“Revenge of the Nerds” star Donald Gibb dealt with a series of health issues leading up to his tragic death at the age of 71.
The actor was battling throat cancer and suffered a heart attack several weeks before his death, his son Travis told TMZ on Wednesday.
Travis has confirmed that his famous father’s death was due to cancer.
Travis said Gibb died Tuesday at his home in Texas surrounded by his loved ones.
In a heartbreaking statement, Gibb’s family said he “loved the Lord, his family, friends and fans with all his heart.”
“Known for his extraordinary on-screen presence and kindness off-screen, he brought joy, laughter and unforgettable memories to countless people throughout his life and career,” the family continued.
Additionally, they said the “Bloodsport” star “will be greatly missed and forever remembered.”
Gibb married his wife, Jacqueline Bauer, in 1981.
Besides Travis, he was also the father of Moana, Lehua, Mikal, and Olivia.
Gibb’s most famous role was as Ogre in Jeff Kanew’s 1984 film Revenge of the Nerds.
He also reprized the role in the 1987 film sequel Nerds in Paradise and the 1994 film Revenge of the Nerds IV: Nerds in Love.
Gibb played Ray Jackson in the 1988 film Bloodsport, and his most recent film credits include the role of Bass in the 2026 film Hands.
On the small screen, he appeared in many TV shows over the years, but his biggest role was that of Leslie “Dr. Death” Krunchner on “1st & Ten.”
Gibb’s death comes shortly after her Revenge of the Nerds co-star Robert Carradine died by suicide in February.
Carradine, who played Louis Skolnick, had suffered from bipolar disorder for 20 years, his brother previously revealed.
