Michael Constantine, the dad in ‘My Big Fat Greek Wedding,’ dies at 94

·

Michael Constantine, the Emmy-winning actor from the 1970s sitcom Room 222 who later portrayed the Windex-spritzing father of Nia Vardalos’ character in My Big Fat Greek Wedding, has died. He was 94.

Constantine died on August 31 in his home in his native Reading, Pennsylvania, his family announced. He had been ill for some time, they said.

The son of Greek immigrants, Constantine is warmly remembered for his turn as Gus Portokalos, the husband of Lainie Kazan’s Maria Portokalos, in the unlikely box-office smash My Big Fat Greek Wedding and its 2016 sequel.

The first installment, made for $5 million and released in 2002, grossed nearly $370 million worldwide.

On Wednesday, Vardalos paid tribute to the man who played her boisterous Greek father on Twitter, writing:

“Michael Constantine, the dad to our cast-family, a gift to the written word, and always a friend. Acting with him came with a rush of love and fun. I will treasure this man who brought Gus to life. He gave us so much laughter and deserves a rest now. We love you Michael.”

Cretan Convention - Web Banner

Advertisement

Share:

KEEP UP TO DATE WITH TGH

By subscribing you accept our Terms of Service and Privacy Policy.

Advertisement

Latest News

Australian Championship, Movember launch $500k fundraising initiative for men’s health

The Australian Championship and Movember have launched a new fundraising initiative to change the face of men’s health.

Greece launches €2.5 billion plan to secure water supply amid drought threat

Greece has unveiled a €2.5 billion national plan to confront growing water scarcity and safeguard supplies for the coming decades.

Aegean Airlines to launch first direct European flights to Baghdad

Aegean Airlines will launch the first direct flights from Europe to Baghdad on 16 December, marking a new chapter in Greece–Iraq relations.

Greece to launch voluntary conscription for women in 2026

Greece will introduce voluntary conscription for women in 2026, with the creation of a pioneering unit of 100 to 150 recruits.

Sydney Olympic and South Melbourne set for derby showdown at Jubilee Stadium

Sydney Olympic and South Melbourne reignite their rivalry at Netstrata Jubilee Stadium for another chapter in the Australian Championship.

You May Also Like

PM sends message to Archbishop Makarios on one year anniversary of enthronement

In a statement today, PM Scott Morrison has sent a message of gratitude to Archbishop Makarios to mark the one year anniversary of his enthronement.

Victoria’s Greek community overjoyed as Fairfield Amphitheatre receives heritage listing

Fairfield Amphitheatre will be placed on the Victorian Heritage Register after the Heritage Council said the site had cultural significance.

George Savvides announced as new SBS chair

George Savvides has been announced as the new chair of the broadcaster SBS Australia for a period of five years, effective today.