West Wing star John Spencer has died at the age of 58 after suffering a heart attack.
The Emmy award winner played Leo McGarry, a candidate for the Vice Presidency in the seventh series of the hit show.

Previously McGarry was White House Chief of Staff, and in a cruel irony he had to quit his job after suffering a heart attack.
Ron Hofmann, a spokesman for Spencer, said he had no knowledge of whether the actor suffered from a heart condition or other ailment that would have caused a heart attack.

Like his West Wing character, Spencer was an acknowledged alcoholic, but quit drinking many years ago.
Spencer, who would have turned 59 next week, was not married and had no children.


A sad day indeed, he will be truly missed :(

I agree with the sentiment, a bitter irony too. Such a fine actor, who's presence added the weight to a great tv show.
Let that be his legacy.

I have nothing to add except to agree with the sentiment of the original poster - a sad day indeed.

He, indeed, will be missed.