The legendary Hollywood star Carol Burnett is speaking out to pay tribute to her late “Carol Burnett Show” co-star Stevel Lawrence after he died of Alzheimer’s disease at the age of 88.
Burnett Honors Lawrence
“Steve was one of my favorite guests on my variety show, appearing 39 times. He was also my very close friend … so close that I considered him ‘family.’ He will always be in my heart,” Burnett, 90, wrote on Instagram alongside a photo of herself and Lawrence performing together in their younger days.
Social media users were quick to show their support for Burnett during this tragic time.
“What a talent. Rest now, Steve,” wrote the actress Jane Lynch, best known for starring in the television show “Glee.” The singer Dionne Warwick, a close personal friend of Lawrence’s, said that he is “resting with comfort in the arms of the Heavenly Father. My heartfelt condolences go out.”
“Whenever I think of Steve Lawrence I immediately think of your show. He was always a favorite guest. Wonderful singer and great in the sketches too. He and [Eydie] were wonderful!! R.I.P.,” commented one fan, with another adding, “So sad to hear of your loss. Steve Lawrence was such a talented, charming performer. Thank you for featuring him on your wonderful show.”
Related: Julie Andrews Honors Carol Burnett On Her 90th Birthday – ‘Oh How We’ve Laughed!’
Lawrence’s Death
People Magazine reported that a press release stated that Lawrence died of “complications due to Alzheimer’s disease” after being diagnosed in 2019. At the time of his diagnosis, Lawrence revealed it to the world in order to shut down “a number of rumors and some press reaching out” to him.
“I have been diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease, and it’s in the early stages,” Lawrence said at the time. “I am being treated with medications under the supervision of some of the finest doctors in the field.”
“Fortunately, they have managed to slow down this horrific process,” he added. “I’m living my life, going out in public and trying to spend as much time as possible with my family and friends while I am still able to engage and enjoy.”
Related: Carol Burnett Proud To Still Receive Fan Mail At Nearly 90 – ‘Really Touches Me’
Lawrence’s History
Born in New York City in 1935, Lawrence rose to fame as one half of the music duo Steve and Eydie with his late wife Eydie Gormé, who he was married to from 1957 until her death in 2013. During his career, Lawrence earned a No. 1 on Billboard’s Hot 100 singles chart in 1963 before doing the same in 1971.
“My dad was an inspiration to so many people,” Lawrence’s son David told NBC News. “But, to me, he was just this charming, handsome, hysterically funny guy who sang a lot. Sometimes alone and sometimes with his insanely talented wife. I am so lucky to have had him as a father and so proud to be his son.”
Lawrence was predeceased by his wife and their son Michael, who died of heart failure in 1986 at the age of 23. He is survived by his son David and by one granddaughter, one brother, and several extended family members. Please join us in saying a prayer for them during this difficult time.
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