‘My Big Fat Greek Wedding’ star Michael Constantine dies age 94

American actor Michael Constantine, best known for his portrayal of Gus Portokalos in My Big Fat Greek Wedding, has died. He was 94.

Constantine’s agent confirmed the news to Variety, revealing the much-loved actor died on August 31 in his Pennsylvania home surrounded by family after being ill for several years.

While people probably best remember him as the Windex-crazed father in the My Big Fat Greek Wedding movies, Constantine also made a name for himself as school principal Mr. Seymour Kaufman in the television series Room 222, which he went on to win an Emmy for. The TV series ran for five years (1969 to 1974). Other films Constantine was in included The Untouchables, The Last Mile, The Hustler and Voyage of the Damned, just to name a few.

My Greek Fat Wedding star Nia Vardalos was one of the first to pay tribute to the late actor, writing on Twitter: “Michael Constantine, the dad to our cast-family, a gift to the written word, and always a friend. Acting with him came with a rush of love and fun. I will treasure this man who brought Gus to life. He gave us so much laughter and deserves a rest now. We love you Michael.”

Michael Constantine, the dad to our cast-family, a gift to the written word, and always a friend. Acting with him came with a rush of love and fun. I will treasure this man who brought Gus to life. He gave us so much laughter and deserves a rest now. We love you Michael. ???????? pic.twitter.com/PV0sIBtaUX

— Nia Vardalos (@NiaVardalos) September 9, 2021

She later commented: “Michael Constantine as “Gus” and my real dad Constantine “Gus” Vardalos, onset #MyBigFatGreekWedding2. May both dads Rest In Peace.”

Michael Constantine as “Gus” and my real dad Constantine “Gus” Vardalos, onset #MyBigFatGreekWedding2. May both dads Rest In Peace ♥️♥️ pic.twitter.com/PZn6oF2auT

— Nia Vardalos (@NiaVardalos) September 9, 2021

Meanwhile, Twitter user @mariastephanos humorously wrote: “I love this movie. I love this character and I loved Michael Constantine. He passed at the age of 94. I will spritz some windex in your honour.”