George Gaynes (born George Jongejans; May 16, 1917 – February 15, 2016) was a Finnish-born American actor
He was best known for his role as Commandant Eric Lassard in the Police Academy film series
Gaynes was born in Helsinki, Finland and began his acting career in the Netherlands in the 1940s
He then moved to the United States, where he appeared in numerous Broadway productions, including the original production of Wonderful Town in 1953
He also had a successful career in television, with notable roles in shows such as The Days and Nights of Molly Dodd and Punky Brewster
However, Gaynes gained widespread recognition and popularity for his portrayal of the bumbling Commandant Eric Lassard in the Police Academy films
He appeared in all seven films in the series, which were released between 1984 and 1994
His comedic timing and lovable character endeared him to audiences and made him a household name
Outside of his work in film and television, Gaynes was also a talented opera singer
He performed in various operas throughout his career and recorded several albums
George Gaynes passed away on February 15, 2016, at the age of 98
He left behind a legacy of memorable performances and contributed greatly to the entertainment industry.
He then moved to the United States, where he appeared in numerous Broadway productions, including the original production of Wonderful Town in 1953. He also had a successful career in television, with notable roles in shows such as The Days and Nights of Molly Dodd and Punky Brewster. However, Gaynes gained widespread recognition and popularity for his portrayal of the bumbling Commandant Eric Lassard in the Police Academy films. He appeared in all seven films in the series, which were released between 1984 and 1994. His comedic timing and lovable character endeared him to audiences and made him a household name. Outside of his work in film and television, Gaynes was also a talented opera singer. He performed in various operas throughout his career and recorded several albums. George Gaynes passed away on February 15, 2016, at the age of 98. He left behind a legacy of memorable performances and contributed greatly to the entertainment industry.