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Actor Dom DeLuise Dead at 75

Appeared in Cannonball Run , Space Balls

By Matt Cantor, Newser Staff

Posted May 5, 2009 12:10 PM CDT

(Newser) – Actor Dom DeLuise died in his sleep last night at a Los Angeles hospital, TMZ reports. He was 75. The Golden-Globe nominated actor was known for appearances in Mel Brooks films and often worked with Burt Reynolds. He starred in Cannonball Run and Blazing Saddles and voiced Pizza the Hutt in Spaceballs. His son confirmed the news to KTLA-TV, saying DeLuise died peacefully among family.

[Images (3)]

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In this 1989 file photo, actor and comedian Dom DeLuise is shown. DeLuise died in Southern California last night, according to his son, Michael DeLuise. He was 75. (AP Photo)

In this 1987 file photo, actor and comedian Dom DeLuise is shown. (AP Photo)

In this 1985 file photo, actor Dom DeLuise points to his star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. (AP Photo)

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A recent interview with DeLuise. (YouTube)

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Actor Dom DeLuise Dead at 75