Actor David Huddleston, best known for his brief but potent role as the titular man in “The Big Lebowski,” died on Tuesday. He was 85.
The Los Angeles Times reports that Huddleston died from advanced heart and kidney disease.
Huddleston was born in Virginia and worked as an aircraft-engine mechanic in the Air Force. He used the G.I. Bill to attend the American Academy of Dramatic Arts. Though his most memorable role was”The Big Lebowski,” Huddleston had accrued an impressive acting resume long before the Coen Brothers knocked on his door.
In film, Huddleston appeared in movies such as “Blazing Saddles” and “The Producers.” On the small screen, he could be seen in shows like “Gilmore Girls,” “The West Wing” and “The Wonder Years.” Huddleston was also a big fan of theater and appeared in the original Broadway production of “1776” as Ben Franklin. According to his wife, Huddleston considered that role his “crowning achievement.”
He is survived by his wife, son and daughter-in-law.
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