22-05-2025
Beloved Cheers and Space Jam actor Michael Alaimo dies aged 86
Michael Alaimo, a seasoned character actor whose screen and stage career spanned more than sixty years, has died at the age of 86.
His daughter, Gabriella Alaimo Thomas, confirmed his death, noting he passed away peacefully on May 2 in Burbank, California. No cause of death was disclosed.
Alaimo built a long, varied résumé in Hollywood, marked by memorable turns in film, television, and theater.
Though never a household name, he became a familiar face to generations of viewers, thanks to a steady stream of supporting roles.
One of his most widely seen performances came in the 1996 cult hit Space Jam, where he appeared opposite Michael Jordan as the team doctor.
Earlier in his career, Alaimo had roles in socially resonant films like The China Syndrome (1979), a nuclear meltdown thriller that mirrored real-world anxieties.
He also worked on a variety of genre films in the late 1960s and early 70s, including Graffiti (1969) and Come Play with Me (1968), often appearing in low-budget, adult-oriented features that later developed cult followings.
On television, Alaimo made appearances on numerous iconic shows throughout the 1980s.
He guest-starred on Cheers in a 1985 episode titled 2 Good 2 Be 4 Real, playing the role of Vinnie Claussen. The appearance came during the show's acclaimed fourth season. More Trending
Other TV credits included Dynasty, Night Court, Hill Street Blues, ALF, Mr. Belvedere, and The Paper Chase.
He also played Mr. Radford on Scrubs in 2004, along with parts on The Drew Carey Show in 1997 and The Wonder Years in 1992.
Alaimo also appeared in films including the 1989 Tony Danza comedy She's Out of Control and 1983's Mr. Mom, which starred Michael Keaton and the late Teri Garr.
The actor is survived by his wife Louise; daughters Gabriella and Giovanna; son-in-law David; and granddaughters Isabella and Malia.
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