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| Robert Loggia at play with Tom Hanks in Big |
Robert Loggia has died at the age of 85 from complications of Alzheimer's disease. The Italian-American son of a shoemaker, he was famous for his tough guy performances in films like Scarface, Lost Highway and Prizzi's Honor, but was a versatile character actor who also appeared in a range of very different roles, including that of the avuncular toy company head honcho in Big, alongside Tom Hanks. He played Richard Gere's father in An Officer And A Gentlemen, and was a general charged with saving the world from the alien menace in Independence Day.
Alongside his film career, Loggia produced a great volume of television work, appearing in much-loved series like Gunsmoke!, Starsky And Hutch, Rawhide, Little House On The Prairie, Hawaii Five-0 and The Sopranos. He is one of few actors to have gone up against both Quincy ME and Columbo.
Diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease five years ago, Loggia nevertheless managed to keep working, with his final two films due out next year. He also kept up the humanitarian work that won him an Ellis Island Medal of Honor.
Loggia is survived by his wife Audrey, his children Tracy, John and Kristina from a previous marriage, step-daughter Cynthia Marlette, and six grandchildren.
