Leslie Nielsen Dead at 84:DEPION BLOGSPOT

Leslie Nielsen died from complications due to pneumonia today at a hospital near his home in Fort Lauderdale, Florida.

Nielsen, best known for his roles in the “Airplane” and “Naked Gun” films, was surrounded by his wife, Barbaree Earl Nielsen, and friends when he passed away at 5:34pm, at age 84.

Beginning his career in dramatic television roles in the 1950s, his deadpan delivery in “Airplane” in 1980, marked a turning point, giving him a reputation as a comedian and earning him the title “the Olivier of spoofs” by film critic Roger Ebert.

Nielsen appeared in over 100 films and 1,500 television programs, portraying over 220 characters during his career.

photo: Nikki Nelson/WENN