Penny Marshal and Eddie Mekka in a scene from "Laverne & Shirley."
(CNN) -
Eddie Mekka, famous for playing Carmine "The Big Ragoo" Ragusa, on the hit series "Laverne & Shirley," died Saturday at his home in Newhall, California, according to his official Facebook account.
He was 69 years old.
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Details about the cause of his death were not immediately released.
Eddie Mekka played Shirley's love interest on the show.
Cindy Williams, who played Shirley, tweeted: "My dear Eddie, a world-class talent who could do it all. I love you so much. I will miss you so much. But oh, the wonderful memories."
The hit series aired on ABC from 1976 to 1983.
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Born in Massachusetts, Mekka moved to Los Angeles and ended up earning a Tony nomination for her lead role in "The Lieutenant" on Broadway in 1975.
Eddie Mekka had roles in "The Love Boat," "Family Matters," "Guiding Light," and "It's Always Sunny in Philadelphia."
CNN has reached out to the Mekka representative for comment.
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