Actor John F. Dunsworth, best known for his portrayal of Jim Lahey in the comedy series Trailer Park Boys, has died at the age of 71.
The news was confirmed by Dunsworth’s daughter Sarah in an email.
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“John left this world peacefully after a short and unexpected illness,” she wrote in an email.
Dunsworth was born in Bridgewater, N.S. on April 12, 1946 and attended the University of Guelph where he majored in theatre before dropping out in his fourth year.
Dunsworth acted in numerous CBC radio dramas had many starring roles in stage productions at the Neptune Theatre in Halifax.
Condolences for the revered actor were pouring in on social media Monday evening.
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American comedian Tom Arnold wrote on Twitter: “So sad. RIP John Dunsworth. One of the finest men and most brilliant actors I’ve ever had the honour to work with.”
Mike Smith, who is best known for his portrayal of Bubbles in Trailer Park Boys, offered his condolences in a tweet Monday night.
“I am beyond devastated. John was a beautiful guy. Brilliant and fascinating. I am forever grateful for having known him. RIP my friend,” he wrote.
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We're in shock and heartbroken by the sudden loss of our dear friend John Dunsworth. We respect the family's wishes for privacy at this time — Trailer Park Boys (@trailerparkboys) October 16, 2017
Along with his role as Jim Lahey, Dunsworth has an extensive career in television and film dating back to 1978.
One of his more prominent roles include Dave Teagues in the series Haven.
Dunsworth was well-known in the regional theatre community, including the creation of the Pier One Theatre; one of the Halifax’s first alternative theatre and production houses.
His family has asked for privacy at this time.
DownForever on October 16th, 2017 at 23:01 UTC »
Damn this hurts. This brilliantly talented man will always be directly responsible for millions of smiles upon our faces and an infinite amount laughter in all of our lives. What a warm soul he was. You could easily sense how genuinely passionate he was just by listening to his voice. Family, friends and legions of us lifelong fans will miss him immensely.
His portrayal as Mr. Lahey on TPB is as classic as it gets. Hands down one of the most hilarious characters in tv history. John Dunsworth’s performances were beyond brilliant.
He was a total professional and a class act all around. All you ever have to do is watch one scene of Trailer Park Boys with him in it and you’ll see what a comedic genius this man is. His legacy will live on forever.
Thank you so much for giving us all a million lifetimes worth of laughter and joy from your hard work, dedication and commitment to your craft. We all fucking love you bud!
Rest In Peace Mr. Lahey
Farkerisme on October 16th, 2017 at 22:44 UTC »
Guy was an OUTSTANDING actor.
KofOaks on October 16th, 2017 at 22:40 UTC »
Please watch his video Get a hobby
Goodbye my friend, you were a real inspiration.