The American actor and comedian, Dom DeLuise, has died in Los Angeles following a long illness. He was 75.
Among his film credits were the Mel Brooks comedies 'Blazing Saddles', 'Silent Movie', 'History of the World: Part 1' and 'Robin Hood: Men in Tights' and the capers 'Smokey and the Bandit II', 'The Cannonball Run' and 'The Cannonball Run II'.
In a statement, his family said: "It's easy to mourn his death, but easier to remember a time when he made you laugh."
Paying tribute, director Mel Brooks said: "Dom DeLuise was a big man in every way. He was big in size and created big laughter and joy."
His 'Cannonball Run' co-star Burt Reynolds said that he "never heard him say an unkind word about anyone".
"I will miss him very much," added Reynolds.
