Harry Anderson, the comic who presided over nine seasons of the NBC hit Night Court (1984-1992) with his offbeat, folksy humor, has died at his home in Asheville, North Carolina, according to local media.
Harry Anderson: October 14, 1952-April 16, 2018 (Image via NBC)
He was 65.
Police do not suspect foul play, and are treating Anderson's surprising death as the result of natural causes.
After appearing on SNL (1981-1985) and on three early episodes of Cheers in 1982 as a con artist, Anderson, who toured as a magician, landed the role of Harry Stone on Night Court. He worked only occasionally after the show's incredibly successful run, including in the original 1990 It miniseries, on anthology series, and as humor columnist Dave Barry (b. 1947) for four seasons of the series Dave's World (1993-1997).
For 30 Rock in 2008, Anderson joined Night Court cast members Markie Post (b. 1950) and Charlie Robinson (b. 1945) for a meta episode entitled "The One with the Cast of Night Court."
He is survived by his wife, Elizabeth, and by two children from his first marriage.
Former Night Court castmates and others in the business react:
I am devastated. I’ll talk about you later, Harry, but for now, I’m devastated.
— Markie Post (@markie_post) April 16, 2018
Oh, no!
Aw man, I'm so sorry to hear this.
My condolences to his family, friends, fans and everyone who loved him.
Rest in peace, Harry the Hat, you were my friend. https://t.co/fv2yzW4sku
— Marsha Warfield (@MarshaWarfield) April 16, 2018
Stunned by the passing of Harry Anderson, one of my comedy and magic inspirations growing up. We became friendly over the years - he worked at the @MagicCastle_AMA and recently sold me a handful of great magic memorabilia. My sincere condolences to his family. #RIP pic.twitter.com/k9FITPIaBS
— Neil Patrick Harris (@ActuallyNPH) April 17, 2018
I interviewed Harry Anderson when I was 15 years old and he was so kind, and frank and hilarious. The interview is in my book Sick In The Head. He was a one of a kind talent who made millions so happy. https://t.co/0ksw4WKvxB
— Judd Apatow (@JuddApatow) April 16, 2018
