Renowned actor Mike Nussbaum, celebrated for his roles in iconic films like “Men in Black” and “Field of Dreams,” has passed away at the age of 99, marking the end of a prolific career in the American entertainment industry.
Nussbaum succumbed to natural causes on Saturday, just six days shy of his anticipated 100th birthday, at his residence in Chicago, as confirmed by his daughter Karen to the Chicago Tribune.
Throughout his extensive career, Nussbaum showcased his talent across various cinematic endeavors. His notable portrayals include the character of book publisher Bob Drimmer in “Fatal Attraction” (1987), a school principal in the classic “Field of Dreams” (1989), and the memorable role of alien jeweler Gentle Rosenburg in “Men in Black” (1997). His cinematic repertoire extended to movies such as “House of Games” (1987), “Things Change” (1988), “Harry and Tonto” (1974), “Losing Josiah” (1995), and “Steal Big Steal Little” (1995).
In addition to his impactful contributions to film, Nussbaum left an indelible mark on television. His versatile acting skills graced shows like “The Equalizer,” “The X-Files,” “Brooklyn Bridge,” “Separate but Equal,” “Frasier,” “L.A. Law,” “227,” “The Commish,” and “Early Edition.”
Born on December 29, 1923, and raised in Chicago’s Albany Park neighborhood, Nussbaum initially embarked on a thriving theater career. He became a prominent figure in David Mamet’s plays, both on Broadway and off, earning acclaim for his performances. Notably, he was the first actor to embody the character of Teach in Mamet’s “American Buffalo” and originated the role of George Aaronow in the 1984 Broadway rendition of “Glengarry Glen Ross.” His portrayal of Albert Einstein in Mamet’s “Relativity” further solidified his prowess on stage.
In a 2014 profile in Chicago magazine, Mamet shared his admiration for Nussbaum, remarking, “It’s wonderful to work with Mike because, like any artist, like any actor, he’s just unusual. You’re constantly saying, ‘My God, where did that come from?’ It’s not coming out of a bag of ‘acting moments.’ That’s all bullshit. It’s coming out of — who the hell knows where? You either got it, or you don’t, and Mike certainly does.”
Survived by his second wife Julie, children Jack and Karen, and seven grandchildren, Nussbaum’s legacy in the world of entertainment will endure, leaving behind a rich tapestry of performances that showcased his immense talent and dedication to the craft. He is preceded in death by his daughter Susan and first wife Annette Brenner.
