RIP. Oscar-winning actor George Kennedy died on Sunday, February 28, at age 91. According to his grandson Cory Schenkel’s Facebook page, Kennedy died Sunday morning in Boise, Idaho.
“For 14 years I took care of my grandparents. I have travelled on many business trips and movie shoots with my grandpa. I have gone grocery shopping and cooking with my grandma so much I now feel like it’s a routine of mine. I have created so many great memories and I will enjoy them for life. While I am extremely sad that they are both gone (my grandma in September 14 and my grandpa this morning) I am grateful for the life, memories, and knowledge they shared with me,” Kennedy’s grandson shared. “They both lived amazing lives and I know they are resting in peace.”
The late star, who was born in New York City, first began as a radio performer and then put a hold on his acting career to serve in World War II. After 16 years in the Army, Kennedy returned to Hollywood and earned a best supporting actor Oscar for his role in the 1967 flick Cool Hand Luke. In the film, he portrayed the character Dragline alongside Paul Newman.
The actor also starred in all four Airport films as well as The Dirty Dozen, The Naked Gun and the disaster film Earthquake, among others. He last appeared in Mark Wahlberg’s 2014 film The Gambler.
Kennedy also starred as Carter McKay in CBS’ Dallas for three seasons and wrote multiple books, including the murder mystery Murder on Location and his 2011 autobiography Trust Me.
His wife, Joan, passed away in September.
