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LEAVE IT TO BEAVER Star Tony Dow Dies at 77 After Cancer Battle

Jerry Mathers/Facebook

LEAVE IT TO BEAVER Star Tony Dow Dies at 77 After Cancer Battle

By Movieguide® Contributor

Tony Dow died at 77, his son announced Wednesday, July 27. The news comes after many outlets reported his death before the LEAVE IT TO BEAVER actor actually died.

The most recent post on his Facebook page reads:

Dear Family, Friends, & Fans
We have received confirmation from Christopher, Tony’s son, that Tony passed away earlier this morning, with his loving family at his side to see him through this journey.
We know that the world is collectively saddened by the loss of this incredible man. He gave so much to us all and was loved by so many. One fan said it best—“It is rare when there is a person who is so universally loved like Tony.”
Our heart goes out to Tony’s wife, Lauren, who will miss her soulmate of 42 years…To his son, Christopher, who will dearly miss his father, who was also his best friend…to his daughter-in-law, Melissa, who loved him like her own father…To his Granddaughter, Tyla, who will undoubtedly carry on her Grandfather’s kind soul, To his Brother Dion and Sister-in-Law, Judy, and to all of his extended family and friends. Words cannot express how much we will all feel his absence, but will cherish the memories he left to each and every one of us.
Christopher has stated: Although this is a very sad day, I have comfort and peace that he is in a better place. He was the best Dad anyone could ask for. He was my coach, my mentor, my voice of reason, my best friend, my best man in my wedding, and my hero. My wife said something powerful and shows the kind of man he was. She said: “Tony was such a kind man. He had such a huge heart and I’ve never heard Tony say a bad or negative thing about anyone.”
We respectfully ask that everyone give the family privacy in their time of mourning.

According to NPR, Dow’s death was confirmed by telephone by Frank Bilotta of the Bilotta Gallery which sells Dow’s sculpture.

Dow had been in hospice care for his battle against cancer.

Most know Dow from his role on LEAVE IT TO BEAVER, but he also appeared on shows like THE MOD SQUAD, GENERAL HOSPITAL, KNIGHT RIDER, and MURDER, SHE WROTE. 

Jerry Mathers, who played “Beaver” Cleaver to Dow’s Wally, remembered his on-screen brother with fondness.

“[It is with] the utmost sadness that I learned from Christopher, Tony’s son, that Tony passed away earlier this morning with his loving family by his side,” Mathers, who previously attended the Movieguide® Awards, posted to Facebook. “Tony was not only my brother on TV, but in many ways in life as well. He leaves an empty place in my heart that won’t be filled. Tony was always the kindest, most generous, gentle, loving, sincere, and humble man, and it was my honor and privilege to be able to share memories together with him for 65 years. Tony was so grateful for all of the kindness and support from our fans around the world and so much appreciated all the love. My wife Teresa and I send our deepest condolences to his wife Lauren, his family and to all of those who knew and loved him so very much. The world may have lost a star today, but the heavens gained another.”

In addition to acting, Dow made a name for himself directing, producing, and visual effects, working on DOCTOR WHO, STAR TREK: DEEP SPACE 9, and BABYLON 5. 

Movieguide® previously reported on Dow’s struggle with depression: 

The 76-year-old told Fox News that his child stardom led to anger and resentment when he didn’t land roles afterward.

“I’d like to do some other stuff. I’d like to do some interesting stuff. You know, it’s sad to be famous at 12 years old or something, and then you grow up and become a real person, and nothing’s happening to you,” he confessed.

“Anger, if it’s untreated, anger turns to depression,” Dow continued. “But depression isn’t something you can say ‘cheer up!’ about. You know, it’s a very powerful thing. And it’s had a lot of effect on my life.”

Dow said that therapy, medication, and pursuing his love for art helped him see the purpose in life. A realization that he wants to share with others who struggle with depression.

“I think people should take the leap of faith that they can feel better,” he added.

Dow said that he was typecast as Wally Cleaver for much of his life but eventually changed his perspective to one of thankfulness for appearing on LEAVE IT TO BEAVER.

Now more than ever we’re bombarded by darkness in media, movies, and TV. Movieguide® has fought back for almost 40 years, working within Hollywood to propel uplifting and positive content. We’re proud to say we’ve collaborated with some of the top industry players to influence and redeem entertainment for Jesus. Still, the most influential person in Hollywood is you. The viewer.

What you listen to, watch, and read has power. Movieguide® wants to give you the resources to empower the good and the beautiful. But we can’t do it alone. We need your support.

You can make a difference with as little as $7. It takes only a moment. If you can, consider supporting our ministry with a monthly gift. Thank you.

Movieguide® is a 501c3 and all donations are tax deductible.


Now more than ever we’re bombarded by darkness in media, movies, and TV. Movieguide® has fought back for almost 40 years, working within Hollywood to propel uplifting and positive content. We’re proud to say we’ve collaborated with some of the top industry players to influence and redeem entertainment for Jesus. Still, the most influential person in Hollywood is you. The viewer.

What you listen to, watch, and read has power. Movieguide® wants to give you the resources to empower the good and the beautiful. But we can’t do it alone. We need your support.

You can make a difference with as little as $7. It takes only a moment. If you can, consider supporting our ministry with a monthly gift. Thank you.

Movieguide® is a 501c3 and all donations are tax deductible.