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Bruno Kirby Obituary
Kirby died Monday in Los Angeles from complications related to leukemia, according to a statement from his wife, Lynn Sellers. He had recently been diagnosed with the disease.
"We are incredibly grateful for the outpouring of support we have received from Bruno's fans and colleagues who have admired and respected his work over the past 30 years," his wife said. "Bruno's spirit will continue to live on not only in his rich body of film and television work but also through the lives of individuals he has touched throughout his life."
Kirby was perhaps best known for his roles opposite Billy Crystal in 1989's "When Harry Met Sally" and 1991's "City Slickers."
Other film credits included "Good Morning, Vietnam," "The Godfather: Part II" and "Donnie Brasco." More recently, he played Phil Rubenstein on the HBO series "Entourage."
Copyright © 2006 The Associated Press
296 Entries
J Worden
April 9, 2023
A great actor! I adored both Bruno and his dad from the Columbo days. You are truly missed. God rest your soul.
J Worden
J Worden
April 9, 2023
A great actor! I adored both Bruno and his dad from the Columbo days. You are truly missed. ❤ God rest your soul.
J Worden
J Worden
April 9, 2023
A great actor! I adored both Bruno and his dad from the Columbo days. You are truly missed. ❤ God rest your soul.
J Worden
Lorie Mullins
January 26, 2021
He was very talented in all of his roles, but I liked him best in The Freshman.
How you can show support
Sandy Yip
January 16, 2021
I recognized his well-known voice as Marco on Frazier last night. Gone but certainly not forgotten.
April 13, 2020
Farewell until we see you in heaven later much later .
Marja Reeves
February 17, 2020
Watching Godfather 1....you were excellent....
gone toooo soon...sorry
Randy Posten
June 9, 2019
He was a joy to watch in every part he played. Always an entertaining guest on talk shows. I especially enjoyed him as Clemenza in Godfather 2.
Had hoped that when Peter Falk retired, Bruno Kirby would take his place. He would have made a perfect Lt. Columbo.
-Randy Posten
Burbank, CA
Steve Ashley
May 29, 2018
A great personality. So sorry to learn of his passing. My condolences to Bruno's family. God Bless
Deborahnemoyten Nemo
May 16, 2018
Rest peacefully
Sheila Baker
January 27, 2018
The Freshman. My favorite movie made so because of Bruno. Still miss him, his talent, his contribution to the entertainment world. RIP.
September 16, 2017
Bruno was such a talented actor that it makes me feel that I know him. Rest in blessed peace.
Sandra Russo-Moore
August 8, 2017
Dear family and friends of Bruno Kirby
I would like to send you my deepest condolences of his passing. I remember his early work before he did City Slickers and When Harry Met Sally just to name a couple movies in his great body of work. He sure was a scene stealer. You just couldn't help but notice him. He did it in such a subtle way, yet I thought he was powerful in those scenes. He will be greatly missed by all who knew him personally and for the legacy he left us of his movies. Even though time has moved on since his passing, I will keep you all in my prayers and thoughts, and, of course, especially Mr. Kirby. Share your beautiful, sweet memories of him and hold each other dear to your hearts.
M
August 5, 2017
For Bruce & Family's. im deeply sorry . This Man was remarkable I liked him in City Slicker s wow what a great Movie. All my Prayers I do meen that. It's not esey when TV Show Actors Actress even Movie Actress & Actors pass on. Most of them made me cry when they do pass away. It's not the Money or Fame it's the People inside I rely look up too. I'm very sorry.
John Y.
October 29, 2016
Am watching - for the umpteenth time - "City
slickers." Coincidentally, recalling a show that was on just a day or two ago, on which Billy Crystal was talking about working with Bruno Kirby, and how much he (Kirby) brought to his roles. And how! What a delight he's been in such comdedies!
Also remembering him all the way back to his days on M*A*S*H, Columbo, Hill Street Blues. (He was practically a kid back then!) Yep, he was memorable enough to stand out in my memory for even his relatively small roles in series such as those.
I have no idea if he happened to also be a good guy in general, off the screen - - but I sure as hell enjoyed his enteraining ON the screen.
Thanks Bruno Kirby. Condolences - these many years later - to your family. For what it's worth, I share the sense of loss that leukemia has imposed on those of us who remain. But at least you left behind a helluva legacy, one that makes people feel good. And that's a pretty damned good thing.
Carol
October 19, 2016
I always loved your work, and I always enjoyed you on talk shows like David Letterman, Tom Snyder etc. you were always entertaining just as you.
You seemed like a great guy, you were taken much too soon.
A fan for always,
Jerrod Darby
June 21, 2016
Bruno you were a great source of laughter and joy when I needed it, thankyou!!!
Tony santone
April 9, 2016
Thank for making us laugh. My condolences to the family.
Allison Dupont
March 8, 2016
Never forgotten, Rest in Peace sir.
March 6, 2016
His work in Godfather 2 was incredible. He stole some scenes from De Niro. Totally immersed and embedded in the character. Will always be one of my favorites.
Tom Moon
February 17, 2016
RIP Bruno. I enjoyed watching you perform in movie's and tv.
January 31, 2016
Thanks Bruno
Mark
James Hay
November 10, 2015
Thank You Bruno For All Of The Joy And Happiness That You Gave All Of Us.You will Never Be Forgotten And the The Time That You Spent with All Of Us Will Be Forever Cherished.May You Rest In Eternal Peace. Farewell Bruno My Friend.
James Cox
September 22, 2015
All though myself have been given the privilege to see your outstanding enchantments as an actor, it's saddening to know that you left to soon. Thank you for the time you have given us and that you will be always remembered.
Harry Simpson
August 14, 2015
Thank you for sharing a part of your life with us.
Loomis Mayfield
April 15, 2015
Such a wonderful character actor. I was saddened when he died, and I am still sad we lost all those coming great performances he would have done.
Will
February 25, 2015
Thanks Bruno
Paul Bogush jr.
December 27, 2014
Great job.
Susan
December 21, 2014
Watching you and your amazing craft of acting was a privilege. So sorry you left us so soon.
A.F. Campise
August 14, 2014
. . .never knowing you personally except for the fact that we share the same birth date.
Karon Fowler
December 10, 2013
My deepest sympathy to Kirby Family, Bruno was a wonderful actor in the film called "When Harry Meet Sally".
God Bless You And Rest In Peace
Karon Fowler, AUSTRALIA
December 3, 2013
A wonderful human being...loved you in One Eyed King...It's true the good do die young....Everytime i see you in a movie I SAY " yea there's Bruno Kirby'!!...You always reminded me of a cousin from Brooklyn...God Bless Your Italian Heart...Linda Cecchino...Las Vegas, NV
Paul Morgana
November 29, 2013
I jusy watched Godfather II, When Harry Met Sally and City Slickers all in a unison. Hollywood is a better place with your contributions. Have a good rest.
November 13, 2013
Brian Cox
Pat` Onderdonk
November 5, 2013
I was aware of your passing, but it still hurts. You were an amazing actor and I'm sure a wonderful husband. My thoughts will always be with you and your wife.
M. Sacco
July 12, 2013
Loved you Bruno, Thanks for all the joy you brought us, your fans.
Gone to soon!
Michael Sacco, NY
Katie Charles
May 9, 2013
So sorry to hear of Burno Kirbys
death. A truly giftted actor. A great loss.
Sherry Chapman
November 23, 2012
Very sorry to hear of Mr. Kirby's death. I noticed him very early in his career, instantly liked him, and I tried to watch everything he was in. He was different and an excellent performer. Rest in peace.
bob lester
August 14, 2012
Loss of another great one.
Dana Campbell
December 26, 2010
You were so unique and wonderful. We miss you so much. I loved everything you ever did in movies. God Bless you and Rest in Peace.
jim chisholm
November 19, 2010
NOV,19/10 "So sorry about Bruno's passing.Loved his abilities in front of the camera.I only wish I could see pages of kind words from many in the industry; in which he worked. Instead of those of us who frequent 'BLOCKBUSTER'....so sad.
...Jim Chisholm...Sarnia,Ontario....
March 24, 2010
Jo Larzelere, Flint, MI
March 18, 2010
For Kirby...
WEEP NOT FOR ME
Do not weep for me when I no longer dwell among the wonders of the earth; for my larger self is free, and my soul rejoices on the other side of pain...on the other side of darkness.
Do not weep for me, for I am a ray of sunshine that touches your skin, a tropical breeze upon your face, the hush of joy within your heart and the innocence of babes in mothers arms.
I am the hope in a darkened night. And, in your hour of need, I will be there to comfort you. I will share your tears, your joys, your fears, your disappointments and your triumphs.
Do not weep for me, for I am cradled
in the arms of God. I walk with the angels, and hear the music beyond the stars.
Do not weep for me, for I am within you;
I am peace, love, I am a soft wind that caresses the flowers. I am the calm that follows a raging storm. I am an autumns leaf that floats among the garden of God, and I am pure white snow that softly falls upon your hand.
Do not weep for me, for I shall never die, as long as you remember me...
with a smile and a sigh.
© Joe Fazio
~
[email protected] /Joe Fazio,
Beverly Hills, California
James Baker
August 17, 2008
My sympathy to the family of Bruno Kirby. He was a magnificent and funny actor and always made me laugh. A true great from my generation was too young to lose....I am saddened and my thoughts and prayers are with you all. I will continue to enjoy Bruno's legacy and great acting through his movies... Kirby always played opposite of Crystal wonderfully!!!
D. MONTEIRO
March 3, 2007
I WAS STUNNED WHEN BRUNO'S PHOTO FLASH ON SCREEN @ THE AAS! I SHALL CONTINUE VIA RE-RUNS TO ENJOY HIS BODY OF WORK. MY CONDOLENCES TO HIS FAMILY, FRIENDS & COLLEAGUES.
Raul Martinez
February 25, 2007
So sorry to hear about his passing. So full of life. Such a handsome guy. It was a pleasure to see him on the screen. My deepest condolences.
Joe Malley
January 29, 2007
My sympathy to his family. He was a very funny actor and always made me laugh. I can't think of anything better to say about a person who has such a special gift.
God Bless
Laura Einstein
January 21, 2007
We will miss Bruno Kirby. My son and I watched City Slickers last night - - what a lovable guy! He was like a neighbor next door - - an old friend.
Laura, Peter and Hannah Einstein
Moe Rovan
December 23, 2006
God will take care of Bruno Kirby now. In Heaven Bruno Kirby will live forever and ever.
Juliette Kent
November 11, 2006
Gone from sight but FOREVER in our Hearts! You are loved and remembered with joy.
Karsten and Claudia Becker
September 22, 2006
We will miss you, we will remember you.
Chris Anderson
August 24, 2006
I believe he'll be remembered as one of the all time great character actors; his voice alone distinguishes him immediately onscreen. I believe a true great from my generation and way too young to lose....
My favorite movies of his: The Freshman, foremost, and Good Morning, Vietnam.
My best to the family.
Christine Lombardi
August 23, 2006
After losing my brother within the last year to this horrible disease, I wish to express my deepest sympathies to the Kirby family. I enjoyed Mr. Kirby's work over the years and he will be fondly remembered always.
Deborah Doyle
August 22, 2006
My husband and I were saddened when we heard the news. Our thoughts and prayers are with you all. We will continue to enjoy Bruno's legacy and great acting through his movies...
Becky
August 21, 2006
To the family of Bruno Kirby! I dearly loved the part in "When Harry Met Sally" when they were playing Serades, and he was trying to guess Sally clues and his answer was "Baby Fishmouth!! Baby Fishmouth!!". And I can never figure out why he acted like he hated the character Sally. Except maybe he was afraid of loosing Harry for his friend. Yes he played his character Jess very well. Also the part with the wagonwheel coffeetable. That was sooo! very funny, especially when his girlfriend Marie said"I promise I will never want that coffeetable!! He will be a great loss!!
Becky from Michigan
Frank Domiano
August 20, 2006
I have been a fan for a long time.I'm saddened by Mr. Kirby's passing. My sympathies.
Judy Cowart
August 20, 2006
What A Voice! When I see That face,I will remember that! Wonderful films and memories!Blessings!
jim manijak
August 20, 2006
to the bruno family my deepest sympathy for your loss allways remember the great imes you had and how he made you laugh and cry those moments are the most important.sincerly jim m. from mass
Darlene Ridgway
August 20, 2006
Bruno was a really great actor.His comedy as an actor will be greatly missed.
VICKIE LUCERO
August 20, 2006
YOU WENT FROM THE BIG SCREEN TO A BIGGER, BETTER SCREEN!
mikie Laporte
August 20, 2006
ill miss you . you made me laughf. and sometimes cry. you my friend were a true actor .so beliveable. god bless bruno. mikie
Edmund Singleton
August 20, 2006
I miss you already...
David Merrill
August 20, 2006
Bruno Kirby was a very talented and funny actor. I have enjoyed his films for years and will continue to do so. May the Lord bless & keep his family & friends who share this terrible loss. We can all be thankful that he is no longer suffering. Bruno Kirby...you will be sorely missed.
Peter Wall
August 20, 2006
Young Clemenza in Godfather II acting like he wasn't stealing that carpet. That's one I'll always remember. Even when the character he played was intended to be a bit of a jerk, he still managed to make him likable. Who else could have pulled off that "Lt. Steve/Frenchie" bit in 'Good Morning Vietnam'? He always conveyed a realistic sincerity in his work and that's something you simply can't fake. While extending my condolences to Mr Kirby's family for their loss, I'd like to point out that the legacy he has left behind will live on for a great many years. I've just rented Godfather II and City Slickers (again) to watch with my daughters this weekend. So long Bruno and thanks.
Yony Lordi
August 20, 2006
Bruno,
You are without a doubt a legend and Billy Crystal & I both know that. Rest in Peace my Friend you are now with the city of angels.
NANCY HERMANN
August 20, 2006
Take comfort in knowing that now you have a special guardian angel to watch over you.
brenda inks
August 19, 2006
i am very sadden that he has passed away. he will be very much missed. he was wonderfull in all his movies, a great and talented actor.
Sharon Tracy
August 19, 2006
I am so sorry to hear of Bruno's passing, my mother just passed July 24th so maybe they are together.
Lisa Nickerson
August 19, 2006
My deepest sympathy to the Kirby Family,
Bruno was a great actor. He will be deeply missed.
You are in my thoughts and prayers.
Lisa
gerald boulette
August 19, 2006
for whom i knew to be a great actor and to loose him so soon,my prayers are with the family
linda Barrie-Thompson
August 19, 2006
May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.He touched all that saw him as an Fine Actor
MIKE MERNS
August 19, 2006
A SADDENED FAN..
judy y
August 19, 2006
You will always be missed..God bless the Kirby family in thier sorrow...
Kathy Brown
August 19, 2006
Be Still
Be still like the grass on a melancholy summer day
Be still like desert shrub.
Be calm and you will hear your loved one speak, in the stillness, in the calm, their love resounds.
If you are still this promise I make, you will hear the voice of your loved one helping you along your way.
Scott Nutter
August 19, 2006
A great talent and a great man. Thanks for all that you've given, you will be missed.
wyndye
August 19, 2006
seems trivial really..signing his book when i didnt even know him. but i figured what the heck...i enjoyed his films and he made me laugh...i will miss seeing what else he could do.
Toy Williams
August 19, 2006
May God bless and keep the Kirby Family.
Tom Dorn
August 19, 2006
A natural for the "Ricky" role in Donnie Brasco.
tina b
August 19, 2006
Not to be forgotten - loved and cherished always. Thank you for entertaining the world. God bless you.
Kerry Burrows
August 19, 2006
We were so saddened to hear of Bruno Kirby's death. We have enjoyed watching him in movies for years. He was truly a talented actor. Our thoughts and prayers go out to his family and friends. May God bless you and comfort you during this time of grief. Sincerely,
Jack Daley
August 19, 2006
Bruno the Star! I believe, "Good Morning Viet Nam," was the first movie I enjoyed Bruno in. Being a Viet Nam Veteran myself, I was really able to relate but the young Lt. or maybe it was Ensign, that Bruno played, just got me started on realizing what a true talent he really was. What a great role he played. So disappointed and truly saddened that your life was cut so short but I do know that God has His reasons of which we will never understand while on this earth. My sincerest condolences go out to the Kirby family, and I fully realize what great pride you had in his talents. For me personally, it was how you could make me laugh and really lift me up and make my day!
Rest in Peace Bruno and hopefully, we will meet after my last days on earth. You were too young to part our midst and you will be truly missed by all. Sincerest sympathy and God Bless to the whole Kirby family.
Roscoe Peace
August 19, 2006
Bruno, see you on the other side my friend. What a stage it must be over there now with you there! It's hard for all us down here missing you! So until we all join you, Smile down on us sometime and we'll feel it with the Wind, and see it with the Sun!
Tea Bryant
August 19, 2006
We remember him as an actor in "City Slickers" and "When Harry Met Sally." He was great and will be missed. We would like to send condolences to all family and friends.
Your movie fans:
Janine and Tea
Alan B.
August 19, 2006
Last night I saw city slickers for the first time. Bruno was a very gifted actor. Incredible..now i checked my local paper online(I am away)and he just died. What a loss.
Karoline
August 19, 2006
My thoughts and prayers go to the Kirby family. It's hard to get past the loss of someone so young. This young man gave his talant to make all of us laugh even at the worst times as he did with his character in City Slickers. He showed you can make lemonade out of lemons. As hard as it sounds, we should celebrate his life rather than his passing.
boo riley
August 19, 2006
such a wonderful man with incredible talent. my thoughts & prayers are with the entire Bruno family.
Judy
August 19, 2006
My thoughts and prayers for his family - a funny man who will be missed by many...thoroughly enjoyed all his roles!
Linda Adams
August 18, 2006
He will be greatly missed! My husband & I very much enjoyed his acting, and will continue to watch the shows he was in!!! :-)
My thoughts are with all of his family!
a fan
August 18, 2006
My prayers go out to Mr. Kirby's family during this difficult time. I always enjoyed Bruno's work. I was never disappointed with any film he was in. Be comforted in knowing he is in a better place without pain or grief.
Gail Monpere
August 18, 2006
Bruno brought much needed joy to so many people. He was a brilliant
actor and all those who love film are aware of the loss we have suffered. I wish he were still here bringing laughter to his family and to those of us who loved to watch him.
martie loretta
August 18, 2006
to the family of mr.kirby he was aterrific actor and will be sadly missed by all.He was one of the best. Our prayers are with you and God bless
Perry Barber
August 18, 2006
I didn't know him personally, but I did admire him as an actor and a person I would have like to have said was my friend. His personallity was one which was like the guy at church or at a social that everyone liked and enjoyed being around. He will be missed in the rolls that I know he would have given his talents to.
My prayers are with his wife and family. May God bless you all.
Sharon Rogers
August 18, 2006
To the family of Bruno,
Know that your loved one is in a better place now. He is no longer suffering from his illness. He is healthy and happy living in Heaven with the ones who went before him.
I lost my daughter on June 15th to Diabetes. The pain will never go away for me as I know it won't for you.
Just remember Bruno is in a much better place.
You are in my prayers.
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