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Actor Ronnie Schell, who was best known for his portrayal of the amiable Private Duke Slater from the ’60s CBS sitcom Gomer Pyle, U.S.M.C, has died at age 94.
His family announced his passing due to natural causes on Friday, June 12. According to ABC News, the actor had been hospitalized after a recent fall. “It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Ronnie Schell, who passed away peacefully in his sleep at the age of 94,” read a post on Schell’s official page on Facebook. “In a moment that feels both poignant and fitting, Ronnie chose to leave us on the birthday of his dear friend, Jim Nabors, a coincidence that would surely bring a smile to those who knew and loved them both.”
“For more than seven decades, Ronnie brought laughter, joy, and unforgettable characters to audiences around the world. His talent, kindness, and unmistakable spirit touched countless lives, both on and off the screen. While we mourn his loss, we are deeply grateful for the remarkable legacy he leaves behind and the memories he created for generations of fans,” continued the post. “Thank you, Ronnie, for the laughter, the friendship, and the memories. You will be greatly missed, but never forgotten.”
Born December 23, 1931, in Richmond, California, Schell portrayed Marine private Duke Slater, best buddy to Gomer Pyle on The Andy Griffith Show spinoff show, Gomer Pyle, U.S.M.C. The actor left the series during Season 4 to star in his own sitcom, Good Morning World, before he returned to Gomer for its fifth and final season.
His other TV credits include the character Harvey Peck on Marlo Thomas‘ That Girl, as well as The Andy Griffith Show, The Patty Duke Show, Phil of the Future, The Love Boat, Charlie’s Angels, and Happy Days, just to name a few.
In addition to his TV work, Schell also starred in Disney live-action classics, including Gus, The Shaggy D.A., and The Devil and Max Devlin, as well as lent his voice to animated efforts such as Shirt Tales, Smurfs, and Goober and the Ghost Chasers.
Schell is survived by his wife Janet, his two sons, and his granddaughter.
