Actress and comedian Anne Meara, who appeared in dozens of films and television shows and is the mother of Hollywood star Ben Stiller, has died. She was 85.
Meara, who with her husband Jerry Stiller formed a popular comedy duo in the 1960s, died on Saturday, according to US media. The cause of death was not immediately known.
Film producer Michael Skolnik said on Twitter: “The great actress, Anne Meara (Ben Stiller’s mom) who I had the pleasure of working with 20 yrs ago, has passed away.”
The redhead featured in everything from crime dramas to soap operas, but is best known for her comedic work.
She had recurring roles on Archie Bunker’s Place — a sequel to All in the Family — and The King of Queens.
She was nominated for a Golden Globe for her work on Rhoda, and was a four-time Emmy nominee.
Meara and her husband were part of The Compass Players improv group that later became Second City.
In reviewing Meara’s performance in The Daytrippers two decades ago, renowned film critic Roger Ebert said: “she is, almost by definition, superb at her assignment here, which is to create an insufferable mother.”
“The film’s problem is that she does it so well,” he added.
In 1984, Meara shared a Writers Guild Award with Lila Garrett for The Other Woman, a romantic comedy television film.
Tributes poured in from fellow actors as news of her death filtered through.
“I always loved Anne Meara: funny forever, a terrific actress, & a really fine human being. RIP,” actor-comedian Michael McKean tweeted.
Actress Patty Duke wrote: “RIP Anne Meara. Sorry to hear of her passing. Prayers and love to her family and friends.”
