Remembering The Life and Cause Of Death of Robert Morse

Robert Morse was a talented actor, singer, and comedian who entertained audiences for almost sixty years.

Robert was born in Newton, Massachusetts, and served in the U.S. Navy during the Korean War. Inspired by a high school drama teacher, he pursued acting and enrolled at New York City's prestigious Neighborhood Playhouse, where his older brother Richard was already studying. Additionally, he studied under Lee Strasberg. Morse made his stage debut in a 1949 production of 'Our Town' in New Hampshire.

He made his Broadway debut in 1955 in 'The Matchmaker,' a Thornton Wilder play that later served as the basis for the musical "Hello, Dolly!" where he portrayed "Barnaby Tucker". Following this, he appeared in an uncredited role in the 1956 film 'The Proud and Profane,' before making his credited big-screen debut in the film adaptation of 'The Matchmaker' two years later. 'The New York Times' praised Morse's performance, stating, "Robert Morse does a fine stint in re-creating his stage role as his wide-eyed, fellow adventurer."

In 1959, Robert Morse earned his first Tony nomination for Best Featured Actor in a Play for his role in the original hit comedy with music, "Say, Darling," where he humorously portrayed director Harold Prince. The following year, he received another Tony nomination for Best Actor in a Musical for his performance in 'Take Me Along,' a production also nominated for Best Musical and featuring Jackie Gleason and Walter Pidgeon.

While many know him as "Bertram Cooper" from AMC's 'Mad Men', Robert Morse had a rich career in both theater and film long before that role. He made his mark in the original Broadway production of 'How to Succeed in Business Without Really Trying' in 1961. His versatility led him to portray "Truman Capote" in 1989's 'Tru' and other notable roles in 'American Playhouse; in 1992.

Robert Morse was married twice during his lifetime. His first marriage was to Carole D'Andrea in 1961, and they had three daughters together Robin, Andrea, and Hilary, who all followed their father's footsteps and became actresses. However, Robert and Carole divorced in 1981.

Robert Morse's second marriage was to Elizabeth Roberts in 1989. They had a son named Charles Morse and a daughter named Allyn Morse. Robert and Elizabeth stayed together until his passing. He is survived by Elizabeth and his five children.

Robert Morse's family and friends have not disclosed his exact cause of death. Larry Karaszewski, a friend of Morse's and a member of the board of governors of the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences, announced Morse's passing on Twitter.

Larry Karaszewski announced on Twitter: "My good pal Bobby Morse has passed away at age 90. A huge talent and a beautiful spirit. Sending love to his son Charlie and daughter Allyn. Had so much fun hanging with Bobby over the years — filming The People v. O.J. Simpson and hosting so many screenings..."