Character actor Bruno Kirby dies of leukemia at 57
LOS ANGELES – Bruno Kirby, a veteran character actor known for playing the best friend in two of Billy Crystal’s biggest comedies “When Harry Met Sally” and “City Slickers,” has died. He was 57.
Kirby died Monday in Los Angeles from complications related to leukemia, his wife Lynn Sellers said in a statement Tuesday.
He had been recently diagnosed with the disease.
“We are incredibly grateful for the outpouring of support we have received from Bruno’s fans and colleagues who have admired and respected his work over the past 30 years,” his wife said.
“Bruno’s spirit will continue to live on not only in his rich body of film and television work but also through the lives of individuals he has touched throughout his life.”
Born Bruno Giovanni Quidaciolu in 1949 in New York City, he was the son of actor Bruce Kirby. His early work included the 1971 film “Young Graduates,” as well as appearances on the television shows “Room 222,” “The Super” and the made-for-TV movie “The Summer Without Boys.”
In 1974, he scored a role in “The Godfather: Part II,” which won several Academy Awards, including best picture. In the film, Kirby played young Peter Clemenza, following Richard S. Castellano’s role in the first installment.
Over the next few years, Kirby made various TV appearances, including “Fame” and “Hill Street Blues,” before landing the role of the humorless “2nd Lt. Steven Hauk” in Robin Williams’ “Good Morning, Vietnam.”
That was followed two years later by the romantic comedy “When Harry Met Sally,” in which Kirby played Crystal’s best friend. In 1991, Kirby once again appeared as Crystal’s cheery friend in “City Slickers,” – along for a midlife adventure driving cattle on a dude ranch.
Other movies included “This is Spinal Tap,” “The Freshman” and “The Basketball Diaries.” Kirby also appeared in 1997’s “Donnie Brasco,” and recently in an episode of the HBO hit series “Entourage.”
Along with his wife and father, Kirby is survived by his stepmother Roz Kirby, brother John Kirby and stepbrother Brad Sullivan.
No information on funeral arrangements was immediately available.