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Stacy Keach, Star of 2 Classic Sports Movies, Dead at 85

Stacy Keach, a prolific character actor whose on-screen presence began back in 1964, has died at the age of 85.

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Keach's fourth wife, Malgosia Tomassi Keach, announced his passing with a statement. According to the information provided, the longtime actor passed at his family home in Magdalenka, Poland.

"After a long and difficult battle with a serious heart condition and heart failure, Stacy peacefully departed this world," the statement said. "He fought for so long, with extraordinary courage, determination and strength. He was a true warrior, facing his illness with the same remarkable spirit and resilience that defined his life.

"Stacy was not only a legendary actor, admired and loved by audiences the world over, but also my beloved husband, my companion and the heart of our family. His passing leaves an immeasurable emptiness in our lives. But his extraordinary spirit, his unforgettable voice and the love he gave so generously will remain with us forever."

Keach's biggest role varied, depending on the person providing commentary. Some remembered him as LAPD officer Roy Fehler in The New Centurions (1972). Others remembered him as Mike Hammer in the TV series and TV movies. Some younger fans knew him as the voice of Skipper in Planes and Planes: Fire and Rescue. 

Of course, many fans of hot rods and stand-up comedy know Keach for a different reason. They know him as Ken Titus, the gruff father of comedian Christopher Titus, in his titular TV series. Titus, which ran for 55 episodes before Titus angered a TV executive, focused on the comedian's unique and slightly dysfunctional family.

Keach also starred in two boxing films during his long career. The first, Fat City, released in 1972 and also starred Jeff Bridges. The second, the Boxer, was a 2009 film in which a former boxing coach tries to help an ex-con become a professional.