Dean Jones has died aged 84.
The actor – who was best known for playing struggling race car driver Jim Douglas in the 1968 film ‘The Love Bug’ – has passed away in Los Angeles following complications related to Parkinson’s disease, his publicist Richard Hoffman has confirmed.
Although he began his career in TV and theatre, Jones went on to become a Hollywood star, appearing in 46 films, including 10 for Disney.
In addition to ‘The Love Bug’ – in which his character acquires a human-like Volkswagen named Herbie – he also appeared in ‘That Darn Cat!’, ‘Herbie Goes to Monte Carlo’ and ‘Beethoven’.
Speaking of his love of family-friendly entertainment in the past, he said: "I see something in them that is pure form. Just entertainment. No preaching.
"We’re always looking for social significance but maybe people just like to be entertained."
Jones – who also played a small role as a disk jockey in the 1957 Elvis Presley-starring ‘Jailhouse Rock’ – was honoured for his work with a spot in the Disney Legends Hall of Fame in 1995 and continued to work into his 70s, appearing on TV and in films.
The ‘Ensign O’Toole’ actor had daughters Carol and Deanna with his first wife Mae Entwisle – whom he divorced in 1970 – and son Michael with second wife Lory.
In addition to his wife of 42 years and his three children, Jones is also survived by eight grandchildren and three great-grandchildren.
Dean Jones has died aged 84
