Hollywood actor Michael Alaimo, renowned for his roles in Space Jam and the Oscar-nominated film The China Syndrome, has passed away at the age of 86. Michael's daughter, the seasoned TV PR and communications executive Gabriella Alaimo Thomas, confirmed the tragic news of her esteemed father's demise to Variety. Although the exact cause of his passing remains undisclosed, an official statement conveyed that Michael "passed away peacefully."
This beloved small screen legend has adorned numerous films and television shows throughout his storied career. Among his most recognizable credits are Space Jam, Mr. Mom, The China Syndrome, and All I Want For Christmas. In Space Jam, Michael shone as a doctor, sharing the screen with legends like Michael Jordan, Wayne Knight, and Bill Murray.
Beyond his cinematic endeavors, Michael also left an indelible mark on television, with appearances in series such as Cheers, The Wonder Years, Scrubs, Barney Miller, Mr. Belvedere, Hill Street Blues, and Betty White’s Off Their Rockers. Prior to his Hollywood journey, Michael honed his acting chops by studying theater at Brooklyn College. From 1961 to 1964, he was an integral part of Joseph Papp's NY Shakespeare in Central Park, leading a commedia dell’arte troupe.
Michael was also actively involved in political activism, collaborating with East Harlem’s influential Gut Theatre. After relocating to San Francisco, he toured with the anti-war show F.T.A. before finally settling in Los Angeles in 1973. It was in this city of dreams that Michael secured his big break with roles in The Six Million Dollar Man, Cannon, and Harry O.
Michael's legacy lives on through his wife Louise, daughters Gabrielle and Giovanna, son-in-law David, and granddaughters Isabella and Malia. Tragically, shortly before Michael's demise, the beloved James Bond star Joe Don Baker, who portrayed two distinct roles in the iconic franchise, also passed away at the age of 89.
Joe Don was most celebrated for his portrayal of a top CIA agent alongside Pierce Brosnan in two blockbuster Bond films. His family shared a heartfelt statement in remembrance: "His intellectual curiosity fueled his insatiable appetite for reading, fostering a profound love for nature and animals, especially cats. Throughout his life, Joe Don touched countless lives with his warmth and compassion, leaving an indelible mark on everyone fortunate enough to know him."
