BTN News: Hiram Kasten, one of the most recognizable faces from hit UK and US television series including Saved by the Bell, Seinfeld, and Curb Your Enthusiasm has died at the age of 71 The New York Post is reporting that Kasten passed away at his Batavia, New York home after a long fight with prostate cancer. The actor, who had been celebrating their 38th wedding anniversary Sunday, was at his Manhattan apartment when he died with his wife, Diana Kisiel Kastenbaum, by his side.
Kasten struglled with health problems for many years. Besides the prostate cancer, he had been dealing with Crohn’s disease for the last seven years. Even as he worsened, Kasten kept a brave face, only telling close friends in the final six or so months that his illness was terminal.
His comedy and art communities, however, rallied around the actor in his final months. Batavia friends and co-workers visited, and after midnight at least two days a week, Kasten laughed and reminisced with group Zoom chats that Diana Kasten said likely added two months to his life.
Comedy and Television Legacy
One of Kasten’s most well-known roles was Michael on “Seinfeld,” from 1993 to 1994. He started his comedy career at one of NYC’s most famous comedy clubs, The Comic Strip, where he became friends with Jerry Seinfeld. Both this friendship, and his appearances at the club further established his presence in the NYC comedy scene.
Kasten also guested on “Saved By the Bell,” “The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air,” “Cybill,” “Mad About You,” “Everybody Loves Raymond” and other series and had a recurring role as Father Taylor on “Growing Pains.” During the early 2000s, he appeared in guest roles on Curb Your Enthusiasm, Sabrina the Teenage Witch, My Wife and Kids, and 7th Heaven.
Personal Life and Tributes
Hiram Kasten (His wife Diana their daughter Millicent Jade) (His brother in law) (Kevin John Kisiel) While his death brings a bow to what has been an incredibly impactful career in television and comedy, the presence he left behind from each performance and every interaction he had with his peers and fans remains.
In 2017, Kasten was forced to step away from performing and pursuing his career which saw his health worsen. But the resilience and love of his family and friends enabled him to face his trials with bravery and wit.
In his last months, Kasten went to the grave, it was not some breed of loneliness or misery that mattered to his friends, it was the love and laughter from the support received by his family, his wife Diana said. The comedy world which had banded around him was a reflection of the deep connections he made in life.
Remembering Hiram Kasten
Hiram Kasten Hiram Kasten Hiram Kasten has done so much in Television and Comedy Contributed to the industry. His work may become classic and influence a lot of actors and future comedians. With fans and friends mourning his loss, it is Kasten’s ability and friendship fans will remember as his legacy in soccer will live on.
