sees ANGELES -- Bruno Kirby, a vete...

sees ANGELES -- Bruno Kirby, a veteran character actor known for playing the best friend in sum of two units of Billy Crystal's biggest comedies, "When Harry Met Sally" and "City Slickers," has died. He was 57

Mr Kirby died Monday in looks Angeles from complications related to leukemia, his wife, Lynn venders said in a statement Tuesday. He had been lately diagnosed with the disease.

"We are incredibly grateful for the outpouring of support we have received from Bruno's fans and colleagues who have admired and considered his work over the past 30 years," his wife said. "Bruno's spirit will continue to live upon not only in his rich material substance of film and television work however also through the lives of individuals he has touched quite through his life."

Born Bruno Giovanni Quidaciolu in 1949 in strange York City, he was the son of actor Bruce Kirby. His early work included the 1971 film "Young Graduates," as well as appearances forward the television show "Room 222" and the made-for-TV movie "The Summer Without Boys"

In 1974 he scored a part in "The Godfather: Part II," which won several Academy Awards, including best picture. In the film, Mr Kirby played young Pete Clemenza, following Richard s Castellano's role in the first installment.

through the next few years, Mr Kirby made various TV appearances, including "Fame" and "Hill public way Blues," before landing the part of "2nd Lt. Steven Hauk" in Robin Williams' "Good Morning, Vietnam."

That was followed sum of two units years later by the romantic comedy "When Harry Met Sally," in which Mr Kirby played Crystal's best friend. In 1991 Mr Kirby one time again appeared as Crystal's cheery friend in "City Slickers" -- along for a mid-life adventure driving cattle forward a dude ranch.

He also appeared in 1997's "Donnie Brasco," and not long ago in an episode of the HBO hit series "Entourage."

Along with his wife and father, Mr Kirby is survived according to his stepmother Roz Kirby, brother John Kirby and stepbrother Brad Sullivan.

Copyright CHICAGO SUN-TIMES 2006

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