Fred Willard, the comedic actor whose improv style kept him relevant for more than 50 years in films like "This Is Spinal Tap," "Best In Show" and "Anchorman," died Friday night. He was 86.
Willard was rarely a leading man or even a major supporting character. He specialized in small, scene-stealing appearances. As an arrogantly clueless sports announcer on "Best In Show," his character seemed to clearly know nothing about the dogs he's supposed to talk about and asks his partner on-air: "How much do you think I can bench?" He also played the character of Frank Dunphy, the goofy father of Phil in the ABC series "Modern Family."
Willard was a four-time Emmy nominee for his roles in "What's Hot, What's Not," "Everybody Loves Raymond," "Modern Family" and "The Bold and the Beautiful." In Pixar's 2008 hit "WALL-E," he voiced the character of Shelby Forthright, the CEO of a ubiquitous big-box chain called Buy N Large.
"How lucky that we all got to enjoy Fred Willard's gifts," said Jamie Lee Curtis. "Thanks for the deep belly laughs, Mr. Willard."
Willard's death comes nearly two years after his wife, Mary Willard, died at 71. She was a playwright and TV writer, earning four Emmy nominations.
After his wife died, Willard questioned whether he would work again. But the beloved actor was brought on "Jimmy Kimmel Live!" to mock President Donald Trump's "space force." It was a reprise role of the 1978 NBC show "Space Force."
"There was no man sweeter or funnier," Kimmel said. "We were so lucky to know Fred Willard and will miss his many visits."
Graceland is reopening
Elvis Presley's Graceland says it will reopen Thursday after it shut down tours and exhibits due to the coronavirus outbreak. The tourist attraction in Memphis said Sunday that it has adjusted its tours, and restaurant and retail operations, since it closed in March. The Memphis tourist attraction is centered on the life and career of the King of rock 'n' roll. It annually attracts about 500,000 visitors, including international travelers. Graceland said that it is reducing tours of Presley's former home-turned-museum to 25% capacity, requiring employees and encouraging visitors to wear face masks, and limiting restaurant capacities to 50%. Temperature checks for guests and employees will be implemented and hand sanitizing stations are being installed.
