‘Young and the Restless’ Actor Wings Hauser Passes Away at 78
Veteran actor Wings Hauser, known for his role in The Young and the Restless, has died at the age of 78. He passed away on Saturday, March 15.
Wife Cali Lili Hauser Announces Death
The news of his death was shared by his wife, Cali Lili Hauser, via a social media announcement on Thursday, March 20. She wrote, “Movie icon Wings Hauser took flight in the arms of his film & music partner, Cali Lili Hauser, at their studio this weekend.”
In her tribute, Cali Lili Hauser lauded his extensive career, stating, “Wings Hauser’s one of a kind, legendary career spanned 58 years in movies, tv & music working alongside many of the greatest artists in the industry and earning their respect.”
Cause of Death
According to information provided to Variety by Cali Hauser, the former Vice Squad performer died from natural causes in Los Angeles on Saturday.
Early Life and Career Beginnings
Born Gerald Dwight Hauser, Wings Hauser had close ties to Hollywood from birth. His father, Dwight A. Hauser, was an Academy Award-winning writer, director, and producer. While his brother, Erich Hauser, had a brief acting stint in the ‘90s, Wings pursued a sustained career in the entertainment industry.
Notable Roles in Television and Film
Hauser gained recognition for his roles in television series such as The Last Precinct, Lightning Force, and guest appearances in Roseanne, Murder, She Wrote, and Beverly Hills, 90210. He initially portrayed Greg Foster on The Young and the Restless in 1977 and later reprised the role in 2010.
His film work includes prominent roles like Ramrod in the 1982 film Vice Squad, as well as appearances in Tough Guys Don’t Dance and The Insider.
Family Legacy
His son, Cole Hauser, has followed in his father’s footsteps and is currently known for his role as Rip Wheeler in the popular television series Yellowstone.
Survived by Wife and Children
Wings Hauser is survived by his wife, Cali, whom he married in 2012, his son with former partner Cass Warner, Cole Hauser, and his daughter, Bright Hauser, from his marriage to first wife, Jane Boltinhouse.
Continuing His Legacy
Following his passing, Cali Hauser announced her commitment to “continue” their shared projects and uphold his “legacy.”
In lieu of flowers or condolences, Cali Hauser requested that “movie and music lovers” show their “ongoing support for current and future projects” of their “award winning sustainable indie film and music studio, a sea-life and butterfly sanctuary hand-built by the Hausers (Cali Lili Indies).” She further encouraged fans to support their “social [and] environmental justice themed films and songs, as well as monarch butterflies and the source of both title and title track for an upcoming feature length documentary produced by La-La Land Entertainment.”