LOS ANGELES, Dec 14: ” Veteran actor Alan Thicke best known for playing the head of the Seaver family on the popular ABC sitcom “Growing Pains,” has died. He was 69.
Thicke’s manager confirmed the actor’s death, according to The Hollywood Reporter.
Thicke, who was the father of singer Robin Thicke, reportedly suffered a heart attack while playing hockey with his son Carter. He was taken to Providence St Joseph’s Medical Center in Burbank, California, where he died.
“Growing Pains” aired on ABC for seven seasons, from September 1985 to April 1992. Thicke played Jason Seaver, a psychiatrist who works from home. Joanna Kerns portrayed his wife and Kirk Cameron, Tracey Gold, Jeremy Miller and Ashley Johnson were their kids. In the last season, Leonardo DiCaprio appeared as a homeless teen who moves in with the family.
Born in Kirkland Lake, Ontario in 1947, Thicke attended the University of Western Ontario after graduating from secondary school. He hosted a game show, “First Impressions,” in Canada, as well as a talk show, “The Alan Thicke Show.”
Thicke also was a songwriter who composed the theme songs to sitcoms like “Hello,” “Larry; Diff’rent Strokes” and “The Facts of Life”. He also wrote for TV comedies including “The Paul Lynde Show,” “Fernwood 2 Night,” “America 2-Night” and “The Richard Pryor Show.”
The actor recently appeared on the Netflix sequel “Fuller House.”
Thicke is survived by his wife Tanya and sons Brennan, Carter and Robin.
Soon after the news broke many celebrities took to Twitter to remember their favourite star.
Fellow “Fuller House” star Bob Saget tweeted “So sad is the passing of Alan Thicke. Such a good husband, father, brother, and friend. He will be deeply missed. Rest in peace dear Alan.”
“I’m so sad to hear about the passing of Alan Thicke. RIP Alan,” wrote Lori Loughlin.
Ellen DeGeneres said,”America loved Alan Thicke. I’m so sad he’s gone. Sending so much love to his family.”
“Alan Thicke was always the nicest and happiest person in the room. Gone way too soon. Rest In Peace,” tweeted Alyssa Milano.
Larry King posted, “So sorry to hear of the passing of Alan Thicke. A wonderful talent, a wonderful man.”
“So so sad to hear about the passing of #AlanThicke. Such a nice guy. My thoughts and prayers are with his loved ones. Rest in love,” Olivia Munn wrote.
Demi Lovato tweeted, “Had the pleasure of meeting Alan Thicke and his amazing wife Tanya a few years back.. My thoughts and prayers are with his family. RIP”
His ex-daughter in law, Paula Patton, who was once married to his son Robin, posted a poem of remembrance attributed to Mother Theresa. (PTI)
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