Actor Charles Grodin Dead At 86

WILTON, CT. (THECOUNT) — Charles Grodin, the actor known for his roles in films such as “The Heartbreak Kid,” “Heaven Can Wait,” “Midnight Run” and “Clifford,” died Tuesday. He was 86.

Nicholas Grodin, the actor’s son, told press outlets that his father died at his home in Wilton, Connecticut. The actor had been battling bone marrow cancer.

Via NBCNews:

Grodin specialized in playing world-weary businessmen and uptight fathers, approaching each role with a deft combination of neurotic intensity and wry detachment. He was especially prolific in the 1980s, taking on memorable supporting parts in various comedies.

Barry Jenkins on bringing his adaptation of ‘The Underground Railroad’ to life
He was also a regular face on television, making frequent appearances on “The Tonight Show with Johnny Carson” and “Late Night with David Letterman,” and a notable performer in Broadway productions such as “Same Time, Next Year.”

Grodin was born in Pittsburgh in 1935 and studied acting at HB Studio in New York City under the famed actress and instructor Uta Hagen.

Grodin made his Hollywood debut with an uncredited performance as a drummer boy in Disney’s “20,000 Leagues Under the Sea” (1954). He was active in theater in the 1960s, appearing in “Absence of a Cello” (1964) and directing “Lovers and Strangers” (1968).

DEVELOPING::

Geo quick facts: Wilton is a town in Fairfield County, Connecticut. As of the 2010 census, the town population was 18,062. Officially recognized as a parish in 1726, Wilton today is a residential community with open lands, historic architecture such as the Round House, and many colonial homes – Wikipedia.