Al Molinaro, best known for playing Big Al Delvecchio on the hit series "Happy Days" and Murray the cop in "The Odd Couple," died in California Friday at the age of 96.
The actor's son, Michael, confirmed the news to to TMZ, revealing that his father died at Verdugo Hills hospital in Glendale, Calif., following complications from gallstone problems. Molinaro reportedly chose not to remove the stones due to his age.
Molinaro's earliest television role was on "Get Smart," playing Agent 44 in two episodes. He got his big break after producer Garry Marshall heard about the funnyman and decided to hire him for the part of police officer Murray Greshler on "The Odd Couple," a show about feuding roommates. The series, which ran from 1970-75, also starred Tony Randall and Jack Klugman. Molinaro's character was described as a "simple-minded policeman who at times seemed as much of a threat to his friends as he did to any criminals," according to The Guardian.
The actor appeared on "Happy Days" from season four to season nine. His other acting credits included "Punky Brewster," "Step by Step" and short-lived "Happy Days" spinoff series "Joani Loves Chachi." He also acted in several commercials and a cameo in Weezer's music video for "Buddy Holly."
The Wisconsin native is survived by his wife Betty and son Michael.
