US comedian Louie Anderson dies aged 68
He appeared in films including Coming To America and Ferris Bueller’s Day Off.
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.US comedian Louie Anderson has died aged 68 following complications from cancer.
The stand-up, who won an Emmy for his role in comedy TV series Baskets, had been receiving treatment for diffuse large B cell lymphoma at a hospital in Las Vegas.
A statement from his representative said: “Iconic comedian Louie Anderson passed away peacefully on Friday morning January 21 in Las Vegas at age 68.
“He is survived by his two sisters, Lisa and Shanna Anderson.”
Born and raised in Saint Paul, Minnesota Anderson’s career spanned 40 years, as he progressed from the US club circuit to primetime TV.
He featured in numerous films, including Coming To America and Ferris Bueller’s Day Off, as well as hosting the popular American game show Family Feud for a number of years.
Anderson also co-created and starred in the cartoon sitcom Life With Louie, which was based on his childhood.
In 2016, he was cast to star alongside Zach Galifianakis and Martha Kelly in FX comedy series Baskets.
His role as Christine earned him an Emmy Award in 2016 and two other nominations for outstanding supporting actor.
He also guest-starred on Big Bang Theory spin-off Young Sheldon and was a recurring character in the TBS dark comedy Search Party.
Anderson was also a bestselling author whose works included Dear Dad, about his relationship with his alcoholic father, and Goodbye Jumbo…Hello Cruel World, which looked at his own struggle with food addiction and self-esteem.
His most recent book, Hey Mom, was published in 2018 and paid tribute to the enduring influence of his late mother.
Subscribe to Independent Premium to bookmark this article
Want to bookmark your favourite articles and stories to read or reference later? Start your Independent Premium subscription today.