Floyd Levine, a veteran character actor known for his extensive work in television and film spanning more than five decades, died Sunday, August 24, at age 93. The actor, who appeared in more than 100 productions including “Baywatch,” “The Hangover,” and “Melrose Place,” passed away peacefully surrounded by his family.
His daughter-in-law, Tracy Robbins, announced the news on Instagram on Monday, August 25, describing him as “the best father-in-law, grandpa, and all around jokester.” She indicated that Levine loved Frank Sinatra, classic films, and making everyone laugh.
Born on February 23, 1932, in New York City, Levine began his career as a taxi driver in Brooklyn while raising three children with his wife, Rochelle. He started acting in the early 1970s, securing one of his first credited roles in the 1972 crime drama “Super Fly.” The family moved to Los Angeles in 1979 as his acting career gained momentum.
Throughout the 1970s and 1980s, Levine frequently portrayed law enforcement officers and other supporting characters in notable films including “Death Wish,” “Dog Day Afternoon,” and “Bloodbrothers.” His television credits included appearances on classic series such as “Starsky & Hutch,” “Wonder Woman,” “The A-Team,” and “Quincy M.E.”
Levine made memorable appearances on several popular television shows during the 1980s and 1990s. He played Carmine on “The A-Team” and appeared as Mr. Baldwin on “The Dukes of Hazzard” in 1984. He also made two separate appearances on “Murder, She Wrote,” first as Archie Miles in 1985 and later as Harry Krumholtz in 1989.
One of his most recognized television roles came in 1998 when he appeared on “Baywatch” as a crime gang boss. He also had a recurring role on “Melrose Place,” appearing as Dr. Howard Stein in six episodes of the popular drama series. Additionally, he played Desk Sergeant Lubin in three episodes of “Cagney & Lacey” and Lou Stanley in two episodes of “Days of Our Lives.”
Levine frequently collaborated with his son, Brian Robbins, who became a successful filmmaker and media executive. Brian, who adopted his mother’s maiden name at Levine’s suggestion, later became chairman and CEO of Paramount Pictures before departing earlier this month following the company’s merger with Skydance. The father-and-son duo appeared together in shows including “Head of the Class” and “Archie Bunker’s Place.”
In later years, Levine appeared in several projects directed or produced by his son, including “Coach Carter,” “Norbit,” and “Meet Dave.” He also had roles in Nickelodeon productions such as “Cousin Skeeter,” “Kenan & Kel,” and “Good Burger,” where he played an ice cream man.
Among his final film appearances was an uncredited role as a tailor in the 2009 comedy “The Hangover,” sharing scenes with Bradley Cooper, Zach Galifianakis, Ed Helms, and Justin Bartha. He also played Abe the Tailor in the Eddie Murphy film “Norbit.” His final credited role came in the 2012 fantasy-comedy “A Thousand Words” alongside Murphy.
Tracy Robbins described her father-in-law as someone who maintained his sense of humor throughout his life, noting his fondness for telling stories and his occasional use of colorful language. She remembered him as her “forever Brooklyn boy” and expressed confidence that he was already making the angels laugh.
Levine is survived by his children Sheryl, Marc, and Brian, as well as several grandchildren. His wife Rochelle died in May 2022 at age 85. The family received condolences from various celebrities, including Kris Jenner, who commented on the announcement expressing prayers and love for the family.
Tracy Robbins concluded her tribute by noting that Brian was essentially his father’s twin, and that the family would see Floyd’s grin every time they looked at him. She wrote, “You always did it your way to the very end.”