Don Rickles has sadly passed away aged 90. The star, who was an honorary member of the Rat Pack and voiced Mr Potato Head in the Toy Story franchise, died at his home in L.A. on Thursday after suffering from kidney failure. The New York-born star had recently celebrated his 52nd wedding anniversary with his wife, Barbara, and had a daughter and two grandchildren.
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© Photo: Getty ImagesDon passed away aged 90
Tributes from Don's friends, family and fans have poured in, with Samuel L. Jackson writing: "Farewell to a comedic legend & dear friend, Don Rickles. I know you're cracking them up in the Great Beyond!" Don's Toy Story co-star Tom Hanks tweeted: "A God died today. Don Rickles, we did not want to ever lose you. Never. Hanx," while Barbra Streisand wrote: "Being skewered by Don Rickles was side-splitting funny. A gentle soul with rapid fire wit."
Don was well known for his "mockery humour", where he would put down people while always being playful, which earned him the nickname "Mr Warmth". The star had previously spoke about his comedy, explain: "I think the reason that caught on and gave me a wonderful career is that I was never mean-spirited. Not that you had to like it, but you had to be under a rock somewhere not to get it." One such story includes an incident when Frank Sinatra attended one of his shows, and Don joked: "Hey, Frank, make yourself at home. Hit somebody," to the legendary singer's amusement.
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Jimmy Kimmel also paid an emotional tribute to the star on his talk show, telling the audience: "I'll tell you right up front that I'm going to cry… I know it sounds crazy to say he was too young, but he was. Because he was youthful and funny and sharp and generous. I was fortunate enough to not only have Don on this show as my guest, but also to become close to him and his wife, Barbara, which was a lot of fun for me."
