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Introduction
Hey there! Today, I’m diving into the life of a truly remarkable individual, David L. Lander. Born on June 22, 1947, in New York, NY, and passing away on December 4, 2020, at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center in Torrance, CA, David was an American actor, comedian, musician, and even a baseball scout. He gained fame for his portrayal of Andrew "Squiggy" Squiggman in the ABC sitcom Laverne & Shirley. But there’s so much more to him than just this iconic role. Let’s take a closer look at his life, career, and net worth.
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Name | David L. Lander |
| Occupation | Actor, Comedian, Musician, Baseball Scout |
| Date of Birth | June 22, 1947 |
| Birth Place | New York, NY |
| Country | United States |
| Net Worth | $8 million |
| Source of Income | Acting, Music, Baseball Scouting |
| Height | 5′ 3" (160 cm) |
| Weight | Not Publicly Disclosed |
| Ethnicity | Jewish-American |
| Parents | Stella Landau, Sol Landau |
| Siblings | Not Publicly Disclosed |
| Spouse | Kathy Fields (m. 1979–2020), Thea Poole (m. 1969–1976) |
| Children | Natalie Lander |
| Education | Carnegie Mellon University |
Early Life and Education
David was born to Stella and Sol Landau. His early years in New York were quite typical, filled with the usual ups and downs of childhood. However, his love for performing arts was evident from a young age. David attended the High School of Performing Arts in New York City, which set the stage for his future career in entertainment.
Education and Early Career
After high school, David pursued his passion for theatre by enrolling at Carnegie Mellon University in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. It was here that he met Michael McKean, who would later become his co-star in Laverne & Shirley. The duo formed a comedy act called "Lenny and Squiggy," which they performed at various venues.
Career Highlights
David’s big break came when he landed the role of Andrew "Squiggy" Squiggman on the popular ABC sitcom Laverne & Shirley. The show, which aired from 1976 to 1983, was a massive hit, and David’s character quickly became a fan favorite. His unique voice and comedic timing made Squiggy an unforgettable part of the show.
Other Acting Roles
While Laverne & Shirley was David’s most famous role, he appeared in numerous other TV shows and movies. Some of his notable appearances include roles in Married… with Children, The Bold and the Beautiful, and Family Guy. He also lent his voice to various animated series, including The Garfield Show and Oswald.
Music and Comedy
In addition to acting, David was a talented musician and comedian. He often performed stand-up comedy and played the piano at various events. His musical talents were showcased in several of his roles, adding another layer to his already impressive skill set.
Baseball Scout
An interesting facet of David’s life was his work as a baseball scout. A passionate baseball fan, he worked for the Seattle Mariners and the Anaheim Angels. His knowledge of the game and keen eye for talent made him a valuable asset to these teams.
Personal Life
David married twice in his lifetime. His first marriage was to Thea Poole from 1969 to 1976. In 1979, he married Kathy Fields, with whom he remained until his passing in 2020. The couple had one daughter, Natalie Lander, who followed in her father’s footsteps and became an actress.
Battle with Multiple Sclerosis
In 1984, David was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis (MS), a chronic disease that affects the central nervous system. Despite his diagnosis, he continued to work in the entertainment industry and became a goodwill ambassador for the National Multiple Sclerosis Society. He was open about his condition and worked tirelessly to raise awareness and funds for MS research.
Net Worth
At the time of his passing, David L. Lander’s net worth was estimated to be around $8 million. His successful career in television, film, and music, along with his work as a baseball scout, contributed to his financial success.
Legacy
David L. Lander left an indelible mark on the entertainment industry. His portrayal of Squiggy in Laverne & Shirley remains iconic, and his contributions to comedy, music, and even baseball are noteworthy. Beyond his professional achievements, David’s advocacy for multiple sclerosis awareness showcased his resilience and dedication to making a positive impact.
Conclusion
David L. Lander was a multifaceted individual whose talents and contributions spanned various fields. From his unforgettable role as Squiggy to his work as a baseball scout and MS advocate, David’s legacy is one of talent, perseverance, and generosity. His life story serves as an inspiration to many, reminding us of the importance of pursuing our passions and giving back to the community.
