American actor and comedian Joe Flaherty, known for his roles on Freaks and Geeks and the sketch comedy series SCTV, has died at the age of 82.
Flaherty's death was announced by his daughter, who says it came after a brief illness.
Born in Pittsburgh, Flaherty got his start in comedy as part of Chicago's improve group The Second City.
His career spanned nearly five decades, with credits on many beloved television comedies like Frasier and Family Guy.
After eight years on SCTV, Flaherty was cast on the teen comedy-drama Freaks and Greeks as Harold Weir, the father of two awkward teenagers.
The series was cancelled after a single season but later became a cult classic and launched the careers of several young actors, including James Franco, Seth Rogen, Busy Philipps, Jason Segel and Linda Cardellini.
Flaherty was also known for a small but memorable role in the 1996 film Happy Gilmore, where he played a heckler who taunts the titular golf player, played by Adam Sandler.
Co-stars remembered Flaherty as a kind and talented comedian.
Flaherty was married to Judith Dagley for 22 years until their divorce in 1996.
He leaves behind two children, Gudrun and Gabriel Flaherty.
Source: BBC Entertainment
