Marty Nadler, a multifaceted entertainer who made significant contributions to television and film, has passed away at age 80. The Bronx native died in Margate, Florida, on August 26 due to complications from myasthenia gravis, according to his son Charlie Nadler.
Throughout his career, Nadler established himself as a talented writer and performer, working on beloved television series including “Happy Days,” “Laverne and Shirley,” and “The Odd Couple.” His creative partnership with filmmaker Gary Marshall proved particularly fruitful, as he contributed comedic material to nine of Marshall’s films, including “Pretty Woman,” “Runaway Bride,” and “Mother’s Day.” Marshall frequently cast Nadler in cameo roles, valuing him as his personal good luck charm.
Nadler’s professional life intertwined with his personal journey when he met his future wife Holly Mascott while writing for “Laverne and Shirley” in 1976. The couple married in 1978 and established a home on Martha’s Vineyard, where they raised their son Charlie. Following in his father’s footsteps, Charlie became a stand-up comedian, and the two performed together across the country. Their collaborative special, “A Boomer and A Millennial Walk Into a Special,” recorded at The Garry Marshall Theatre in Los Angeles, is slated for release in early 2027 by Comedy Dynamics.
Nadler is survived by his ex-wife, whom he remained close with, his son, and daughter-in-law Cary Kandel. He will be laid to rest on Martha’s Vineyard.
Originally reported by Variety →
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