Actor Dennis Farina Has Died, Age 69

Actor and former cop Dennis Farina has passed away at the age of 69.

The star, known for his role as Joe Fontana in New York TV show Law and Order, passed away after developing a blood clot in his lung, his publicist Lori De Waal confirmed on Monday.

The actor served as Chicago policeman for years before entering show business. He began his onscreen career in the 80s, with his breakout role coming in Crime Story, a TV series that ran from 1986 to 1988.

Following the end of that series, Farina appeared in action comedy Midnight Run and a string of TV movies, along with box office hits like Get Shorty and Saving Private Ryan.

Earlier this year, Farina appeared in two episodes of Fox comedy New Girl, playing Nick’s father, Walt Miller.

Farina most recently appeared in TV comedy New Girl

Farina died in Scottsdale, Arizona, and is survived by his partner of 35 years, Marianne Cahill, three sons and six grandchildren.