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Hollywood Loses Another Star to Mesothelioma

Famed Character Actor Ed Lauter Dies of Rare Asbestos Cancer at 74

You may not recognize his name but you know his face. Famed character actor Ed Lauter died of mesothelioma, a rare and deadly asbestos-related cancer, in October 2013. Just last month an asbestos lawsuit was filed by his family against the television networks that had employed Mr. Lauter during his long acting career.

Mesothelioma is an aggressive cancer that can attack the lining of the lungs or stomach. The only known cause of this terminal cancer is asbestos, a mineral once valued for its versatility and resistance to high heat. Prior to the 1980s, asbestos was used extensively in a wide range of products and industries. It was also known to be used in set construction for movies and television and is likely how Mr. Lauter was exposed to asbestos.

A Veteran actor from the silver screen to the small screen, Mr. Lauter appeared in a variety of movies and TV shows throughout his nearly 40 year career. Some of his latest work included the Oscar-winning film, “The Artist” and television shows such as “The Office” and “ER.” He was diagnosed with mesothelioma in June 2013 and died four months later at the age of 74.

Court documents show that the Lauter family’s lawsuit alleges that major networks CBS and NBC are responsible for the actor’s untimely death due to repeated exposure to asbestos in the TV studios. The networks and other companies listed in the complaint are accused of failing to warn and protect Mr. Lauter from asbestos exposure.

Other Hollywood stars who have lost their lives to mesothelioma include:

  • Army Archerd (1922-2009)
  • Paul Gleason (1939-2006)
  • Steve McQueen (1930-1980)
  • Merlin Olsen (1940-2010)

How Waters Kraus Paul & Siegel can help victims of asbestos exposure

We understand that when you or a loved one is diagnosed with mesothelioma you face a future of uncertainty. You will no doubt have numerous questions about living with an asbestos-related cancer. Waters Kraus Paul & Siegel has been helping victims of asbestos exposure from almost 20 years. We put our extensive resources and seasoned lawyers to work for you, and provide aggressive legal representation throughout the entire course of litigation. To learn more about Waters Kraus Paul & Siegel, or to have one of our lawyers review your potential asbestos case, email us or call 800.226.9880.

What are my chances?

That’s the first question everyone asks. The truth is it’s impossible to know. But we can tell you this. Waters Kraus Paul & Siegel has what it takes to fight against big corporate interests and win. That’s why we’ve taken more mesothelioma trials to verdict than any other firm. And that’s why we’ve recovered more than $1.3 billion for clients like you. Do you think you have a case? Contact us now to speak with an attorney.

Call 800.226.9880