Joe Flynn was a popular American actor and comedian who starred in several TV shows and movies in the 1950s and 1960s. He is best remembered for his role as Captain Wallace B. Binghamton in the sitcom McHale’s Navy, where he played the frustrated and antagonistic superior of a group of mischievous naval officers. He also lent his voice to several animated Disney films, such as The Rescuers, The Aristocats, and The Jungle Book.
However, Flynn’s life was cut short by a tragic accident that occurred on July 19, 1974, when he was only 49 years old. Here is what we know about Joe Flynn’s cause of death and the circumstances surrounding it.
A Heart Attack While Swimming
According to Wikipedia, Flynn’s body was discovered by family members in the swimming pool of his Beverly Hills home, the victim of an apparent heart attack while swimming. His obituary stated the cause of death as a heart attack while swimming.
Flynn had just completed voice-over work as Mr. Snoops for Walt Disney’s 23rd animated feature The Rescuers (released in 1977) before his death. He had also finished filming The Strongest Man in the World, another Disney comedy, where he played Dean Higgins, a recurring character in several films.
Flynn was known to have a history of heart problems and had suffered a minor heart attack in 1971. He was also a heavy smoker and drinker, which may have contributed to his poor health.
A Cast That Dragged Him Down
However, some sources claim that there was another factor that may have caused or worsened Flynn’s drowning. According to NNDB, Flynn was wearing a cast at the time of his death, which weighed him down and prevented him from resurfacing.
The cast was reportedly due to an injury he sustained while filming The Strongest Man in the World, where he broke his ankle during a stunt. The cast covered his entire leg from the ankle to the hip.
It is unclear how Flynn ended up in the pool with the cast on, or whether anyone else was present at the time. Some speculate that he may have fallen into the pool accidentally, or that he may have tried to swim despite his condition.
A Legacy of Laughter
Regardless of the exact details of his death, Joe Flynn’s demise was a shock and a loss to many fans and colleagues who admired his talent and humor. He was buried at Holy Cross Cemetery in Culver City, California.
Flynn left behind a legacy of laughter and entertainment that spanned over two decades. He appeared in over 30 films and numerous TV shows, often playing comedic roles that showcased his expressive facial expressions and distinctive voice. He also had a passion for theater and politics, and even ran for office once.
Joe Flynn’s cause of death may have been tragic, but his life was full of joy and laughter. He will always be remembered as one of the most beloved comedians of his era.
