Photo: Gregory Pace/Shutterstock
My Big Fat Greek WeddingStar Michael Constantine has died. He was 94.
His agent, Julia Buchwald, confirmed his death in a statement to PEOPLE, with theNew York Timesreporting that Constantine died of natural causes on Aug. 31.
Michael Constantine, Lainie Kazan, and Bess Meisler in “My Big Fat Greek Wedding”.Sophie Giraud/Ifc/Kobal/Shutterstock
“He was very much a family person. He loved his children, his siblings, his parents,” Gordon toldReading Eagle. “He was the most generous person you’d ever want to meet. The world is a better place because of him — really, truly.”
In a tribute, Brendantweetedon Thursday: “As some of you know, we lost my dad a week ago, 8/31/21. It’s like half the sky is suddenly missing. He was our hero and the kindest man we knew. I want to tell you about him, but just now I haven’t the heart.”
“Michael Constantine, the dad to our cast-family, a gift to the written word, and always a friend,” Vardalos, 58,tweeted Wednesday.“Acting with him came with a rush of love and fun. I will treasure this man who brought Gus to life. He gave us so much laughter and deserves a rest now. We love you Michael.”
Constantine’s on-screen wife Lainie Kazan, who played Maria, also shared atribute to him on FacebookThursday.
“I just found out that my dear friend Michael Constantine passed away today. He was a beloved friend and a brilliant actor/writer who taught me so much about my craft and LIFE,” she wrote. “We shared a make-believe marriage for over 20 years in the moviesMy Big Fat Greek Wedding1 and 2 and soon-to-be 3. What a beautiful relationship.”
Kazan, 81, added, “Michael you will be missed. Heaven has gained another angel.”
Michael Constantine.Dave Allocca/Starpix/Shutterstock
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On the big screen, Constantine starred inThinner, The Last Mile,The Hustle, If It’s Tuesday, This Must Be Belgium,Don’t Drink the WaterandVoyage of the Damned.
His career began on Broadway in 1955, according toDeadline.
source: people.com
