Neysa Beauregard

Written by Neysa Beauregard

Modified & Updated: 04 Mar 2024

Sherman Smith

Reviewed by Sherman Smith

15-surprising-facts-about-david-lander
Source: Chicagotribune.com

David Lander, the beloved American actor and comedian, is widely recognized for his memorable role as “Squiggy” in the iconic sitcom “Laverne & Shirley.” While many fans know him for his hilarious on-screen antics, there are numerous surprising facts about David Lander that are lesser known. From his remarkable voice acting career to his inspiring journey with a life-altering health condition, Lander’s life and accomplishments extend far beyond his sitcom fame. In this article, we will delve into the depths of David Lander’s life and uncover 15 fascinating facts that will leave you astounded. So, fasten your seatbelts and get ready to embark on a thrilling ride through the intriguing world of David Lander!

Key Takeaways:

  • David Lander, known for his role as Squiggy, battled multiple sclerosis while inspiring others and pursuing his passion for acting, music, and philanthropy.
  • David Lander’s infectious laugh, versatile talents, and dedication to raising awareness about multiple sclerosis left a lasting impact on the entertainment industry and beyond.
Table of Contents

David Lander was best known for his iconic role as Squiggy on the hit sitcom, “Laverne & Shirley”.

David Lander gained fame and recognition for his portrayal of the lovable and quirky character, Squiggy, on the popular sitcom “Laverne & Shirley”. His unique voice and comedic timing made him a fan favorite.

He was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis (MS) in 1984.

In a shocking turn of events, David Lander was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis, a chronic autoimmune disease affecting the central nervous system. Despite his health challenges, he continued to persevere in his career and became an inspiration to many.

David Lander was also a talented voice actor.

In addition to his on-screen roles, Lander lent his voice to various animated characters, including playing the role of Smart Ass in Disney’s “Who Framed Roger Rabbit”. His distinctive voice brought life to these memorable characters.

He was a dedicated advocate for raising awareness about multiple sclerosis.

After his MS diagnosis, Lander became actively involved in several organizations dedicated to spreading awareness and raising funds for research towards finding a cure for multiple sclerosis. He used his platform to educate others about the disease and provide support to those affected.

David Lander was not just an actor but also an accomplished baseball scout.

Aside from his successful acting career, Lander had a passion for baseball and even worked as a scout for the Anaheim Angels. His love for the sport was evident throughout his life.

He had a close friendship with his “Laverne & Shirley” co-star, Michael McKean.

The on-screen chemistry between David Lander and Michael McKean, who played Lenny on “Laverne & Shirley”, extended beyond the show. The two actors shared a close friendship and often collaborated on various projects.

David Lander made appearances in popular TV shows such as “Twin Peaks” and “Walker, Texas Ranger”.

Throughout his career, Lander made guest appearances on numerous television series, showcasing his versatility as an actor. His memorable performances left a lasting impression on audiences.

He was an accomplished writer and penned a memoir titled “Fall Down, Laughing: How Squiggy Caught Multiple Sclerosis and Didn’t Tell Nobody”.

In his memoir, David Lander shared his personal journey with multiple sclerosis and how he found humor and strength amidst adversity. The book offered a heartfelt and humorous account of his life.

Lander had a passion for music and was a member of the band “The Overland Stage Electric Band”.

David Lander’s love for music led him to join “The Overland Stage Electric Band”, a musical group known for their eclectic sound. He showcased his musical talents by playing the guitar and harmonica.

He provided the voice for several video game characters.

David Lander’s voice acting skills extended to the world of video games, where he lent his talent to characters in popular games such as “King’s Quest VI: Heir Today, Gone Tomorrow” and “Puppeteer”.

David Lander was a philanthropist and actively supported various charitable causes.

Throughout his life, Lander was dedicated to giving back to the community and supporting charitable organizations. He believed in using his platform for positive change.

He was involved in the creation and production of the animated series “Oswald”.

Lander played a significant role in the development of the beloved children’s animated series “Oswald“, which centered around a blue octopus and his adventures. His contributions helped bring the show to life.

David Lander was born on June 22, 1947, in Brooklyn, New York.

Originally from Brooklyn, New York, Lander’s early life laid the foundation for his eventual success in the entertainment industry.

His distinctive laugh became one of his trademarks.

David Lander’s infectious laugh, often heard during his performances, became one of his trademarks and endeared him to audiences all over the world.

He passed away on December 4, 2020, at the age of 73.

The world mourned the loss of David Lander as news of his passing spread. His contributions to the entertainment industry and his advocacy for multiple sclerosis will always be remembered.

Conclusion

In conclusion, David Lander was truly a remarkable individual, whose talent and dedication brought joy to millions. From his iconic role as Squiggy on “Laverne & Shirley” to his remarkable voice-over work in “Who Framed Roger Rabbit,” Lander left an indelible mark on the entertainment industry.Through this article, we learned about 15 surprising facts about David Lander, including his battle with multiple sclerosis, his impressive voice-over career, and his philanthropic efforts. Lander’s ability to overcome adversity and continue pursuing his passions serves as an inspiration to all.As we reflect on his life and career, we can’t help but be amazed by his talent, charisma, and enduring legacy. David Lander will forever be remembered as a true icon, bringing laughter and joy to the world. His contribution to the entertainment industry will never be forgotten.

FAQs

Q: What is David Lander’s most famous role?

A: David Lander is best known for his role as Andrew “Squiggy” Squiggman in the hit TV show “Laverne & Shirley.”

Q: Did David Lander battle with any health issues?

A: Yes, David Lander fought a long and brave battle with multiple sclerosis.

Q: What other voice-over work did David Lander do?

A: David Lander lent his voice to a variety of projects, most notably as the character Smart Ass in the animated film “Who Framed Roger Rabbit.”

Q: What philanthropic efforts was David Lander involved in?

A: David Lander was a strong advocate for multiple sclerosis research and worked tirelessly to raise awareness and funds for the cause.

Q: How will David Lander be remembered?

A: David Lander will be remembered as a talented actor, comedian, and philanthropist who touched the lives of many with his memorable performances and inspiring resilience.

David Lander's life and career were truly remarkable. If you enjoyed learning about this talented actor, why not explore more fascinating facts about other notable figures? Discover the incredible journey of Cindy Williams, Lander's co-star on "Laverne & Shirley". Dive into the captivating world of Daniel Day Lewis, a renowned actor known for his dedication to his craft. Additionally, learn about Ann Romney's inspiring story and her battle with multiple sclerosis, a cause close to David Lander's heart.

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