Ralph Ann, who played Nick Miller’s elderly friend, Tran New girl, died on February 26. He was 95 years old. The news of his death was announced by the Korean-American Federation of Los Angeles (KAFLA) in social networks.
The publication, originally written in Korean, reads:
Above all, I am deeply shocked and saddened by the sudden death of the late teacher Ralph Ann.
Ralph Ann is the only surviving direct descendant of the nation’s teacher, Dosan Ann Chang-ho, and he dedicated his life to passing on the spirit and faith of Dosan to his descendants.
He was also the greatest spiritual leader of our time, surviving the time and history that passed on the aspirations of many activists for independence from the past generation to our current generation.
Even the now-moving image of Korea marching with Lee Sook Huang during the 100th anniversary of the March 1 Movement held on Wilshire Street in 2019, with a vigorous mastery of Taegeukgi, is as vivid as yesterday, with an emotion that our generation will never forget. The Korean Association of Los Angeles, on behalf of the Korean community in Los Angeles, deeply mourns the news of Ralph Ann’s death and expresses its deepest condolences to the grieving family.
Jake Johnson paid tribute to his deceased New girl partner with an Instagram post on February 28 that reads: “RIP. So much fun to work with. He gave so much literally without remarks. I loved it when he was on set. I’ve always expected to work with him again. Condolences to his family / friends. ”
Lamorn Morris, who played Winston New girltoo went to Instagram to pay tribute to Anne, writing: “Damn. RIP to Ralph Ann. He plays Tran in New Girl. Always the funniest scenes in the episode. This man has lived a long life, keep your friends and family in all thoughts and prayers. ”
Olivia Munn, who played Angie, one of Nick’s friends on the show, wrote in a story on Instagram: “Thank you, Ralph Ann, for being the best. You have brought so much joy into our lives and helped pave the way for all the AAPI actors who would follow you. We love you. REST IN PEACE.”
While Tran became his most recognizable character, Anne had small roles in various other hit TV shows, including Gilmore girls, The King of Queens, The Golden Girlsand The good life. His last time on the screen was for New girl finale of the series in 2018