Actor Michael Lerner, known for roles in Godzilla and Elf, dies at the age of 81
- Michael Lerner, a longtime actor known for his roles in Godzilla, Elf and Barton Fink, has passed away at the age of 81
- Sam Lerner, the actor’s cousin, shared the news via Instagram on Sunday
- Michael appeared in movies including Newsies, Harlem Nights, The Mod Squad, Celebrity and For Richer or Poorer
Michael Lerner, a longtime actor known for his roles in Godzilla, Elf and Barton Fink, has passed away at the age of 81. TMZ reported Sunday.
Sam Lerner, the actor’s cousin, shared the news via Instagram on Sunday.
He wrote: ‘We lost a legend last night. It’s hard to put into words how brilliant my Uncle Michael was and how influential he was on me.”
The 30-year-old actor continued in his heartfelt message, “His stories have always inspired me and made me fall in love with acting.
“He was the coolest, most confident, talented guy, and the fact that he was my blood will always make me feel special.”
RIP: Michael Lerner, a longtime actor known for his roles in Godzilla, Elf and Barton Fink, has passed away at age 81, TMZ reported Sunday
Writing to his 117,000 followers on the platform, he continued: “Anyone who knows him knows how insane he was – in the best way.”
Sam added, “I’m so lucky to have been able to spend so much time with him, and we’re all lucky to be able to watch his work for the rest of the time.”
He ended the post by writing, “RIP Michael, enjoy your unlimited Cuban cigars, comfy chairs and endless movie marathon.”
Michael made a mark on audiences when he played James Caan’s boss, Fulton, in 2003’s Elf, starring Will Ferrell.
He also appeared in movies including Newsies, Harlem Nights, The Mod Squad, Celebrity and For Richer or Poorer.
Breaking: Sam Lerner, the actor’s cousin, shared the news via Instagram on Sunday