Gavin MacLeod, who is perhaps best known for appearances on The Love Boat and The Mary Tyler Moore Show, has died at the age of 90.

MacLeod's nephew, Mark See, confirmed the news to TMZ, revealing that the beloved star had passed away overnight early Saturday morning at his home in Palm Desert, California.

MacLeod's ex-wife, Joan Devore, told the news outlet that the actor had been in and out of hospital over the last few months battling various illnesses - but that his death was not Covid-related.

That being said, Devore was unable to confirm MacLeod cause of death.

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Following a celebrated career that spanned six decades, MacLeod will be most fondly remembered for his role as Joseph "Happy" Haines on the 60s show McHale's Navy, as Murray Slaughter on The Mary Tyler Moore Show throughout the 70s, and as Captain Merrill Stubing on ABC's The Love Boat.

Speaking to CNN back in 2013, MacLeod addressed the fact that The Love Boat had never received positive reviews from TV critics. He told the station: "The critics hated our show.

"But I remember when we went to church one Sunday. A lady stopped me, and said, 'Aren't you the captain?' I say, 'Yes.' She says, 'I love the messages you give us, because they're covered with cotton candy.' What a great phrase that is. And writing on that level is very hard to do."

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These iconic roles led to MacLeod becoming a familiar face on late-night shows, TV specials, talks shows, games shows, and more.

Born in Mount Kisco, New York, in 1931, MacLeod earned his bachelor's degree in fine arts from Ithaca College in 1952. Prior to pursuing an acting career, he also served in the US Air Force.

Up until the end of his career, MacLeod had amassed over 100 acting roles spanning decades.

He is survived by his wife Patti Kendig - whom he married for a second time back in 1985 - and their four children and grandchildren.

Our thoughts are with MacLeod's family, friends, and fans at this time.

Featured image credit: Everett Collection Inc / Alamy

'The Love Boat' and 'Mary Tyler Moore Show' star Gavin MacLeod has died aged 90