Garry Marshall, who made America laugh with such classic sitcoms as Happy Days, The Odd Couple, Laverne and Shirley, and Mork and Mindy, died Tuesday, July 19. Marshall died from complications of pneumonia following a stroke, a spokeswoman at Rogers & Cowan said. He was 81.
Marshall also made a name for himself in movies, directing hits like Pretty Woman, which cemented Julia Roberts‘ place as America’s sweetheart, and The Princess Diaries, which gave a boost to Anne Hathaway‘s career. Most recently Marshall had been tackling the subject matter of holidays with the films Valentine’s Day, New Year’s Day, and Mother’s Day.
Earlier this year, Kate Hudson, who starred in Marshall’s Mother’s Day told Parade, “This is the second time I’ve worked with Garry. We did Raising Helen together years ago. There’s nothing intimidating about Garry. He’s a family man. He’s warm. He’s lovely. He’s funny. He’s so damn funny and he’s just a beautiful, lovable man, and it’s an honor to have been a part of his movies. You know that when you’re making a Garry Marshall movie that you’re making a movie that will make people smile.”
Over the span of his career, Marshall developed and created 14 TV series, which earned him five Emmy nominations and inclusion in the TV Academy’s Hall of Fame. He was responsible for launching the careers of Henry Winkler, Pam Dawber, Robin Williams and his sister Penny Marshall.
Winkler took to twitter to honor his mentor, writing: “GARRY MARSHALL Rest In Peace .. Thank you for my professional life. Thank you for your loyalty , friendship and generosity.”
Sarah Paulson, who worked with Marshall on The Other Sister, wrote:”Garry Marshall, I am forever indebted to you. Thank you for taking a chance on me. I love you. On the wings on Angels, rest now.”
And Jason Alexander, who appeared in Pretty Woman, added: “Garry Marshall gave me one of the best experiences I ever had in my career. Thanks pal. RIP.”
Marshall also was responsible for directing Young Doctors in Love, The Flamingo Kid, Nothing in Common, Overboard, Beaches, Frankie and Johnny, Dear God, and Runaway Bride.
Marshall is survived by his wife, Barbara, son Scott, daughters Lori, and Kathleen, several grandchildren; and sisters Penny Marshall and Ronny Hallin.
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