Former NFL Star Alex Karras of ‘Webster’ and ‘Blazing Saddles’ Dead at 77

Alex Karras, Long time NFL player, star of the television series 'Webster' and Mongo in the Mel Brooks classic comedy 'Blazing Saddles' has died.

TMZ reports that Karras has passed away at the age of 77 from kidney failure. The former NFL star has struggled with several illnesses in recent years. TMZ confirmed the news with a member of Karras' family earlier today.

Karras played for the Detroit Lions NFL from 1958 to 1970.He made his acting debut on the 'Daniel Boone' television series as Williams. Karras went on to appear in other television shows, including from 'M*A*S*H*' and 'The Odd Couple. His best know role was Webster's father on the 80s television series 'Webster.'

Karras' movie career included roles in Mel Brooks' 'Blazing Saddles' and 'Porky's'.

I mentioned Karras' death to one of my younger co-workers & he responded "Who's Alex Karras?"  When he saw the photo contained herein, he said, "Oh, yeah! Webster."

I'll always remember him punching the horse in 'Blazing Saddles.' The next time you watch, notice the horse falls over in the wrong direction....