‘Big Daddy’ Actor Joe Bologna Dies At 82; Wife Releases Statement

“Big Daddy” actor Joe Bologna died on Saturday at the age of 82.

His wife of 52 years, Renee Taylor, released a statement confirming his passing. According to Taylor, Bologna was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer three years ago and had been grateful for the time he was given to be with his family. His team of doctors, who prolonged his life, were Dr. Rogert Lerner and Dr. David Hoffman of Cedars Sinai in Beverly Hills.

Taylor went on to share some details about Bologna’s final six months – the period in which his cancer became most aggressive. “Dr. Vincent Chung and Dr. Stefanie Mooney of City of Hope gave him back a wonderful quality of life by creating a personalized treatment and palliative care plan, so that he could receive a Lifetime Achievement Award at the Night of 100 Stars on Feb. 26, of this year, take a month-long trip to his favorite place, Italy, with his family in June, and attend the 35th Anniversary celebration of ‘My Favorite Year’ on July 27,” she wrote.

According to Deadline, Bologna attended Brown University, where he graduated with a major in art history. In order to support his studies, Brown shined shoes and used the income to send himself to school. After graduating from the university, the Oscar-nominated actor served in the United States Marine Corps.

As for his notable achievements in the entertainment industry, Bologna, in collaboration with Taylor, wrote his first Broadway show, “Lovers and Other Strangers,” which was directed by Charles Grodin. The play was adapted for film and was also nominated for an Academy Award for best screenplay. The couple also wrote and starred in “Made for Each Other,” which earned them a Writer’s Guild Award.

Meanwhile, the actor’s final work was in “Tango Shalom,” a project that he wrote and starred in alongside Taylor. His daughter, Zizi Bologna, served as music supervisor, while his son, Gabriel, directed the project.

Bologna and Taylor, who first met through their manager, celebrated their 52nd wedding anniversary on Aug. 11. On the night before he passed away, Taylor asked her husband what he thinks is the meaning of life. According to the publication, Taylor thought that Bologna would say something funny, but he simply said, “love.”