Breaking Bad actor and comedian Mike Batayeh has died aged 52.
Batayeh died on 1 June, according to a family statement released last week on social media.
The Instagram post was captioned with an image of the actor and his dog.
It said: “It is with great sadness and heavy hearts that my sisters and I announce the passing of our dear brother Mike Batayeh on Thursday June 1 2023.
“He will be greatly missed by those who loved him and his great ability to bring laughter and joy to so many. Funeral arrangements will be posted at a later date.”
The 52-year-old’s family told TMZ he died at home in Michigan in his sleep after a heart attack.
An online obituary has been set up to honour the late actor and comedian, with an announcement that the funeral service will be held next Saturday at noon.
Batayeh is survived by five brothers and sisters.
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The actor was famously known for his role as the manager of Lavandería Brillante industrial laundromat, and also appeared on Everybody Loves Raymond, The Shield, Sleeper Cell and Touch.
He has also had a voice acting role in X-Men: Days of Future Past.
‘A devastating loss of a huge life’
Tributes poured in after the Batayeh family announced his death on Instagram.
Fellow comic Mina Liccione said: “Oh my heart…I’m so deeply sorry for your loss. Rest In Peace and laughter, Mike. You’ll be greatly missed!”.
Hollywood director Rola Nashef also paid tribute to her friend on Facebook and said: “A devastating loss of a huge life – Mike Batayah, you were everybody’s friend. And I mean everybody.
“There isn’t a person that I introduced you to or a waitress that took our order whom you didn’t make laugh, think, inspire and root for.
“You wanted to see us all win. I still can’t believe this news. People keep saying ‘But I just talked to him last week’- not text or messaged with him, but talked with him. Because you are an old school friend, who was loyal, generous, wise and invested in the people that you loved.
She continued: “Amin Matalqa referred to you as the ‘Robin Williams’ of Arab-America – so spot on. Your sense of humor and your talent for stage, screenwriting, television and film was genius, outrageous and fearless.
“I pray so much for your sisters, nephews, nieces, cousins and our entire community who will feel your loss forever. Rest in peace dear Mike, you’re my friend always.”
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