Eddie Mekka, the Tony-nominated actor best known for his role as Carmine “The Big Ragu” Ragusa of “Laverne & Shirley,” has died. He was 69.
The veteran TV and stage actor’s passing was confirmed Thursday via his official Facebook fan page. No cause of death has been revealed at this time.
“It is with deep regret that we share with you the passing of our beloved Eddie Mekka. Eddie passed away peacefully in his Newhall, California home on Saturday, November 27, 2021,” the announcement reads. “He was 69 years old. At this time, we do ask that all media inquiries be withheld during his family’s time of grief and mourning. We welcome you to share your memories of Eddie and your condolences to his family on this fan page. Rest In Peace Eddie.”
Mekka played Shirley Feeney’s crooner boyfriend, Carmine, on the “Happy Days” spinoff starring Penny Marshall as Laverne and Cindy Williams as Shirley. The series aired between 1976 and 1983 on ABC, and later in syndication. His character — the loyal sweetheart of Williams’ Shirley — was known to break out into song, often belting out the Tony Bennett-inspired catchphrase, “You know I’d go from rags to riches!”
Williams, 74, told The Post her “darling” leading man was “a world class talent who could do it all. I love you dearly. I’ll miss you so much. But oh the marvelous memories.”
The multitalented entertainer got his start at the Worcester County Light Opera in Massachusetts as a voice instructor before landing his first major role in 1975, in Broadway’s “The Lieutenant,” earning him a Tony nomination.
Mekka was also a series regular in “Blansky’s Beauties” (1977), and later appeared elsewhere throughout his television career in various cameo roles, including “The Young and the Restless,” “The Bold and the Beautiful” and “It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia.” And, in one memorable moment from the Marshall-directed “A League of Their Own” (1992), he shared a scene-stealing dance with Madonna (“Mae”) at a bar.
“Laverne & Shirley” co-star Marshall died in 2018, and David L. Lander, who played Andrew “Squiggy” Squiggman in the show, passed away last year. Comedian Michael McKean (Lenny Kosnowski) and Williams are now the only surviving stars from the beloved series.
