Boston Legal, Murphy Brown Actor Jay Thomas Dies At 69

Versatile comic and character actor Jay Thomas who starred on Murphy Brown and Cheers has died aged 69.

“His longtime agent and friend Don Buchwald broke the news of his death after a battle with the cancer,” reported Hollywood reporter, citing The New York Daily News.

Thomas’ publicist Tom Estey tweeted, “My dear friend and client - you will be missed!”

#RIP @realjaythomas - my dear friend and client - you will be missed! #famous #actor #TV #film #radio #PR #news https://t.co/ivaYU7wSmv

— Tom Estey (@tomestpr) August 24, 2017

Thomas’ TV career started in the early 80s, and he quickly amassed a number of credits. He played the obnoxious TV talk-show host Jerry Gold on CBS’ Murphy Brown from 1989-98 and won a pair of Emmys.

Another of his famous roles included a hockey player Eddie LeBec who was a husband to character Carla Tortelli (Rhea Perlman) on Cheers.

His other TV shows include Mork and Mindy, Law and Order: SVU, Cold Case, Boston Legal.

He also was famous for his annual Christmas season appearance on David Letterman’s late-night show. He also starred in his own TV shows, Married People and Love and War.

The star’s movie credits include roles in Mr. Holland’s Opus, A Smile Like Yours the Santa Clause franchise, Dragonfly, Labour Pains.

The two-time Emmy winner most recently appeared on Ray Donovan.

He was most recently hosting a radio show on SiriusXM.

Thomas is survived by wife, Sally, and his three sons.