‘Golden Girls’ actor Chick Vennera dies at 74

Actor Chick Vennera died from cancer Wednesday at his home in Burbank.

The prolific performer was 74.

According to Deadline, Vennera’s death was confirmed by his daughter Nicky Vennera.

Vennera was perhaps most well-known for his appearing as multiple characters, including a Cuban boxer and a big-headed TV consumer affairs reporter named Enrique Mas, on “The Golden Girls.”

Vennera also had a scene-stealing dance scene in the Donna Summer-starring disco comedy “Thank God It’s Friday.”

Animation fans would have been familiar with his voice, as well. Vennera has a long list of voiceover credits, including “The Animaniacs,” where he voiced Pesto a wiseguy pigeon based on Joe Pesci’s character from “Goodfellas.”

Born Francis Vennera in Herkimer, New York in 1947, he moved to California after high school and trained at the Pasadena Playhouse. After serving in the Army, Vennera, going professionally as Chick, was cast in “Grease” and performed on Broadway and with the national touring company of the classic musical.

Vennera then transitioned to TV and movies where he worked steadily for several decades, including a significant role in Robert Redford’s “Milagro Beanfield War.”

Vennera is survived by his wife Suzanne Vennera in addition to his daughter.