Happy Days star dies at 83

Tributes have been paid to veteran actor Bosley...

10:29 20 October 2010

Tributes have been paid to Happy Days actor Tom Bosley, who has died aged 83.

The veteran US actor, best known for playing Howard Cunningham in the 1970's TV series, passed away at his home just outside Palm Springs.

Henry Winkler, who played The Fonz alongside Bosley in the show, has paid tribute to the actor:

"He was our television father on the sound stage, but a father figure in real life. He was a loving husband, a doting father and a fantastic grandfather. He will be so missed but never forgotten."

Director Ron Howard, who played Bosley's son in Happy Days, said:

"My last conversations with Tom reflected the love of life and peace of mind that he always maintained throughout his full and rewarding life. I miss him already.

"Tom's insight, talent, strength of character and comic timing made him a vital central figure in the Happy Days experience."

Bosley initially turned down a part in Happy Days, but changed his mind because of a movingly-written scene between him and his on-screen son, Richie.

When the show ended in 1984, he went on the appear in Murder, She Wrote and The Father Dowling Mysteries. He also won a Tony award for his performance in the Pulitzer Prize-winning musical Fiorello!.