Michael Alaimo, the seasoned actor known for his roles in Space Jam and The China Syndrome, has passed away, with news of his death surfacing on May 21, 2025. Over the course of a six-decade career, Alaimo became a familiar face in both film and television, leaving a lasting impression through his work in Hollywood and his early contributions to avant-garde theater.
Here’s what we know so far about Michael Alaimo’s death.
Michael Alaimo cause of death explained
Michael Alaimo, the veteran actor known for roles in Space Jam and The China Syndrome, died on May 2, 2025, in Burbank, California. He was 86.
His daughter, TV PR executive Gabriella Alaimo Thomas, confirmed his death to Variety, stating he “passed away peacefully.” No cause of death has been disclosed.
Alaimo’s career spanned over six decades, encompassing avant-garde theater, television, and film. He appeared in Space Jam (1996) as a doctor alongside Michael Jordan, Wayne Knight, and Bill Murray, and in the Oscar-nominated The China Syndrome. His other film credits include Mr. Mom and All I Want for Christmas.
On television, Alaimo had recurring roles and guest appearances on notable series such as Cheers, The Wonder Years, Scrubs, Barney Miller, Mr. Belvedere, Hill Street Blues, and Betty White’s Off Their Rockers. He also played early roles in The Six Million Dollar Man, Cannon, and Harry O.
He began studying theater at Brooklyn College and performed with Joseph Papp’s Shakespeare in Central Park from 1961 to 1964. During that time, he led a commedia dell’arte troupe and was active in East Harlem’s Gut Theatre. He later toured with the anti-war production F.T.A. in San Francisco before relocating to Los Angeles in 1973, where his screen career accelerated.
Michael Alaimo played his final role in the biographical film Sinatra! Eternity, appearing alongside Michael Madsen, Eric Roberts, and Harry Dean Stanton. His wife Louise, daughters Gabrielle and Giovanna, son-in-law David, and granddaughters Isabella and Malia survive him.
Originally reported by Vritti Johar on ComingSoon.net.
