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'Alf' actor Michu Meszaros dies, aged 76

June 14, 2016

Best known for playing a beloved extraterrestrial in the television series "Alf," Hungarian-born actor Michu Meszaro has died after falling into a coma several days ago.

https://p.dw.com/p/1J677
TV Series Alf - Michu Meszaros, Copyright: picture-alliance/dpa/Tobis
Image: picture-alliance/dpa/Tobis

Born in Budapest in 1939, Michu Meszaro was less than 3 feet (84 cm) tall. His short stature brought him an entry in the Guinness Book of World Records as the smallest man in the world - and led to numerous entertainment opportunities. In his teens, he performed with the Ringling Brothers and Barnum & Bailey Circus.

Later, Meszaro played in films like "Big Top Pee-wee" and "Freaked," as well as making appearances on TV.

By far his most famous role was that of "Alf" in the series of the same name. From 1986 to 1990, he donned a furry, costume with an oversized nose to play the lovable alien.

Meszaros had had health problems after suffering a stroke eight years ago. He was found unresponsive in his home near Los Angeles several days ago and rushed to hospital. The actor passed away on June 13 at the age of 76.

In his home town of Hawthorne, California, a small street - Michu Lane - has been named after him.

kbm/eg (AP, dpa)