Carol Ann Susi, who played Mrs. Wolowitz on the CBS hit comedy The Big Bang Theory, has passed away from cancer at the age of 62.
Susi passed away early Tuesday. Show producers Chuck Lorre, Steve Molaro, and Bill Prady released a statement regarding the passing of Susi:
“The Big Bang Theory family has lost a beloved member today with the passing of Carol Ann Susi, who hilariously and memorably voiced the role of Mrs. Wolowitz,” the statement read. “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. 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.”
Susi’s Mrs Wolowitz character was an interesting addition to The Big Bang Theory, as her character was heard and never seen on the show. There were some who thought they saw her on one episode, but for the entirety of the series she remained off camera.
Carol Ann Susi was born in Brooklyn and moved to the Los Angeles area in the 70s. She landed a spot on ABC’s The Night Stalker, and would go on to make guest appearances in Cheers, Doogie Howser, M.D., Mad About You, Just Shoot Me, Seinfeld and Six Feet Under. Her most famous television appearance was on an episode of Seinfeld where she went out on a doomed date with George Costanza. That famous 1992 episode also featured New York Mets infielder Keith Hernandez.
There is no plan to replace Carol Ann Susi on The Big Bang Theory as of yet, however, Melissa Rauch, who plays Bernadette on the show, does a great impression of Mrs. Wolowitz.
Read more: The Big Bang Theory’s Steven Molaro Talks Billy Bob Thornton’s Guest Appearance