Jerry Stiller death: Tributes paid to ‘amazing, unique and hilarious’ Seinfeld actor

Late actor was described as ‘a legend’ and ‘one of the funniest comedians ever’

Tributes have poured in for the actor and comedian Jerry Stiller, following his death from natural causes at the age of 92.

Stiller, who is the father of the actor Ben Stiller, was best known for his role as the irascible Frank Costanza on the hit sitcom Seinfeld, and for playing Arthur Spooner in King of Queens.

His son wrote on Twitter: “He was a great dad and grandfather, and the most dedicated husband to Anne for about 62 years. He will be greatly missed. Love you Dad.”

Others have also taken to the internet to voice their grief and condolences at Stiller’s passing.

Jason Alexander, who played George Costanza, Frank's son, on Seinfeld, wrote: "Such sad news that my beloved friend, Jerry Stiller, has passed. He was perhaps the kindest man I ever had the honor to work beside. He made me laugh when I was a child and every day I was with him. A great actor, a great man, a lovely friend."

Julia Louis-Dreyfus, who played Elaine, also expressed her sadness: "He was so funny and such a dear human being. We loved him. RIP Jerry Stiller."

Comedian Chris Addison wrote: “Jerry Stiller! Oh man. I don’t think I watched anything in my life more often than this clip of him making it impossible for [Seinfeld co-star Julia Louis-Dreyfus] to go on. @carloscooperos and I used to watch it when we were writing. A legend.”

Singer-songwriter Darren Hayes, of Savage Garden fame, wrote: “I absolutely adored the work of Jerry Stiller. One of the funniest comedians ever, stole every scene he was in – not a single project that didn’t get better simply for having him in it. I’m so grateful for all he gave.”

Al Jezeera presenter Mehdi Hasan described his performance in Seinfeld as “amazing, unique and hilarious”.

Stiller’s character in Seinfeld was the father of George, played by Alexander. Fans of the series forever associate the character with his catchphrase, “serenity now!”, a declaration of inner peace which is uttered by Stiller in increasing states of anger and frustration.