Martin Mull, a versatile actor, comedian, and musician, passed away on Thursday at the age of 80 after a long illness. Born in Chicago in 1943, Mull’s artistic journey began with painting, earning degrees from the Rhode Island School of Design.
He discovered his talents for music and comedy while funding his art studies, leading to a record deal and Grammy nominations for his comedy albums.
Mull’s breakthrough role came in the 1970s with the satirical soap opera “Mary Hartman, Mary Hartman,” followed by the spin-off talk show parody “Fernwood 2 Night.”
He appeared in numerous shows and movies, including “Clue,” “Roseanne,” “Sabrina the Teenage Witch,” and “Arrested Development,” where he played the memorable Gene Parmesan.
Despite his busy schedule, Mull continued to pursue his passion for painting, stating, “I’ve been painting all along… this has been a way to try to put paint on my table.” Mull’s unique blend of humor, wit, and deadpan delivery made him a beloved figure in the entertainment industry.
He is survived by his wife, Wendy Haas, and daughter, TV writer Maggie, who announced his death on Instagram, praising his creativity, humor, and kindness.
Mull’s legacy will be deeply missed by his family, friends, and fellow artists, but his impact on the world of comedy and art will continue to be celebrated.