Hollywood mourns the loss of Bud Cort, the acclaimed actor known for his unforgettable turn in the 1971 cult classic Harold and Maude. Cort died on February 11, 2026, at the age of 77 in Norwalk, Connecticut, after a long illness, confirmed by close friends and industry sources. Today’s news brings sorrow to fans across generations as tributes pour in for one of cinema’s most distinct screen personalities. From groundbreaking roles to a resilient career that spanned decades, here’s a complete breakdown of his life, work, and what happened in his final days.
Who Was Bud Cort
Bud Cort, born Walter Edward Cox on March 29, 1948, was an American actor known for his quirky, unforgettable roles. He gained fame as Harold Chasen in the 1971 cult classic Harold and Maude, earning Golden Globe and BAFTA nominations. His career spanned film, television, and voice acting, making him a beloved figure in Hollywood and among fans worldwide.
What Happened to the Harold and Maude Star Bud Cort
Bud Cort, born Walter Edward Cox on March 29, 1948, in Rye, New York, passed away on February 11, 2026, at 77 years old. He died after battling complications from a long illness, later confirmed as pneumonia, a condition that worsened over time and ultimately led to his passing at a care facility in Connecticut.
Cort’s death was confirmed by his longtime friend and television producer, Dorian Hannaway, who shared that while specifics of his health struggles were not fully public, the illness had taken a toll over recent months.
Bud Cort’s Legendary Career: From Stage Comedy to Harold and Maude Stardom
Bud Cort’s arrival in Hollywood came after early work in stage and comedy. His breakthrough role came in 1971 with Harold and Maude directed by Hal Ashby, an offbeat comedy that became a defining moment in his career. In Harold and Maude, Cort played Harold Chasen, a young man obsessed with death who forms an unlikely bond with a free-spirited 79-year-old woman named Maude. Though the film initially underperformed at the box office, it grew into a beloved cult classic, praised for its humor, bold themes, and soulful performances. The role earned him nominations for both a Golden Globe Award and a BAFTA Award, cementing his place as one of Hollywood’s most memorable character actors.
Bud Cort’s Iconic Filmography: Beyond Harold and Maude
Beyond Harold and Maude, Cort’s career was varied and substantial:
- He appeared in Robert Altman classics like MASH* and Brewster McCloud, early roles that showcased his range.
- Cort appeared in hit films such as Heat, Dogma, Pollock, Coyote Ugly, and The Life Aquatic with Steve Zissou.
- His voice acting extended to DC Animated Universe series, including Superman: The Animated Series, Static Shock, and Justice League Unlimited.
He also made notable television appearances and earned respect for his comic timing, dramatic depth, and ability to make offbeat characters feel deeply human.
Fans and Hollywood Pay Tribute to Bud Cort After His Passing
News of Bud Cort’s passing sparked immediate reaction across social media and film communities. Fans shared memories of Harold and Maude, citing the film’s emotional depth and powerful impact on generations. Online threads described Cort’s unique presence on screen, his voices in animation, and heartfelt moments from his performances.
Colleagues and admirers noted his contribution to cinema, celebrating his willingness to explore unconventional roles and emotional honesty in acting.
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Bud Cort’s Legacy in Hollywood
Bud Cort’s legacy is defined by his courage to take on unconventional roles that challenged audiences and broadened the scope of character acting in American cinema. His portrayal of Harold remains a cultural touchstone, celebrated for both its emotional honesty and its whimsical spirit. As Hollywood continues to evolve, Cort’s performances remind viewers why cinema’s most memorable stars are often those who choose bold, distinct characters.
