Larry Storch, a character actor most famous for starring in the 1960s sitcom “F Troop,” died on Friday at age 99. His death was confirmed on his official Facebook page, although the cause of death wasn’t disclosed.
“It is with the heaviest of hearts that we share with you the news our beloved Larry passed away in his sleep overnight,” the tribute read. “We are shocked and at a loss for words at the moment. Please remember he loved each and every one of you and wouldn’t want you to cry over his passing.
“He is reunited with his wife Norma and his beloved ‘F Troop’ cast and so many friends and family,” the post added.
Born Jan. 8, 1923, in New York City, Storch was perhaps best known for his role in ABC’s short-lived Civil War sitcom “F Troop,” in which he portrayed Corporal Randolph Agarn, the dimwitted sidekick of Sergeant O’Rourke (played by Forrest Tucker).
As part of their signature bit, Storch’s usually bumbling Agarn would make an uncharacteristically keen observation, whereupon O’Rouke (Tucker) would exclaim, “Agarn, I don’t know why everybody says you’re so dumb.” Then, much later in the next scene, his indignant lackey would respond, “Who says I’m dumb?”
The comedy star also played several of Agarn’s relatives in the series, which lasted just two seasons from 1965-67.
However, Storch also had many other guest spots during his more than 60-year small-screen career. Notable projects included roles in classic shows such as “I Dream of Jeannie,” “Get Smart,” “Gomer Pyle: USMC,” “The Greatest Show on Earth,” “Love, American Style,” “The Love Boat” and more.
The comedic actor was renowned for his distinctive Bronx accent, which he lent to numerous cartoons including “Koko the Clown” and “Scooby-Doo and Scrappy-Doo.” He additionally voiced Mr. Whoopee in the popular mid-1960s animated series “Tennessee Tuxedo and His Tales.”
In his last credited role, the prolific TV actor voiced Willie on the TV series “Medium Rare” in 2010.
Along with his small-screen career, Storch also racked up multiple Broadway credits, including “Porgy and Bess” (1983), “Arsenic and Old Lace” (1986), “Annie Get Your Gun” (1999) and, in 2004, “Sly Fox” with Richard Dreyfuss and Irwin Corey.