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'Murder, She Wrote' actor Ron Masak dies at 86 days after co-star Angela Lansbury

The Chicago-born actor was surrounded by his wife and six children at the time of his demise

THOUSAND OAK, CALIFORNIA: Ron Masak, who portrayed Sheriff Mort Metzger in the popular detective series 'Murder, She Wrote', died in a Thousand Oaks, California, hospital on October 20. The actor died just a few days after Angela Lansbury, his co-star in the popular detective series, died.

The Hollywood Reporter was informed by his granddaughter Kaylie Defilippis that he passed away naturally. The Chicago-born actor was surrounded by his wife and six children at the time of his demise. 

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In more than 40 episodes of the popular show between 1985 and 1986, he played Sheriff Metzger.

Masak appeared in 'Love Thy Neighbor', 'The Monkees', 'Police Story', and 'Wonder Woman', among other programmes. Additionally, he made appearances in the drama programmes 'Magnum PI' and 'Columbo'. Due to his voiceover work, Masak earned the nickname "King of Commercials" and appeared in more than 20 movies. Fans took to social media to honor the late movie star.

One user said, "Rest in peace Ron masak you were amazing as Mort you brought so much to the character Mort was such a great addition to murder she wrote loved seeing him everytime on screen was such a great character my condolences to his family and friends gone but never forgotten."

Another user posted: "This one hurts personally. Ron Masak was extremely talented and hilarious in addition to being a genuinely happy person. Only months ago, to help me celebrate Twilight Zone Day, he signed this. #RIPRonMasak #RIP".

And, a third fan said, "Another entertainer I remember well. Loved him on Murder She Wrote and Dame Angela will be glad to see him."

Five days before turning 97, Lansbury passed away "peacefully in her sleep" on October 11 at her home in Los Angeles. Following her death, Lansbury received numerous tributes. 'Seinfield' actor Jason Alexander wrote, "The great Angela Lansbury - one of the most versatile, talented, graceful, kind, witty, wise, classy ladies I’ve ever met has left us. Her huge contribution to the arts and the world remains always."

Catherine Zeta-Jones who co-starred with Dame Angela in the first Broadway revival of 'A Little Night Music' wrote, "Dearest, darling, Dame Angela Lansbury. May your rest in peace. Our broadway double act will forever be one of the joys of my life. As the lights dim for you on 'The Great White Way' you shall glow forever in our heart. Love you Angela."

Singer Marie Osmond shared a tribute on Twitter, writing, "One of the brightest stars in the last decade - rest in peace Angela Lansbury. The world is a better place because of you."