Biography
George Gaynes (1917–2016) was a Finnish-born Dutch-American actor and singer. He began his career in opera and on Broadway in the 1950s, appearing in productions including The Consul, Out of This World and Wonderful Town, before moving into television and film in the 1960s.
He is best known for his film role as John Van Horn in Tootsie (1982) and as Commandant Eric Lassard in the Police Academy series (1984–1994). On television he played Henry Warnimont in Punky Brewster (1984–1988) and appeared in series including The Days and Nights of Molly Dodd and Hearts Afire.
Gaynes was married to actress Allyn Ann McLerie from 1953 until his death.
