Frank Gorshin, the Riddler on the 1960s TV hit Batman, died yesterday at age 72.
Gorshin won an Emmy for his portrayal of the riddling criminal. He died with his wife and friends at Providence St. Joseph Medical Center.
Lung cancer, emphysema and pneumonia were among his maladies.
"It really was a catalyst for me," Gorshin told AP regarding the Riddler role. "I was nobody. I had done some guest shots here and there. But after I did that, I became a headliner in Vegas, so I can't put it down."
Adam West (Bruce Wayne/Batman) said the death of his longtime friend was a big loss.
"Frank will be missed," West said. "He was a friend and fascinating character."
Gorshin got an another Emmy for a guest-shot on Star Trek.