‘Seinfeld’ actress Estelle Harris dies, aged 93

Iconic Seinfeld actress, Estelle Harris, who played the character of Mrs Costanza in the popular TV sitcom has passed away, aged 93.

Harris’s son, Glen Harris, confirmed the actress had passed away on Saturday night, April 2, reportedly as a result of natural causes.

“It is with the greatest remorse and sadness to announce that Estelle Harris has passed on this evening at 6:25pm,” announced Glen in a statement to The Hollywood Reporter.

Glen paid tribute to his mother’s legacy, admitting she would be “terribly missed” by family, friends and fans alike.

“Her kindness, passion, sensitivity, humour, empathy and love were practically unrivalled, and she will be terribly missed by all those who knew her,” Glen said.

 

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Harris featured in less than 3o episodes during her time on Seinfeld as Mrs Constanza, between 1992 and 1998.

Harris’s portrayal of Mrs Costanza is arguably her most famous TV role, made popular by her character’s melodramatic personality, high-pitched, shrill voice and regular ridiculous squabbles with son George and husband Frank.

Jason Alexander, who played the role of George Costanza, took to Twitter on Sunday, April 3, to pay respects to his “tv mama”.

One of my favorite people has passed – my tv mama, Estelle Harris. The joy of playing with her and relishing her glorious laughter was a treat. I adore you, Estelle. Love to your family. Serenity now and always. #RIPEstelleHarris

— jason alexander (@IJasonAlexander) April 3, 2022

In an interview with The Things in January 2022, Harris revealed fans still yelled Seinfeld catchphrases at her regularly.

“They yell [them] at me and I laugh and wave as I’m glad that they still remember and love the character. I don’t take it personally. Because I played a character that was written for me and the writing was wonderful,” Harris candidly admitted.

Throughout Harris’s career, the actress scored a number of esteemed voice over roles, including her iconic portrayal of Mrs. Potato Head in the popular Toy Story film series. The actress also featured in multiple cartoon films and series including Tarzan II, The Family Guy, Mickey Mouse Works, Futurama and Kim Possible. Some of her more popular film and TV appearances include her role as Peggy’s mother in Sergio Leone’s epic gangster film Once Upon a Time in America (1984) and her role as a nagging mother in comedy-drama series Mad About You (1992).

Harris’s other credits include appearances on the US sitcom series Married… With Children and crime series Law & Order, as well as a number of other films, series and commercial roles.