Lerner’s nephew announced the news.
Michael Lerner who featured in films such as Elf, X-Men: Days of Future Past and who received an Oscar nomination for his performance in Joel and Ethan Coen’s 1991 comedy Barton Fink, died Saturday evening. He was 81 years old.
Lerner’s nephew, The Goldbergs star Sam Lerner, announced the news in an Instagram post. The post stated:
“We lost a legend last night. It’s hard to put into words how brilliant my uncle Michael was, and how influential he was to me. His stories always inspired me and made me fall in love with acting. He was the coolest, most confident, talented guy, and the fact that he was my blood will always make me feel special. Everyone that knows him knows how insane he was— in the best way. I’m so lucky I got to spend so much time with him, and we’re all lucky we can continue to watch his work for the rest of time. RIP Michael, enjoy your unlimited Cuban cigars, comfy chairs and endless movie marathon.
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Lerner began his acting career in the 60’s, before hitting new heights after starring alongside John Turturro and John Goodman in the Coen brothers’ 1991 film Barton Fink. For his role as movie mogul Jack Lipnick he was nominated for a Best Supporting Actor award at the Oscars.
During the 90’s, Lerner’s star rose as he featured in films such as No Escape and Godzilla, where he played Mayor Ebert, a parody of the late film critic Roger Ebert.
Lerner featured in 2003’s comedy Elf, where he played Fulton Greenway, Walter Hobbs’ controlling boss. He also appeared as Senator Brickman in 2014 blockbuster X-Men: Days of Future Past. His TV credits feature the likes of Glee, Entourage Clueless and M*A*S*H.
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