British-born comedian, game host Richard Dawson dies

Family Feud fame actor Richard Dawson died of esophageal cancer on Saturday at the Ronald Reagan UCLA Medical Center. The British-born comedian-host was being treated at the medical center for some time but on Saturday some complications arose leading to the death of the age of 79-year-old. Richards son Gary Dawson said. "It is with a very heavy heart that I inform you that my father passed away this evening from complications due to esophageal cancer. He was surrounded by his family. He was an amazing talent, a loving husband, a great dad, and a doting grandfather. He will be missed but always remembered," Gary said in a statement. Many Hollywood celebrities, including singer Paula Abdul, actresses Marlee Matlin and Patty Duke, have paid their tributes to the game show legend. "I'm truly saddened by the news of Richard Dawson's passing. My sincere condolences to his family & friends. Such a great loss. I had the privilege of working with Richard Dawson on a movie I choreographed called Running Man with Arnold Schwarzenegger.... He'll be sorely missed," Abdul wrote on Twitter. "Rip Richard Dawson, lot more laughs in heaven now with ur (your) presence. I am grateful for the laughs we had here. Love you," Duke posted.