Heaven Couldn't Wait Any Longer, Actor Charles Grodin of Wilton Passes at 86

Charles Grodin, the star of many films including The Heartbreak Kid and Heaven Can Wait, died today at the age of 86. 

A resident of Wilton, Grodin appeared at The Ridgefield Playhouse several times, even on his 80th birthday when he took the packed audience on a comedic journey through his 50-year career in show business. 

Allison Stockel, the Executive Director of The Ridgefield Playhouse remarked, "Charles Grodin was a friend, a neighbor and a supporter of The Ridgefield Playhouse. He introduced me to my good buddy and employee Alex Fischetti - whom he mentored and was like a father to. He would sit in my office and tell stories and turned those stories into a one-man show which we presented at the Playhouse. I will miss him."

Behind his welcoming smile and gentle manner, was a passion for causes near and dear to his heart. Grodin was instrumental in overturning the Rockefeller Law, at one time considered one of the most severe drug-related laws in the country and was director of the “Lend A Hand Foundation,” a non-profit organization supporting freedom and recovery of falsely imprisoned, non-violent female inmates.

Grodin had a dear friend in Ridgefield resident Alex Fischetti (shown in these photos). 

Rest easy, Mr. Grodin.

*Images courtesy Alex Fischetti