Dom DeLuise Dead at 75

Dom DeLuise, the larger than life actor; chef, and comedian who has starred in many film, TV, and stage comedies, passed on today.

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For generations, DeLuise kept audiences in stitches with sketches- like the one above seen on "The Dean Martin Show", where he portrayed an inept magician; and in numerous films with Mel Brooks, such as "Blazing Saddles":
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and..."History of the World, Part One":

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He also collaborated with longtime friend Burt Reynolds in the two "Cannonball Run" films, portraying J.J.'s buddy Captain Chaos:

NilssonJ/YouTube/20th Centruy Fox

Just as he loved doing films, he loved food even more. He was an accomplished celebrity chef- and I wouldn't at all be surprised that his cooking was the favorite at home as well. I could picture many dinnertimes at the DeLuise home- festive; very lively. And that was the man DeLuise himself, full of life, very much loved by all.

He was 75, and died peacefully in his sleep Monday night. He is survived by his wife of nearly 44 years, actress Carol Arthur; and their three sons Peter, Michael, and David.

He will definitely be missed.

Copyright (C) 2009 by Darren W. Alexander. All Rights Reserved.