Hollywood Loses Another Familiar Face

by Michele Cheplic | More from this Blogger

15 Aug 2006 11:58 PM

He always reminded me of my uncle. He had an engaging face. Not stoic or harsh-the type of face that made you feel like he was very approachable. He never struck me as the type of actor who would deny you a picture or autograph. I could be completely wrong, but now I will never get to test my theory because Bruno Kirby is dead.

According to the Associated Press, Kirby died Monday in Los Angeles from complications related to leukemia. I was shocked to hear the news... especially since I didn't realize that he was ill. A statement released by his wife says while the 57-year-old veteran actor had recently been diagnosed with the disease, his death was unexpected.

"We are incredibly grateful for the outpouring of support we have received from Bruno's fans and colleagues who have admired and respected his work over the past 30 years," his wife said. "Bruno's spirit will continue to live on not only in his rich body of film and television work but also through the lives of individuals he has touched throughout his life."

Kirby was born Bruno Giovanni Quidaciolu in 1949 in New York City. And while he was perhaps best known for his roles in his roles opposite Billy Crystal (in two of my favorite movies of all time "When Harry Met Sally" and "City Slickers"), Kirby's early work was memorable as well. In 1971 he appeared in the "Young Graduates," as well as on the television shows "Room 222," "Fame," "Hill Street Blues" and the made-for-TV movie "The Summer Without Boys." His other film credits included "Good Morning, Vietnam," "The Godfather: Part II" and "Donnie Brasco." More recently, he played Phil Rubenstein on the HBO series "Entourage."

I can't tell you how many times I have watched Kirby in "When Harry Met Sally." I can't believe my dream of someday running into him at an airport will come true.

Learn more about Michele Cheplic

Michele Cheplic was born and raised in Hilo, Hawaii, but now lives in Wisconsin. Michele graduated from the University of Wisconsin-Madison with a degree in Journalism.

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