Martin Mull, the star of popular TV shows such as “Sabrina the Teenage Witch” and “Arrested Development,” has passed away at the age of 80. Mull’s daughter, TV writer and comic artist Maggie Mull, confirmed his death, stating he died at home on Thursday after a long battle with illness. Maggie shared her grief on Instagram, highlighting her father’s multifaceted talents and his ability to bring humor into any situation.
Mull first gained prominence in the 1970s with his role in the satirical soap opera “Mary Hartman, Mary Hartman” and its spinoff “Fernwood Tonight.” Born in Chicago and raised in Ohio and Connecticut, Mull studied art in Rhode Island and Rome before becoming a familiar face on television in the 1990s. He played Leon Carp, Roseanne’s boss on “Roseanne,” and for a younger audience, he was best known as Principal Kraft, the overbearing headteacher in “Sabrina the Teenage Witch.”
In addition to these roles, Mull had a memorable appearance in “Arrested Development” as private investigator Gene Parmesan and earned his first Emmy nomination in 2016 for a guest appearance on “Veep.” Melissa Joan Hart, Mull’s co-star on “Sabrina the Teenage Witch,” honored her late friend by posting a nostalgic photo and sharing fond memories of working with him. She praised his extensive career and his approach to taking every job offered, fearing the industry’s uncertainties.
On the big screen, Mull appeared in beloved movies such as “Jingle All The Way,” “Richie Rich’s Christmas Wish,” and “A Boyfriend for Christmas.” His diverse talents extended beyond acting; he was an artist who loved to paint and build things with his hands, and he was also a musician.
Martin Mull’s death is a significant loss to the entertainment industry. His ability to excel in various creative disciplines and his impact on colleagues, friends, and fans will be remembered. As Melissa Joan Hart aptly put it, the world has benefited from his presence, and he will be deeply missed by many.
