Entertainment

James Caan, veteran 'Godfather' and 'Elf' actor, dies at 82

David K. Li
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Actor James Caan attends Humane Society of The United States' annual To The Rescue! Los Angeles benefit at Paramount Studios on April 22, 2017 in Hollywood, California.
Jason Laveris | Filmmagic | Getty Images

Movie tough guy James Caan, best known for his work in such big-screen classics as "The Godfather," "Misery" and "Elf," died on Wednesday, his family said.

He was 82.

"It is with great sadness that we inform you of the passing of Jimmy on the evening of July 6," according to a family statement posted to Twitter.

"The family appreciates the outpouring of love and heartfelt condolences and asks that you continue to respect their privacy during this difficult time."

In recent years, Caan was active on Twitter, often posting pictures of himself and friends from classic movies.

He almost always ended his online missives with, "End of tweet," and Thursday's announcement did so as well.

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Al Pacino, Marlon Brando, James Caan, and John Cazale publicity portrait for the film 'The Godfather', 1972.
Paramount | Moviepix | Getty Images

Caan's Twitter feed served as a Hollywood history book, as he worked with a galaxy of Tinseltown stars throughout his long career.

"So sorry to hear the news. I loved working with him," actor and "Misery" director Rob Reiner tweeted.

"And the only Jew I knew who could calf rope with the best of them. Love to the family."

Caan will probably be best remembered as "The Godfather's" Sonny Corleone, the hot-headed oldest son of mob boss Vito Corleone, played by Marlon Brando.

He twitted a picture of he and Brando on June 10 with the simple message: "The Best. End of tweet."

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