Fred Willard, best known for his roles as comically slow-witted characters, has passed away at age 86. He passed due to natural causes, while asleep and surrounded by his family. “He kept moving, working, and making us happy until the very end. We loved him so very much,” said Hope Mulbarger, his daughter. The news was officially released through both his daughter and a representative for him. Many close to him express their grievances over his death, citing his good attitude and desire to make others smile.
Fred Willard’s Works
Fred Willard was best known for his role in the dramatic sitcom Modern Family. He played Frank in the show, alongside esteemed actors like Elizabeth Banks and Sarah Hyland. Some of his other best-known roles include Ed Harken on Anchorman & its sequel and the voice of the dad in Monster House. All around, Willard was a great actor who will be well missed by fans of his work and the acting community alike. Billy Crystal said of his death “Had the great pleasure of knowing him for almost 40 years. He had a great wit, elegant timing, and a gentle spirit.”
His death comes two years after his wife, Mary Willard’s death. She was a playwright and TV writer, who was considered one of Fred Willard’s biggest cheerleaders and nurtured a lot of members in the couple’s comedy sketch group The Mohos. Following her death, Fred debated whether he’d act again before appearing once more on Jimmy Kimmel Live! to mock the announcement of the Space Force. Given his role in the 1978 TV movie Space Force and upcoming Space Force show, it was quite ironic and comical to watch.
We send our condolences to the family of Fred Willard. His legacy will live on in our hearts for years to come, and his work will likely be used to inspire future actors to pursue acting careers. Did you have any personal connections to Fred Willard’s work? Be sure to tell us your stories, as we’d love to hear them.
