Estelle Harris and Jason Alexander in 2003Photo: Kevin Winter/Getty Images (Getty Images)
In a series of tweets, actor Jason Alexander remembered his Seinfeld co-star Estelle Harris following her April 2 death.
On the hit NBC series, Harris portrayed Estelle Costanza – the overbearing mother of Alexander’s George Costanza – in 27 episodes throughout the show’s run. She appeared frequently alongside Jerry Stiller, who played her husband and George’s father, Frank Costanza.
“One of my favorite people has passed away – my TV mom, Estelle Harris,” Alexander tweeted. “The joy of playing with her and enjoying her lovely laugh was a treat. I adore you Estelle. love to your family. Serenity now and always. #RIPEstelleHarris.”
In another tweet, Alexander added, “Thanks to all of you for your kind and sweet messages and memories of #EstelleHarris. She would be so touched. Like me. And as she would say, ‘WHY CAN’T YOU BE MORE LOYD BROWN!!??’”
Harris became an actress later in life after raising her three children, making her acting debut in the 1977 Linda Yellen film Looking Up. After being a spokesperson and guest-starring on shows like Night Court, Married… With Children, Mad About You, and Law & Order, Harris first appeared in the Seinfeld episode “The Contest.”
The late actress was also known for lending her voice to Mrs. Potato Head in the Toy Story films. She built a strong voice acting resume, appearing in Futurama, Hercules, Family Guy, and many others. Her last role was the voice of Mrs. Potato Head in 2019’s Toy Story 4.
The announcement of her death from natural causes was made by her son Glen Harris on Saturday. He confirmed the news to Deadline.
“It is with the utmost regret and sadness that we announce that Estelle Harris passed away at 6:25 p.m. this evening,” Harris said. “Her kindness, passion, sensitivity, humor, empathy and love were virtually unrivaled and she will be terribly missed by all who knew her.”