‘Leave it to Beaver’ Star Tony Dow Passes Away At 77

Update: TMZ has reported that Tony Dow is actually still alive despite the death post.

Original: Tony Lee Dow was an American film producer, director, sculptor, and television actor. Tony, who was born in Hollywood, California, achieved enormous success as Wally Cleaver on the 1957–1963 television series “Leave It To Beaver.” The producer, director, and actor best known for playing one of the show’s stars, has now passed away.

We previously reported that Dow was diagnosed with cancer in May 2022. Tony’s cause of death is yet unknown. Tony’s team recently revealed his death in a statement.

Tony was a beautiful soul – kind, compassionate, funny and humble. It was truly a joy to just be around him. His gentle voice and unpretentious manner was immediately comforting and you could not help but love him. The world has lost an amazing human being, but we are all richer for the memories that he has left us.

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From the warm reminiscences of Wally Cleaver to those of us fortunate enough to know him personally – thank you Tony. And thank you for the reflections of a simpler time, the laughter, the friendship and for the feeling that you were a big brother to us all. We will miss you.

Prior to taking a break to serve in the National Guard from 1965 to 1968, Dow continued his acting career on shows like “Never Too Late” and “My Three Sons.” Later, from 1983 through 1989, he returned to “The New Leave It To Beaver” to reprise his role as Wally.

In “Dickie Roberts: Former Child Star,” which was released in the 2000s, Tony continued to perform as an actor. Tony was 77 years old. We send our deepest condolences to his family and loved ones. RIP.