George gaynes

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RIP‘Punky Brewster’ Star George Gaynes Has Died at Age 98

Rest in peace, George Gaynes.

George’s daughter Iya Gaynes confirmed the actor— who was most known for starring in the Police Academy film franchise and on the 1980s sitcom Punky Brewster — sadly died at age 98 on Monday, Feb. 15 to Variety. His cause of death is unknown at this time.

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George (top, middle) with his Punky Brewster costars. (Photo Credit: Getty Images)

Following the news of George’s passing, his former Punky Brewster costar Soleil Moon Frye took to Twitter on Tuesday, Feb. 16 to pay her respects to the late actor.

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“The universe just gained a gigantic star. You will be in my heart and soul always and forever.
Your little Punky. RIP George Gaynes,” she wrote.

George — who is also remembered for dressing in drag in the 1982 film Tootsie — also appeared on a plethora of shows including The Days and Nights of Molly Dodd and Hearts Afire before he retired from acting in 2003.

He is survived by his 89-year-old wife, Allyn Ann McLerie, as well as his daughter, Iya, a granddaughter and two great-granddaughters.

Our thoughts are with George’s family during this difficult time.

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