Edd Byrnes, best known as Kookie on 77 Sunset Strip, dies aged 87

American actor Edd Byrnes, best known for roles in the likes of Grease (1987) and 1960s TV series 77 Sunset Strip, has passed away at the age of 87.

The actor’s son Logan Byrnes confirmed the news on Facebook on Thursday as he penned an emotional message, in which he described his late father as “an ambitious young kid who drove out to Hollywood in his 20’s … with a dream of making it big in the entertainment business”.

Edd did go on to make it big in the entertainment business and, in a career spanning five decades, he landed roles in huge Hollywood movies and countless TV hits, such as Charlie’s Angels (1981), Fantasy Island (1978-1982), Married With Children (1992) and Murder She Wrote (1990-95).

However it was his role as Kookie in 77 Sunset Strip that fans will best remember him for, along with his performance as smooth operator Vince Fontaine in hugely popular musical Grease.

“It is with profound sadness and grief to share with you the passing of my father Edd Byrnes,” Logan, who works as a news anchor in Los Angeles, said.

“His is the story of an ambitious young kid who drove out to Hollywood from New York City, in his 20’s with a few hundred dollars and a dream of making it big in the entertainment business.”

Logan added: “Edd died peacefully of natural causes at his home in Santa Monica, California at the age of 87.”

The actor leaves behind his son Logan, his former wife Asa Maynor, long time partner Cathrine Gross, and their beloved maltipoo Marlowe.