Cloris Leachman Dead: Celebrities Mourn The Death Of A Comedic Genius

Cloris Leachman, known for playing the iconic character of Phyllis Lindstrom on the TV series “The Mary Tyler Moore Show,” has passed away. She was 94.

The news of her death was confirmed by her longtime manager Juliet Green, who said the actress died of natural causes in Encinitas, California, Variety first reported.

“It’s been my privilege to work with Cloris Leachman, one of the most fearless actresses of our time. There was no one like Cloris. You never knew what Cloris was going to say or do and that unpredictable quality was part of her unparalleled magic,” Variety quoted Green, as saying.

The entertainment industry is mourning her loss, and many celebrities are paying tribute to the iconic media personality on social media.

Leading the tribute was none other than Hollywood veteran Mel Brooks, who shared that “The Wedding Ringer” star was “insanely talented.” He concluded by saying that Leachman is “irreplaceable.”

“Such sad news—Cloris was insanely talented. She could make you laugh or cry at the drop of a hat. Always such a pleasure to have on set. Every time I hear a horse whinny I will forever think of Cloris’ unforgettable Frau Blücher. She is irreplaceable and will be greatly missed.

Meanwhile, actor Ed Asner extended his condolences by sharing a sweet photograph of himself and Leachman on social media. Alongside the picture, Asner wrote that “nothing would top the enormity of my love for you.”

“Salute to Cloris Leachman, who brought comedy’s mysteries to the big and small screen,” Steve Martin posted on Twitter.

“Star Wars” star Mark Hamill also paid tribute to the late comedic genius and thanked Leachman for a “lifetime of unforgettable performances.”

Born on April 30, 1926, Leachman started her professional acting career in 1947 in a movie called “Carnegie Hall.” However, she landed her first major role in Robert Aldrich’s noir classic “Kiss Me Deadly.”

Leachman appeared on numerous TV shows and theater productions up until 1970; however, success came only after two decades of hard work in the entertainment industry. Her impeccable acting in 1971’s hit film “The Last Picture Show” took her popularity to a whole new level and made her win an Academy Award in the Supporting Actress category.

The star continued to give stellar performances throughout her career and won nine Primetime Emmys. Her portrayal of Phyllis Lindstrom on the TV show “Phyllis” made her an icon and earned her many laurels.

“Malcolm in the Middle,” “Mary Tyler Moore,” “The Migrants,” “Promised Land,” “American Gods,” and “The Croods” are some of her other big projects.

Below are more tributes from other celebrities: