Remembering Tony Randall
He starred with everyone from Rock Hudson and
Doris Day to Jane Mansfield and Marilyn Monroe. And Monday
night, legendary actor Tony Randall died in his sleep. He
was 84. He is survived by his wife, Heather Harlan Randall
and their two children.
And though his career spanned decades, and dozens of characters, in most people's hearts Tony was just one man -- the infallible Felix Unger. He'll be forever linked with co-star Jack Klugman, which was just fine by Tony. "People are always talking about the chemistry you can't plan, that you hope it happens between actors," Randall once told us.
Randall spoke to "Extra" often over the years, including during a special visit at his home with his wife Heather and their two children, who came along just after Tony's 77th birthday. "It is a miracle, birth, life is a miracle," he told us then.
It had been a tough year for Randall, following bypass surgery last December. Today, condolences are pouring in from around the entertainment world. From David Letterman to Larry King, everyone's got a special memory of the TV, film and Broadway star.
"He was a great comedian and a true artist, we will surely miss him," Steve Harvey said.
TV Land will dedicate this Thursday night's lineup to some of Randall's finest "Odd Couple" episodes, a fitting tribute says network chief Larry Jones.
Randall actually re-teamed with Klugman in recent years for a stage production of "The Sunshine Boys," but Randall told "Extra" that fatherhood would always be his greatest role. "I loved being Mr. Mom," he told us.
And in the end, it was the time he spent with his family that Randall focused on, and not the thought of only being with them for a short time. He once told us, "I know it's a possibility, what good will worrying do? I can't change anything, can I? Live today and enjoy every moment."
In tribute to Randall, lights at all the Broadway theaters will be dimmed at 8 p.m., Tuesday. And for more on the star, watch Tuesday’s edition of "Extra."
|
