Donald Gibb recently passed away at the age of 71. However, it has now been revealed that he was dealing with health problems leading up to his passing. According to his son, Travis, who was speaking with TMZ, Donald was battling throat cancer. He'd also suffered a heart attack just weeks before passing away.
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Travis also confirmed that his dad's cause of death was due to cancer.
"We're told Donald was a fighter who battled the disease relentlessly, never losing his toughness even as his health declined," TMZ reported.
Donald's family released a statement following his death. The statement began by sharing his faith, noting how he "loved the Lord and his family, his friends and his fans with all his heart."
"Known for his larger-than-life presence on screen and his kindness off screen, he brought joy, laughter, and unforgettable memories to countless people throughout his life and career," the statement continued, before ending by stating how he would be "deeply missed and forever remembered."
Donald had five children: Travis, Moana, Lehua, Mykkal, and Oliva. He also leaves behind his wife, Jacqueline Bauer, whom he married in 1981. No information regarding his funeral has been made public. The details will likely remains with family and close friends.
Donald Gibb Had Over 100 Acting Credits to His Name
Donald is best remembered for his role in Revenge Of The Nerds and the cult classic Bloodsport. However, they weren't the only roles he played on screen. Donald's career began with an uncredited role on Any Which Way You Can in 1980. He followed that up with an uncredited role on Stripes the following year.
It wasn't until 1983 that Donald landed his first credited role, playing Moose on Alice. Later that year, he made a one-episode appearance on The A-Team and had two episodes on Magnum PI. Both of those shows were leading network television productions and likely acted as a launch pad. Of course, Knight Rider was also on his list of one-episode show appearances.
Nevertheless, it was his role as the Orge in Revenge Of The Nerds that shot Donald to fame, along with Bloodsport. His last appearance on screen came in 2026, when he played Bas in Hands.
Donald will be missed.
