Entertainment
Ralph Macchio and Jon Cryer lead tributes as Superman actor Ned Beatty dies aged 83
Stars including Ralph Macchio and Jon Cryer have paid tribute following the news of Superman actor Ned Beatty’s death at the age of 83.
On Sunday June 13, it was announced that Beatty had died from ‘natural causes’.
The film and TV actor, best-known for roles in movies including Network, Superman and Toy Story 3, is said to have been surrounded by his ‘family and loved ones’ when he died.
Beatty’s manager, Deborah Miller, said: ‘Ned passed away from natural causes Sunday morning, surrounded by his family and loved ones.’
In the statement sent to TheWrap, she continued: ‘His family has decided to keep details private at this time. Ned was an iconic, legendary talent, as well as a dear friend, and he will be missed by us all.’
A family member told TMZ that the Network actor died in his sleep surrounded by his family.
Tributes have come pouring in for the esteemed actor from fans and other members of the entertainment industry.
The Karate Kid and Cobra Kai star Ralph Macchio tweeted: ‘Ned Beatty. Superb character actor – my fave being his brilliantness in NETWORK (one of the greatest screenplays and films of all time).
‘So ahead of its time. And same for Mr. Beatty. RIP.’
Lance Henriksen, who starred as Bishop in the Alien film franchise, wrote: ‘Another huge loss for the acting community.’
Two and a Half Men actor Jon Cryer referenced Beatty’s performances in the Superman films, tweeting: ‘“Otisburg…?”‘, along with the hashtag: ‘#RIPNedBeatty.’
One of the roles for which Beatty is most revered was as Arthur Jensen in the 1976 film Network.
Despite only appearing on screen a few times in the movie, he earned a best supporting actor nomination at the Academy Awards for his performance.
He also played Lex Luthor’s henchman Otis in Superman and Superman II, in addition to starring in Homicide: Life on the Street, The Rockford Files and the comedy Roseanne.
In 2010, Beatty voiced the character of villainous bear Lotso in Pixar’s animated film Toy Story 3.
Beatty is survived by his wife Sandra Johnson, and his eight children and grandchildren.
