Lew Parker Cause of Death: How the TV Legend Lost His Battle with Cancer

Who was Lew Parker?

Lew Parker was an American television, stage and musical theatre actor, best known for his role as Lew Marie, the father of Ann Marie (played by Marlo Thomas) on the 1960s sitcom That Girl. He was born in Brooklyn, New York, on October 29, 1907, as Austin Lewis Jacobs. He started his career in vaudeville, following his father’s footsteps, and later appeared in several Broadway shows, such as Girl Crazy, Red, Hot and Blue, and A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum. He also had guest roles on other TV shows, such as Gidget, F Troop, and The Ed Sullivan Show.

How did Lew Parker die?

Lew Parker died of cancer in New York City on October 27, 1972, just two days before his 65th birthday. He had been diagnosed with the disease in 1971, during the fifth and final season of That Girl. He continued to work on the show until the end, despite his deteriorating health. He was married to actress Betty Kean, who also died of cancer in 1986 .

What was Lew Parker’s legacy?

Lew Parker was widely admired for his comedic talent, his professionalism, and his warm personality. He was a mentor and a friend to many of his co-stars, especially Marlo Thomas, who considered him as a second father. He was also a pioneer in portraying a modern, supportive, and loving parent on TV, who respected his daughter’s independence and career choices. He received two Emmy nominations for his role as Lew Marie, and was honored with a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame in 1992. He is remembered as one of the TV legends who changed everything.