Ron Carey was a popular actor and comedian who starred as Officer Carl Levitt on the hit sitcom Barney Miller. He also appeared in several films by Mel Brooks, such as High Anxiety and History of the World: Part I. He was known for his short stature, quick wit, and distinctive voice. But how did he die and what was his cause of death?
Stroke: The Silent Killer
Ron Carey died of a stroke at the age of 71 on January 16, 2007, at a hospital in Los Angeles, California. A stroke occurs when the blood supply to a part of the brain is interrupted, causing brain cells to die. Strokes can cause various symptoms, such as weakness, numbness, vision problems, speech difficulties, confusion, and loss of consciousness. Strokes can be fatal or result in permanent disability.
According to Dead or Kicking, Ron’s cause of death was stroke. However, the exact details of his stroke, such as when it happened, what type it was, and what risk factors he had, are not publicly known. Some common risk factors for stroke include high blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes, smoking, obesity, and age.
A Life Well Lived
Ron Carey was born as Ronald Joseph Cicenia on December 11, 1935, in Newark, New Jersey. He was raised in an Italian American Catholic family and attended Barringer High School. He graduated from Seton Hall University in 1956 with a degree in communications.
He started his career as a stand-up comedian in the 1960s, performing in clubs and on television shows like The Merv Griffin Show. He also released a comedy album called The Slightly Irreverent Comedy of Ron Carey in 1967.
He made his film debut in The Out-of-Towners in 1970 and went on to appear in many movies and TV shows throughout his career. He was a member of Mel Brooks’s comedy troupe and worked with him on several projects. He also played a variety of roles on other shows, such as The Twilight Zone, Star Trek: Voyager, Friends, and Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D.
He is best remembered for his role as Officer Carl Levitt on Barney Miller, which he played from 1976 to 1982. He portrayed a diligent but somewhat obsequious and passive-aggressive policeman who always sought recognition and promotion from his superiors. He was often the butt of jokes for his height and coffee-making skills.
He was married to Sharon Boyeronus for 38 years until his death. He had no children but had a brother named James Cicenia. He was a devout Buddhist and practiced meditation.
A Legacy of Laughter
Ron Carey left behind a legacy of laughter and entertainment for his fans and colleagues. He was praised for his comedic timing, versatility, and professionalism. He was also known for being a kind and generous person who supported various causes and charities.
He received many awards and honors for his work, such as an Emmy nomination for Barney Miller in 1982 and a Peabody Award for the show in 1979. He also has a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame.
His death was mourned by many people who admired him and worked with him. His Barney Miller co-star Hal Linden said that he was “a very funny man” who “always had something going” (Looper). His Firefly co-star Nathan Fillion said that he was “a wonderful man” who “made me laugh” (Twitter).
Ron Carey will always be remembered as one of the funniest and most talented actors of his generation. His cause of death may have been tragic, but his life was full of joy and humor. He made millions of people smile and laugh with his performances and personality. He was a true star who shone bright in the world of comedy.
