Vigoda died in his sleep at the home of his daughter Carol Vigoda Fuchs', in Woodland Park in New Jersey. The cause of death was reportedly old age. Fake reports of his death have reportedly been something of a running social media joke, starting with a false report three decades ago.

Born to Russian Jewish immigrants in New York City in 1921, Vigoda went to the Theater School of Dramatic Arts at Carnegie Hall. He started out acting in theaterplays. He did this for 30 years - with his roles include diverse characters from John of Gaunt in "Richard II" - to Abraham Lincoln in "Tough to Get Help," the comedy.

His recognition first came from 1972 film "The Godfather," in which he plays Sal Tessio, friend to Vito Corleone (Marlon Brando). In the films, he conspires to take over the family by murdering Michael Corleone (Al Pacino) after Michael's father's death. The role made him famous and was the launch for many ruffian roles

However, it is his role in the comedy "Barney Miller" (1975 - 1982) starring Hal Linden that has been said to be Vigoda's chief achievement. Quitting in 1977, he created his own spin-off series, "Fish," which featured the efforts of the detective and his wife taking in five street kids into their home. He also continued to act in films like "Cannonball Run II," ''Look Who's Talking," ''Joe Versus the Volcano" and "North."

He was paid fond tributes by friends and colleagues. He often appeared on TV show "Late Night With Conan O'Brien", coming on when O'Brien called him sometimes three hours in advance - and did "hilarious things," O'Brien said in the tribute to Vigoda on his show. Abe was "a lovely guy," he added, acknowledging that Vigoda had been a huge part of his New York show.

Robert Duvall, who played consigliere Tom Hagen in "The Godfather" also expressed how he had enjoyed working with Vigoda, and mentioned the memories they had together. Longtime friend Andy Richter also praised Abe Vigoda, calling him kind and professional.

Vigoda was married most recently to Beatrice Schy who died in 1992. His daughter from his first marriage with Sonja Gohlke is also no longer alive. Surviving family include his daughter, three grandchildren and a great-grandson.