‘Modern Family’ Star Fred Willard Dead at 86

Actor Fred Willard’s May 15 death was believed to be from natural causes, but his death certificate paints a clearer picture.

TMZ reported today on Fred Willard’s cause of death. The documents, obtained by TMZ, claims the legendary actor’s cause of death was a cardiac arrest.

Fred Willard‘s cause of death has been officially revealed after he passed away last month at the age of 86.

Actor Fred Willard's cause of death has been revealed. The beloved star with a long list acting credits – including "Best in Show," "This is Spinal Tap" and "Everybody Loves Raymond" – died of cardiac arrest, according to his death certificate.

Fred Willard, a comic actor known for his scene-stealing, heavily improvised work with filmmaker Christopher Guest and his Emmy-nominated appearances on the sitcoms “Modern Family” and “Everybody Loves Raymond,” died May 15 at his home in Los Angeles. He was 86.

As Hollywood mourns the death of Fred Willard, those who worked closely with the comedic actor are remembering him through stories of his impeccable comedic timing, his iconic improvisational skills and for just plain being a hilarious guy. The forthcoming Netflix series Space Force marks Willard's first posthumous role (he died Friday at age 86).

By Pat Saperstein

LOS ANGELES (Variety.com) — Fred Willard, the comic actor known for his genial but dunderheaded characters, has died. He was 86.

Noted comedian-actor Fred Willard who won hearts with his stellar performances in multiple movies and TV shows, has passed away aged 86. This news has been confirmed by Willard’s daughter through a statement that was released on Saturday. However, the cause of his death is not known yet. The late actor had been a four-time nominee at the Emmy Awards for his roles in Modern Family, Everybody Loves Raymond, The Bold and The Beautiful and What’s Hot, What’s Not.

Comedy icon Fred Willard has died, aged 86.

Iconic comedy actor Fred Willard passed away over the weekend, to the heartbreak of friends and fans.

Waiting for Guffman and Modern Family actor Fred Willard died of natural causes on Friday, May 15. The actor was 86.

Anchorman, Austin Powers and Spinal Tap star Fred Willard has signed off, aged 86.

Fred Willard, who played Phil Dunphy’s father on Modern Family, has died at the age of 86.

Fred Willard will be missed by his family, friends and fans.

It's a sad day for Hollywood fans around the world. E! News can confirm that Fred Willard has passed away. He was 86 years old.