A Sad Christmas: 'Odd Couple' Star Jack Klugman Passes Away

Well-loved star of “The Odd Couple” Jack Klugman passed away Monday, Christmas Day. He was 90.

Klugman is best known for portraying messy sportswriter Oscar Madison beside Tony Randall in the classic comedy which ran from 1970 to 1975, but also played a medical examiner on “Quincy M.E.”

Klugman died at his home in Los Angeles following declining health. He was with his wife, Peggy Crosby, who he married at 85.

Son Adam Klugman reminds fans, “He had a great life and he enjoyed every moment of it, and he would encourage others to do the same.”

“He went very suddenly and peacefully… he was there one minute and gone the next.”

Adam says his father had been declining for a while now, and had been in “convalescent mode,” spending much of his time in bed, unable to walk.

Klugman was known for his zest for life, horses, and gambling. He and long-time onscreen partner, Randall, maintained a close friendship.

“A world without Tony Randall is a world that I cannot recognize,” he told CNN after Randall’s death in 2004.

The Emmy winner battled throat cancer in the 1980’s, which took away his signature raspy voice. Klugman taught himself to speak again after a long struggle.

Twitter was abuzz with the news.

"RIP Jack Klugman. You made my whole family laugh together," from Jon Favreau.

"He was a wonderful man and supremely talented actor. He will be missed,” from “New Girl” actor Max Greenfield.

Sincere condolences to all who knew and loved Klugman.