‘Animal House’ Actor Stephen Furst Dies at 63

Stephen Furst, who is remembered for playing Flounder in 1978 theatrical “Animal House” and Elliot Axelrod on NBC medical drama “St. Elsewhere,” has died from complications from diabetes. He was 63.

Born in Norfolk, Virginia as Stephen Nelson Feuerstein, Furst reprised his role from “Animal House” in 1979 spin-off sitcom “Delta House.” He also appeared on screen on “The Unseen” in 1980 and “Up the Creek” in 1984, and in syndicated sci-fi drama “Babylon 5” from 1994-98. And he traveled the guest star route in series like ”Newhart,” “Night Court,” “CHiPS” and “The Jeffersons;” and was a regular in short-lived sitcom “Have Faith” in 1989.

Furst also directed “Baby Huey’s Great Easter Adventure” in 1999 and “Magic Kid 2” in 1994. After he was diagnosed with diabetes in 1996,he dropped more than 85 pounds and appeared in an educational video produced by the American Diabetes Association.

Furst’s sons Nathan and Griffin Furst posted the following on Facebook:

Steve has a long list of earthly accomplishments. He was known to the world as an brilliant and prolific actor and filmmaker, but to his family and many dear friends he was also a beloved husband, father and kind friend whose memory will always be a blessing.

If you knew him personally, remember his gift for lighting up a room. And no matter who you are, when you think of Steve, instead of being sad, celebrate his life by watching one of his movies or use one of his bits to make someone else laugh – really, really hard.