Helen Siff, who spent five decades bringing supporting characters to life on television shows including “Modern Family” and “Will & Grace,” died Thursday in Los Angeles. She was 88.
The actress died from complications of a “long, painful illness,” her family told the Hollywood Reporter.
Siff’s career spanned dozens of television series and films, with memorable appearances as a nurse on “Modern Family” and as Josie on “Will & Grace,” Parade noted. Her film work included parts in “The Karate Kid,” “You Don’t Mess With The Zohan,” and “Hail, Caesar!”
The actress also appeared in television comedies throughout the ’80s, ’90s, and ’00s, including “Doogie Howser, M.D.,” “Married… With Children,” “Sister, Sister,” “Scrubs,” and “My Name Is Earl.”
Her family said Siff approached every role with care and commitment.
“Those who worked with Helen knew her not just as a talented performer, but as someone who brought professionalism, dedication, and genuine kindness to every set,” the family said in a statement. “She understood that every role, no matter how large or small, was an opportunity to contribute something meaningful to the story being told.”
Her daughter, Victoria Siff, posted a tribute on Instagram after her mother’s death.
“I’m heartbroken to share that my mother (my mommy) Helen Siff has passed away,” Victoria Siff wrote. “My dynamic, charismatic, one-of-a-kind mom was a stage, television, and film actress. She loved her craft deeply, but her greatest role was being a mother and grandmother … You’ve taken your final bow, mommy … I will love you forever.”
Siff is survived by her son, Matt; daughters Susie, Karen, Vicki, and Jenny; and seven grandchildren. Her husband, Marshall, and son, Bruce, preceded her in death.
