Summary
With an acclaimed 50-year-plus career across multiple art forms,RoseanneactorMartin Mullis leaving behind a storied legacy following his death at the age of 80. Following his acting debut inMary Hartman, Mary Hartman, Mull built an extensive filmography on both the big and small screens, with one of his most notable being that of Colonel Mustard in thecult classic movie adaptation ofClue. More recently, Mull has found larger success with his recurring roles, including his Emmy-nominated turn in HBO’sVeep.
Maggie Mull, the Emmy nominee’s daughter, took to her Instagram to share the news of her father’s passing.
The post, as seen above, features an emotional caption written by theFamily Guyco-executive producer, who reveals that Mull died “after a valiant fight against a long illness”. Mull goes on to reflect on his various creative works, while also humorously recalling his work “doing Red Roof Inn commercials”, and sharing the love she had for her father.
Mull Leaves Behind A Wide-Ranging & Varied Career
Interestingly, before becoming a star in the world of on-screen comedy, Mull’s career first took off in the music industry by performing a variety of satirical songs, as well as opening for a number of iconic performers, including Randy Newman, Billy Joel and Bruce Springsteen. Around the same time, Mull was making a name for himself in the art world as a painter, for which he would later publish a book of some of his works entitledPaintings Drawings and Words. His work would even be used for the cover of Steve Martin’s 2013 bluegrass album,Love Has Come for You.
As far as his onscreen work goes, Mull may be remembered best for his TV performances, particularly inRoseannein which he starred as Leon Carp, the titular character’s boss and eventual business partner. The tense-yet-caring banter between Roseanne and Leon, as well as being an early example of a main gay character in a TV show, quickly established him as a fan-favorite for years to come. Despite this love, though, Mull interestingly never returned for theRoseannerevival season or the spinoff sequelThe Conners, though showrunner Bruce Helford recently explained it was due to not finding an organic and special story to bring Leon back.
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Roseannewouldn’t be the end toMartin Mull’s sitcom work, though, as he went on to star infour seasons ofSabrina the Teenage Witchand the short-livedThe Ellen Show, while also having recurring roles inArrested Developmentas frequently disguised private detective Gene Parmesan,Two and a Half Menas laidback pharmacist Russell,The RanchandNot Dead Yet. With so many iconic roles to his name, Mull is sure to be missed by fans along with his family.
