Stage and Screen Star John Pinette Dies at 50

Stage and screen star John Pinette was found dead in a Pittsburgh hotel room April 5. According to The Hollywood Reporter,  he died of natural causes.

Pinette starred as Edna Turnblad in Hairspray on Broadway and on tour. He was a funnyman known for joking about his size: "My cholesterol count has a comma!” Pinette was named Stand-Up Comedian of the Year by the American Comedy Awards in 1999 and received a Gemini Award nomination for his television performance at the Montreal Comedy Festival in 2000. His numerous screen credits included Junior, Dear God, Duets, The Punisher, Vinnie & Bobby, Parker Lewis Can't Lose, High Tide and Seinfeld.

Pinette was 50 years old.