Huddleston, the character actor most famously known for the titular role in The Big Lebowski died Tuesday at 85 of heart and kidney disease in Santa Fe, New Mexico.
Huddleston’s character in the 1998 The Big Lebowski epitomized the types of characters he was known for — big dons or tempestuous men. Although he is in only a few scenes in the film, he crosses paths with Jeff Bridges’ Lebowski character, aka “The Dude,” after a group of gang members attack “The Dude” mistaking him for Huddleston’s millionaire Lebowski.
Though the film, directed by Joel and Ethan Coen, was not a hit when it first premiered, it has since become a huge cult sensation with a devoted fan base.
His wife told the L.A. Times that he considered his “crowning achievement” to be the role of Benajmin Franklin in the 1998 Broadway production of “1776” and in Washington, D.C. in 2003.
Huddleston served more than 10 years on the Screen Actors Guild’s national board. He was elected to multi-year terms in 1976, 1982, 2000, and 2004. He was also a member of the SAG Hollywood division’s board.
“David Huddleston was a uniquely gifted actor and a proud unionist,” said SAG-AFTRA President Gabrielle Carteris. “He will be forever remembered for his service to our union and the countless characters he brought to life on screen. Our deepest condolences go out to his family and loved ones.”
