Frank on the still-omnipresent sitcom Seinfeld. The character seemed tailor-made for Jerry's sensibilities, with Frank frequently written as an integral element in some of the industry-shifting comedy classic's most memorable moments, including the Season 9 gem "The Serenity Now."
Jerry will also be remembered for playing Arthur Spooner on The King of Queens, ultimately appearing in 195 episodes of the series, as well as for appearances in an extended list of movies spanning multiple eras of comedy. In addition to routinely appearing in his son's movies, Jerry's filmography included Hairspray, The Taking of Pelham One Two Three, Seize the Day, The Pickle, and more.Â
Following Ben's message on Monday, many took the opportunity to reflect on their favorite moments from Jerry's catalog, with many tributes focusing on unforgettable bits of Frank Costanzaism:
RIP.
