Chick Vennera, a veteran actor of stage and screen, has died from cancer at his home in.
The 74-year-old’s death was confirmed by his daughter, Nicky Vennera, Deadline reported.
The multi-talented actor, singer and dancer starred on Broadway, in films, television series and animated series throughout his nearly five decade career in Hollywood.
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Vennera was best known for his disco dance scene performed atop parked cars in the ’70s cult classic “Thank God It’s Friday,” as well as his recurring role as Enrique/Pepe in NBC’s iconic sitcom “The Golden Girls,” co-starring opposite Bea Arthur, Betty White, Rue McClanahan and Estelle Getty.
In 1973, the budding actor was cast in the national touring production of the smash Broadway musical “Grease.”
During his 30-year career in film and television, he starred alongside greats including Donna Summer and Debra Winger in 1978’s Oscar-winning “Thank God It’s Friday,” Richard Gere in the 1979 WWII romantic epic “Yanks” and Robert Redford in 1988’s magical farmer comedy-drama “The Milagro Beanfield War.”
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In 2005, the veteran actor appeared in his last indie film, “Glass Trap,” with cult icons C. Thomas Howell and Stella Stevens.
Among his 74 acting credits, he also voiced characters for the “Animaniacs,” “Batman Beyond,” “The Real Adventures of Jonny Quest” and “Pinky and the Brain.”
After retiring from the screen, Vennera went on to share his talents founding and teaching at Los Angeles’ Renegade Theatre and Film Group in 2009. He is survived by his daughter and wife, Suzanne Vennera.
