Best known for playing the bemused Commandant Eric Lassard in seven Police Academy films

George Gaynes, the actor who played the absentminded Commandant Eric Lassard in all seven Police Academy films, has died according to multiple reports. He was 98.

Gaynes was also known for playing Henry Warnimont on the NBC series Punky Brewster and mob boss as Frank Smith on General Hospital, as well his stage work.

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Variety reports that the actor died on Monday in North Bend, Washington.

Punky Brewster star Soleil Moon Frye honored Gaynes, who played her foster parent on the show, with a sweet tweet.

“The universe just gained a gigantic star,” she wrote. “You will be in my heart and soul always & forever.”

The character actor had starred in 35 films as well as a string of successful television roles, and while he may not have reached superstardom his face is recognized by a generation who have loved his work. He won high praise for his role in Tootsie as the actor with the crush on Dustin Hoffman’s female alter ego.

Gaynes is survived by his wife Allyn Ann McLerie, an actress, their daughter Iya Gaynes Falcone Brown, one granddaughter and two great-granddaughters.