James Farentino, ‘Melrose Place’ and ‘ER’ Actor, Dies of Heart Failure

Prolific actor James Farentino, who took on countless television, film and stage roles, died of heart failure Tuesday in a Los Angeles hospital, according to a family spokesman. He was 73.

Born in Brooklyn, N.Y., in 1938, Farentino was the son of a clothing designer and was trained for the stage at the American Academy of Dramatic Arts at an early age.

Farentino’s lengthy career launched in a 1961 Broadway appearance in “Night of the Iguana.”

Over the course of his years as an actor, Farentino took on nearly 100 roles, with many being recurring characters on the small screen in series such as Melrose Place, Dynasty and ER, in which he played George Clooney‘s character’s estranged father.

In 1967, he won a “Most Promising Newcomer” Golden Globe for his performance in the comedy The Pad and How to Use It and later, in 1978, Farentino’s acting was again recognized when he received a nod for an Emmy for his portrayal of Saint Peter in the TV mini-series “Jesus of Nazareth.”

James’ most recent credit came in the 2006 TV movie “Drive/II,” according to reports.

Farentino is survived by his fourth wife, Stella, and two sons, David and Saverio.

Watch James Farentino in the opening to 1984’s ABC series Blue Thunder below:

via EW