Don Ameche, versatile leading man of 1930s and '40s films whose comeback in the 1980s brought him an Oscar as supporting actor in "Cocoon," has died of cancer. He was 85.
Ameche died Monday evening at his son's home in this upscale Phoenix suburb, said Marlow Hardy, who was handling arrangements for Messenger Mortuary. The actor had come from California to live with Don Ameche Jr. because of his illness, said Hardy, who didn't know the type of cancer.Ameche, who became a radio star, made a smooth transition to films, beginning with "Sins of Man" in 1936. During 12 years at 20th Century Fox, he appeared in musicals, comedies and biographical dramas, most notably "The Story of Alexander Graham Bell."
When his film career faded in 1948, Ameche busied himself on Broadway in "Silk Stockings" and "Can Can" and later in touring musicals and dinner theater. His second film career began in 1983 with "Trading Places," starring Eddie Murphy and Dan Aykroyd.
Two years later, he appeared in the fantasy "Cocoon," in which he played one of a group of Florida retirees who discover a fountain of youth created by extraterrestrials.
Ameche's on-screen ebullience contrasted with his personal modesty. When he received an Academy Award at the age of 79 in 1986, he remarked: "For all you members of the academy, this esteemed gentleman (the Oscar) says that you have given me your recognition. You've given to me your love; I hope that I have earned your respect."
Ameche believed his Hollywood slide began when he refused a three-year extension on his Fox contract.