Charles Grodin, The Heartbreak Kid and Beethoven Star, Dead at 86 The actor was known for his deadpan humor and roles in popular films like The Heartbreak Kid and Midnight Run Charles Grodin, who starred in popular films like The Heartbreak Kid and Beethoven, is dead at the age of 86. The actor died on Tuesday at his home in Wilton, Connecticut, the New York Times reported. The cause of death was bone marrow cancer, his son Nicholas confirmed to the NYT. A familiar face onscreen and on the stage, Grodin was known for his versatility and comedic chops, and acted in supporting and lead roles in classic films like Catch-22, The Heartbreak Kid, Midnight Run, Beethoven and more.