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Wings Hauser, “The Young and the Restless” Alum and Father of “Yellowstone”’s Cole Hauser, Dies at 78
@Source: people.com
Wings Hauser has died at the age of 78.
The actor’s wife, Cali Lili Hauser, took to Instagram on Wednesday, March 19, to announce his death. In a lengthy message, Cali detailed Wings’ success and remembered him for his dedication to his craft.
“Movie icon Wings Hauser took flight in the arms of his film & music partner, Cali Lili Hauser at their studio this weekend,” it said, alongside a photo of them with their dog in Carmel, California, where his mother grew up. “Born in Hollywood, proud Academy member and prouder son of Academy Award winning writer, director, producer Dwight A. Hauser and loving mother Geraldine T. Hauser, Wings Hauser’s one of a kind, legendary career spanned 58 years in movies, tv & music working alongside many of the greatest artists in the industry and earning their respect.”
In addition to his wife, Wings is survived by his children: daughter Bright Hauser and son Cole Hauser.
Cole followed in his father’s footsteps and became an actor as well. He recently starred as Rip Wheeler, the son-in-law of Kevin Costner’s John Dutton, in Yellowstone.
At the November premiere for season 5 of Yellowstone, Cole, 49, told PEOPLE that he received valuable advice from his father about entering the industry.
"Oh god, yeah. I mean, I think his advice was, you know, persist until you succeed," Cole said. "Yeah, you know you're gonna get knocked down in this business. You're gonna be told 'no' a lot, but just keep following your dreams."
Wings got his start on First to Fight in 1967 before landing roles on Magnum, P.I., The Fall Guy, Murder, She Wrote, Perry Mason, Roseanne, Beverly Hills, 90210, Kingpin, Bones and Criminal Minds.
He is best known for playing Greg Foster on the popular soap opera The Young and the Restless in 1977 and again in 2010.
He also appeared in a number of films, most notably the 1982 thriller Vice Squad, in which he played Ramrod alongside Gary Swanson. In 1999, he appeared in The Insider with Al Pacino and Russell Crowe and later took on Rubber and Tough Guys Don’t Dance.
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Wings was in the process of making a documentary about his life and career called Working Class Actor. His wife’s post shared hopes to continue its production.
“His recent and upcoming releases along with his living wish is handing the torch to the love of his life, Cali, requesting she continue the work embodying their partnership, their love story and honoring his legacy,” the caption read. “Wings asks movie and music lovers in lieu of flowers or cards that they please show ongoing support for current and future projects.”
The official Instagram page for the documentary also paid tribute to Wings, writing: “We are devastated over the great #WingsHauser passing. All of us mourn the loss of a huge heart & soul larger even than his astonishing creative legacy. His contributions to the arts survive into eternity and our deepest condolences go out to his family, friends & fans. RIP”
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