Lou Myers Dies, Remembered Fondly by 'A Different World' Co-Stars and Friends
Lou Myers, perhaps more well known as Mr. Gaines from "A Different World," has died at the age of 76. Myers had a long history in Hollywood and died leaving behind a legacy to be remembered.
Myers passed away after having a cardiac emergency and slipping into a coma, according to reports. He had been hospitalized for pneumonia in December, adding to his weakened immune system and ability to recover from further health problems.
Myers portrayed a grumpy old man who was always willing to dole out advice on NBC's spin-off series "A Different World." The series was a spin-off of "The Cosby Show" but quickly grew into its own and gathered its own fan base, especially after Lisa Bonet left the series she helped launch.
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"I LOVED THIS MAN!" co-star Sinbad tweeted upon hearing the news. Sinbad played the lovable goofball on the series.
"RIP Mr. Gains … Mr. Lou Myers was the sweetest kindest soul and will be deeply missed," added another co-star, Cree Summer. Her character went through a dramatic transformation from the hippie and somewhat scatter-brained to serious judge Freddie.
Myers was a native of West Virginia, and the state went to great pains to make sure the entire world knew where he came from. The Appalachian Education Initiative named him one of their 50 "Outstanding Creative Artists" from West Virginia and even featured him in their coffee-table book, "Art & Soul."
He was not just a Hollywood actor, though, and actually got his start on the Broadway play, "The First Breeze of Summer." Later, he won an NAACP Image Award for his portrayal of the Stool Pigeon in "King Hedley II."
Myers remained active throughout his life and starred in various movies including "How Stella Got Her Groove Back," "The Wedding Planner," and most recently, "Kings of the Evening."
Many have left messages on Twitter and Facebook telling of how Myers touched many lives throughout his career.
"Our prayers go out to Lou Myers co star on "Different World" playing Vernon Gaines boy did he give us a lot of laughs (RIP)," tweeted Tish Hall.
