Steve Landesberg Dead At 65

Steve Landesberg, the dry-witted and intellectual former stand-up comic who starred as Detective Arthur P. Dietrich in the ABC comedy, BARNEY MILLER, has died from cancer. He was 65. Landesberg was also well known for his extensive voice-over work as well. His voice was one of the most recognizable in TV history, although not everyone immediately recognized the actor behind the work.

BARNEY MILLER was one of the greatest comedy series successes for ABC, and ran for eight seasons from January 23, 1975 until May 20, 1982. Few mid-season replacement shows have been as successful as BARNEY MILLER was. The show's success even spurred a spin-off series named after the character Detective Sgt. Philip K. Fish(Abe Vigoda). FISH ran for two seasons. At the age of 89, Abe Vigoda continues to be the oldest surviving cast member of this show, and was popular for numerous comic appearances on Conan O'Brien's old 12:35 comedy talk show.

Steve Landesberg leaves us laughing with this great quote: "Honesty is the best policy, but insanity is a better defense".