Carol Ann Susi, who played Mrs. Wolowitz on The Big Bang Theory, has died after a battle with cancer. She was 62.

Carol Ann Susi Dies

Susi played the mother of Simon Helberg’s character Howard Wolowitz throughout the eight seasons of The Big Bang Theory. Though she was never seen onscreen, her husky, booming, Brooklyn-accented voice yelling, “Howard!” became a staple of the CBS sitcom. Big Bang Theory producers confirmed Susi’s death on Tuesday, reported The Hollywood Reporter.

“The Big Bang Theory family has lost a beloved member today with the passing of Carol Ann Susi,” Warner Bros. and the show’s producers, Chuck Lorre, Steve Molaro and Bill Prady, said in a statement. “Unseen by viewers, the Mrs. Wolowitz character became a bit of a mystery throughout the show’s eight seasons. What was not a mystery, however, was Carol Ann’s immense talent and comedic timing, which were on display during each unforgettable appearance.”

The producers’ statement continued, “In addition to her talent, Carol Ann was a constant source of joy and kindness to all. Our thoughts and deepest condolences are with her family during this time, and we will miss her greatly.”

The Big Bang Theory stars, upon learning of Susi’s passing, have taken to social media to express their loss:

Susi, determined to launch an acting career, took off for Los Angeles from New York in the mid 70s. She quickly found work on TV and in film. In the 80s and 90s, she went on to appear in Who’s the Boss, Growing Pains, Murphy Brown, Cheers, Doogie Howser, M.D., Mad About You, Married with Children, ER, and Just Shoot Me!  In more recent years, she had guest roles on Six Feet Under, The King of Queens, Ugly Betty, Grey’s Anatomy and more.

“Carol Ann drew fervent circles of followers,” a statement from Susi’s publicist said. “She was a force of nature who didn’t suffer fools and was fiercely loyal to her friends.”

Susi is survived by her brother Michael Susi, his wife Connie and a number of friends.

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