Former “Night Court” star Harry Anderson passed away at the age of 65 on April 16. The cause of his death was not disclosed.
Anderson started his career in entertainment as a magician and later became and actor and comedian. In addition to his his role as Judge Harry Stone on the hit sitcom, he also made appearances on “Cheers,” “The Tonight Show” and “Saturday Night Live.” He also played humor columnist Dave Barry in the sitcom based on Barry’s life, “Dave’s World,” from 1993 to 1997.
In the wake of Anderson’s death, his former co-stars and colleagues in the comedy world offered their remembrances of Anderson and condolences to his loved ones.
John Larroquette, who played a lawyer on “Night Court” remembered Anderson’s sharp humor and big heart:
Harry Anderson. He was wicked smart. He was wicked funny. He had a big laugh. He had a big heart. He delighted in legerdemain especially when he caused someone to scratch their head and proclaim; How the hell did you do that? And he could eat a hamster like no one I ever knew.
— John B. Larroquette (@johnlarroquette) April 17, 2018
Markie Post, who played a public defender on the show, said she was devastated at the news of the loss of her friend:
I am devastated. I’ll talk about you later, Harry, but for now, I’m devastated.
— Markie Post (@markie_post) April 16, 2018
Fellow comedian and “Mad About You” star Paul Reiser remembered him as a “gentle soul” and fondly recalled their days working together before they hit it big:
So sad to hear of passing of #HarryAnderson. I remember driving to NJ for $40/night gigs with him, before he became a huge star. (Nobody does that AFTER they're a huge star.) He was truly one of the nicest guys. A gentle soul. He will be missed. RIP friend..
— Paul Reiser (@PaulReiser) April 17, 2018
Producer, writer and director Judd Apatow was just 15 years old when he got the chance to interview Anderson, and he called the late star a “one of a kind talent”:
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
Anderson eventually retreated from the spotlight and resurfaced in New Orleans, where he owned a magic shop. After Hurricane Katrina in 2005, he moved to Asheville, North Carolina, where he lived until his death.