Tributes have been paid in memory of John Mahoney, who has died at the age of seventy-seven. Mahoney was best known for his role in hugely popular American sitcom Frasier, as Martin Crane. Crane was often a grumpy but good-humoured father of Frasier and Miles. Frasier was a massive success as a sitcom and ran for 11 seasons, from 1993 and 2004.
Mahoney was also a member of Steppenwolf theatre company for 39 years, and the company announced his death on their social media accounts.
They wrote: ‘It is with our deepest sorrow that we share the news that ensemble member of 39 years John Mahoney passed away. Tonight’s opening night performance of You Got Older has been cancelled. We are instead inviting all to gather in Front Bar this evening. All are welcome to join us.’
It is with our deepest sorrow that we share the news that ensemble member of 39 years John Mahoney passed away. Tonight’s opening night performance of You Got Older has been cancelled. We are instead inviting all to gather in Front Bar this evening. All are welcome to join us. pic.twitter.com/k8yrrR7ICA
— Steppenwolf Theatre (@SteppenwolfThtr) February 6, 2018
Frasier Casting Director Jeff Greenberg wrote the following of the actor:’I’ve not known a kinder man nor more brilliant actor. We were all blessed to have spent 11 glorious years together.’
Many actors have expressed their condolences on Twitter, including Modern Family star Jesse Tyler Ferguson, Ben Stiller and more.
I have looked up to #JohnMahoney for so many years for so many reasons. He has always been an inspiration to me. He will continue to be.❤️
— Jesse Tyler Ferguson (he/him/his) (@jessetyler) February 6, 2018
Mahoney also appeared in 3rd Rock From The Sun, Cheers and more. He never married and had no children. He died in hospice care in Chicago.
John Mahoney has moved on. A Great actor. Incredible wicked sense of humor. And someone who made a huge difference in my life and many others. #RIPJohnMahoney #respect https://t.co/SHNHtff6QJ
— Ben Stiller (@BenStiller) February 6, 2018
RIP, John Mahoney. Thank you for many years of laughter. We'll miss you Marty Crane. pic.twitter.com/QaJu9YpmdO
— NBC Entertainment (@nbc) February 6, 2018
Feature Image: @Steppenwolfthtr