Jack Klugman (1922-2012) Dead at 90

Jack Klugman, American stage, television and film actor has died. Klugman was mostly know for his portrayal as Oscar Madison, the flaky, grumpy curmudgeon and foil to Tony Randall‘s uptight Felix Unger. The cat-and-mouse, yin-and-yang, duo were on the television version of The Odd Couple; Oscar Madison was played by Walter Matthau in the filmic version. The Odd Couple ran from September 24, 1970 to March 7, 1975 on NBC. Viewers and fans also know Klugman from the titular role of the pre-CSI, mystery-solving medical examiner, Quincy, M.E. This other Klugman/NBC vehicle, Quincy, ran from October 3, 1976, to September 5, 1983.

Klugman, a heavy smoker, was diagnosed with throat cancer in 1974. In 1989, he lost the center of his right vocal cord due to cancer of the larynx but he trained himself to speak again. He continued to act on stage and television, although, was left with a raspy tone, which became his trademark. Character actor, supporting role or lead actor, he could do it all, displaying true range as a professional thespian.

Jack Klugman passed away with his wife at his side, at their home, in Northridge, Los Angeles. He is survived by his two sons, David and Adam, and two grandchildren.

It is a somber Christmas Eve for his family, friends and fans. Our condolences to all.

–@teemunny

• The New York Times: Jack Klugman, Half of TV’s ‘Odd Couple,’ Dies at 90
• Los Angeles Times: Jack Klugman dies in Los Angeles
• The Washington Post: Jack Klugman, star of ‘Odd Couple,’ dead at 90
• The Huffington Post: Jack Klugman Dead: ‘The Odd Couple’ Actor Dies At 90
• Entertainment Weekly: ‘Odd Couple’ actor Jack Klugman dies at 90