David Margulies, Mayor In ‘Ghostbusters’ Movie, Dies At 78

David Marguiles, who notably appeared in Ghostbusters and on The Sopranos TV series, has died. He was 78.

David Marguiles Dies

Margulies’ death was confirmed by his agent, Harry Abrams. The beloved character actor passed away following a battle with cancer, his sister, Vicki Margulies, told The New York Times.

In Ghostbusters, Marguiles proved to be a scene-stealer as no-nonsense New York City mayor Lenny Clotch, a role he reprised in the film’s sequel. On The Sopranos, Marguiles memorably played Tony Soprano’s (James Gandolfini) sleazy attorney, Neil Mink, in eight episodes of the HBO series’ critically acclaimed run.

“I was fortunate enough to work with David on both Ghostbusters films. He was an extraordinary actor both on screen and on stage,” said director Ivan Reitman. “He portrayed the perfect New York mayor: a man of the people, firm, caring, and possessing a wonderful sense of humour – all reflections of who he really was. David Margulies will be sorely missed.”

Marguiles got his start as an actor in the 70s, first starring as Walter Mitty in Scarecrow in a Garden of Cucumbers. He went on to appear on the big screen in All That Jazz, Dressed to Kill, Times Square, Nine 1/2 Weeks, A Stranger Among Us, Ace Ventura Pet Detective, Ira & Abby, Fading Gigolo, A Most Violent Year and more.

On TV, Marguiles had roles on Kojak, Tales From the Darkside, Chicago Hope, NYPD Blue, Touched by an Angel, Law & Order, The Good Wife, Blue Bloods, and Happyish. At the time of his death, Marguiles was filming Madoff, in which he played Elie Wiesel.

Margulies was also a stage actor, who had appeared in more than a dozen Broadway shows.

Margulies is survived by his sister, son Jonathan, longtime partner Lois Smith, and a grandson.