Actor Lou Myers, best known for his role as restaurant owner Mr. Gaines on the popular 80’s/90’s TV series “A Different World” is dead, according to reports.
Myers died away Tuesday night (Feb 19) at Charleston Medical Center in West Virginia following complications from pneumonia, TMZ reported.
Lou was reportedly hospitalized back in December for pneumonia but he was released after New Year’s. A few weeks later, he collapsed at home and was put back in the hospital.
Tuesday night, Lou’s heart stopped, and though doctors were able to revive him, he fell into a coma and passed away just a few hours later. He was 77 years old. An autopsy will be performed to determine the official cause of death.
According to the Associated Press, Lou Myers’ TV credits include “NYPD Blue,” “E.R.,” “The Cosby Show,” “Touched by an Angel,” and more. He also made appearances in a number of films, including “Tin Cup,” “How Stella Got Her Groove Back,” “Wedding Planner” and more.
“A Different World” — a spin-off from the “Cosby” show — ran from 1987-93 and originally starred Lisa Bonet from “Cosby” fame. Myers has credited Bill Cosby for his introduction into Hollywood.
Lou — who served in the U.S Army and will receive a military burial in West Virginia — is survived by his son and his 95-year-old mother.
