Tributes pour in as Ned Beatty of "Superman" and "Network" fame passes away at 83

Ned Beatty, a film and T.V. actor with a long list of supporting credits, passed away at 83. He died of natural causes at his LA home, as confirmed by his manager Deborah Miller and son Jon Beatty.

Ned Beatty was an Oscar-nominated star who gained popularity in the Superman films (1978, 1980), "Deliverance" (1972), and "All the President's Men" (1976).

Miller told The Wrap that:

"Ned passed away from natural causes Sunday (June 13) morning, surrounded by his family and loved ones...His family has decided to keep details private at this time. Ned was an iconic, legendary talent, as well as a dear friend, and he will be missed by us all."

Ned Beatty as Otis in Superman (1978). Image via: Warner Bros

The late actor made his debut in 1972's "Deliverance,” where he worked with industry veterans Burt Reynolds and Jon Voight. He was best known for playing Otis, the henchman of Lex Luthor (played by Gene Hackman) in Superman and Superman II.

Ned Beatty in Deliverance (1972). Image via: Warner Bros

Beatty also received two Emmy nominations for supporting roles in "Friendly Fire" (1979), followed by "Last Train Home" (1989).

Ned Beatty as Arthur in Network (1976). Image via: MGM

---

Several stars and fans paid their tributes

"Supergirl" star Jon Cryer, who plays Lex Luthor in the series, tweeted saying:

“Otisburg...?”👨🏻‍🦲#RIPNedBeatty

— Jon Cryer (@MrJonCryer) June 13, 2021

Ralph Macchio (of Karate Kid and Cobra Kai fame) and Lance Henriksen (of Aliens fame) also tweeted in condolence:

Ned Beatty. Superb character actor - my fave being his brilliantness in NETWORK (one of the greatest screenplays and films of all time) So ahead of its time. And same for Mr. Beatty. RIP https://t.co/yzw05ip7zw

— Ralph Macchio (@ralphmacchio) June 13, 2021

Also, Read: Did Addison Rae ever star in Cobra Kai? Fans confused after TikTok star appears with Cobra Kai's Tanner Buchanan.

Another huge loss for the acting community. https://t.co/iCDRicYQes

— Lance Henriksen (@lancehenriksen) June 13, 2021

Actor and comedian Patton Oswald said:

The primal forces of nature have come to collect Ned Beatty. He was great in NETWORK, SUPERMAN, DELIVERANCE and the TV series HOMICIDE (and so much more), but don’t forget his chilling, villainous turns in WHITE LIGHTNING and MIKEY AND NICKY. https://t.co/cJMoFevJBx

— Patton Oswalt (@pattonoswalt) June 13, 2021

Ned Beatty was an amazing actor.Good in everything he was ever in.RIP.

— Don Winslow (@donwinslow) June 13, 2021

In recent years, Beatty has also gained notoriety for voicing Lots-o'-Huggin' Bear, the negative character in Toys Story 3 (2010). The director of the film, Lee Unkrich, paid his tributes to the late star.

Just heard that Ned Beatty passed away in his sleep. It was a joy and and an incredible honor to work with him. Thanks, Ned, for bringing Lotso to life — both his good side and his not-so-good side. We’ll miss you. pic.twitter.com/mDP9pP2vg1

— Lee Unkrich (@leeunkrich) June 14, 2021

Ned Beatty is also known for his supporting roles in films with Burt Reynolds. He worked with Reynolds in six films, including: "Deliverance" (1972), "White Lightning" (1973), "W.W. and the Dixie Dancekings" (1975), "Stroker Ace" (1983), "Switching Channels" (1988), and "Physical Evidence" (1989).

The late star is survived by his wife, Sandra Johnson, eight children (from previous marriages), and grandchildren. With a vast career graph and a long-term impact on the industry, Beatty’s legacy will be forever etched in Hollywood.

---

---

Help Sportskeeda improve its coverage of pop culture news. Take the 3-minute survey now.