(ABC)
Alex Karras has died at 77.
The former football star turned actor passed away on Wednesday due to kidney failure.
“After a heroic fight with kidney disease, heart disease, dementia and for the last two years, stomach cancer,” Karras succumbed to his illnesses, a family spokesman said.
Karras’ declining health was revealed on Monday, when it was announced he was in hospice care and given just days to live.
The NFL star started his professional career in 1958, going on to play with the Detroit Lions on and off until 1970.
His on-the-field accomplishments include playing in four Pro Bowls, and making the 1960s All-Decade NFL team.
Karras went on to appear in both film (Blazing Saddles) and television (“M*A*S*H”), but is best known for his role as George Papadopoulos on “Webster.”
Suffering from dementia in recent years, Karras was among a number of former athletes to sue the NFL earlier this year over head injuries suffered during games.
Karras is survived by his wife, actress Susan Clark (who also starred on “Webster”), and their children.
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