Is the Cast of Laverne Shirley Still Alive in 2023?

Since the first-ever episode of Laverne Shirley aired on May 1, 1976, the show has become a cultural icon and a beloved part of television history. The characters and actors involved have left a lasting impact on the entertainment industry. However, as time has passed, the status of the main cast members has changed. In this article, we will explore which cast members are still alive and which have passed away.

Who Survived the Show?

Of the 9 main cast members of Laverne Shirley, the following actors are still alive as of the latest update. They have continued to stay active in various forms of entertainment and occasionally make public appearances to celebrate the show's legacy.

Michael McKean as Lenny Polacco: The character of Lenny, Laverne's husband, is one of the few surviving members of the original cast. McKean has also had a successful career as an actor and director in films and television. Gerard Wherry as Roy Harmon: Although not a part of the initial main cast, Roy Harmon’s character has been a consistent presence in the show's second season. Robert Kliger as Potsie Weber: Potsie, known for his energetic and comedic performances, has continued to be a significant character in the show until its end.

Who Passed Away?

Unfortunately, several cast members have passed away over the years, either from natural causes or accidents. Let's take a look at their legacies in the series.

Penny Marshall as Laverne DeFazio: Laverne DeFazio, played by Penny Marshall, passed away on December 17, 2018. Her character was the central figure of the show and her passing marked the end of an era for fans of the series.

Cindy Williams as Shirley Feeney: Shirley Feeney was the other main female character in the show, played by Cindy Williams. She passed away on January 25, 2023, leaving a significant void in the world of Laverne Shirley history.

Eddie Mekka as Carmine Ragusa: Carmine Ragusa, portrayed by Eddie Mekka, died on November 27, 2021. He was known for his energetic and comedic performances, often performing the character of Squiggy, which was originally designed for David L. Lander.

David L. Lander as Squiggy: David L. Lander, who originally played Squiggy, passed away on December 4, 2020. However, a significant note is that another actor who played Squiggy, Eddie Mekka, also died in 2021. This means that the character of Squiggy, when not played by Lander or Mekka, has been portrayed by other actors.

Phil Foster as Frank DiFazio: Frank DiFazio, played by Phil Foster, passed away in 1985, long before the show's popularity reached its peak.

Betty Garrett as Edna Babish: Edna Babish, portrayed by Betty Garrett, passed away in 2011, marking the end of another significant era in Laverne Shirley history.

Conclusion

In conclusion, while the main cast of Laverne Shirley has a rich history filled with memorable characters and a dedicated fanbase, the status of the cast members has varied over the years. As of this update, only a few of the original main cast members are still alive, while others have passed away, leaving behind a legacy that continues to thrive through renewed interest and rewatching.

For anyone interested in the legacy of Laverne Shirley, it is always a good idea to keep up with the latest updates and honor the memories of the actors who brought these beloved characters to life.