Michael Alaimo has died aged 86
The 'Space Jam' actor - who also had roles in the likes of 'The China Syndrome', 'Scrubs' and 'The Wonder Years' - is said to have "passed away peacefully" on May 2
23 May 2025
His daughter Gabriella Alaimo Thomas - who works as a TV PR and communications ex ecutive - confirmed the sad news to Variety.
A cause of death has not been disclosed.
He is survived by his wife Louise, daughters Gabriella and Giovanni, his son-in-law David, and granddaughters Isabella and Malia.
His most high profile roles included playing a doctor opposite Michael Jordan in 1996 'Looney Tunes' comedy film 'Space Jam', while he appeared with Jane Fonda, Jack Lemmon and Michael Douglas in 1979's 'The China Syndrome'.
He also made a guest appearance in the '2 Good " Be 4 Real' episode in the fourth season of 'Cheers' as a character called Vinnie Claussen.
His early credits included the likes of 'Come Play With Me' and 'Graffiti', while by the 1980s he was appearing in shows like 'ALF', 'Dynasty' and 'Mr. Belvedere'.
On the small screen, he appeared on 'The Wonder Years' in 1992 and 'The Drew Carey Show' five years later, while he also appeared as Mr. Radford in hospital sitcom 'Scrubs' in 2004.
And he also took on a range of film roles, from 1989 comedy 'She's Out of Control' with Tony Danza, to 1983's 'Mr. Mom' with Michael Keaton and Teri Garr.
His death comes just days after 'Cheers' fans mourned the death of George Wendt aged 76.
Wednt played beer-swilling Norm Peterson on the iconic NBC bar sitcom.
George's publicist confirmed the news of his passing on Tuesday (20.05.25) - describing him in a statement as "a doting family man, a well-loved friend and confidant to all of those lucky enough to have known him".
Ted Danson, who played 'Cheers' bartender Sam Malone, admitted he was "devastated" to hear of George's death.
He told PEOPLE: "I am sending all my love to Bernadette and the children.
"It is going to take me a long time to get used to this. I love you, Georgie."
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