Ron Leibman dies aged 82: Actor who starred as Rachel's dad in world famous sitcom Friends had pneumonia
American actor Ron Leibman, who starred as Rachel's father in world famous sitcom Friends, has died aged 82 after suffering from pneumonia.
The award-winning New Yorker had a decorated career in film and television spanning 60 years.
Though best known for his role as hot-headed parent Dr Leonard Green in Friends alongside Jennifer Aniston, he starred in blockbusters including Norma Rae and Slaughterhouse-Five.
He also voiced Ron Cadillac in animated comedy Archer, as well as Dr Lior Plepler in 2006 series The Sopranos and Reuben in Oscar-nominated film Norma Rae.
Leibman won an Emmy award in 1979 for Kaz, his own crime drama series, and a Best Actor Tony Award in 1993 for his performance as Roy Cohn in Angels in America.
His agent said in a statement: "We at Abrams Artists Agency are saddened to hear the news of Ron’s passing.
"Ron was an incredibly talented actor with a distinguished career in film, TV and theatre. Our thoughts go out to his wife, Jessica, and his family."
Tributes have poured in for the actor, led by his Norma Rae co-star Sally Field.
She wrote online: "So many of the best memories of my career have Ron Leibman in them. Thank you, Ron. For my being my champion. Rest, my friend."
US actor Eddie McClintock hailed him as a "brilliant actor" and screenwriter Larry Karaszewski said his performances were a "masterclass in great acting".
Author Don Winslow added: "Very sad. What a phenomenal actor this guy was. Great in everything."
Leibman leaves behind his wife, actress Jessica Walter, whom he married in 1983.
