Steve Franken Dead: Star Of 'The Many Loves Of Dobie Gillis' Dies At 80 (VIDEO)

Actor Steve Franken, famous for his role as the playboy dilettante Chatsworth Osborne Jr., on the hit 1960s sitcom "The Many Loves of Dobie Gillis," has died at the age of 80, reports say. According to the New York Times, Franken had been battling cancer.

Called a "character actor specializing in comedy," Franken's successful television and film career spanned more than 50 years.

Born in New York City, Franken starred in films like "The Party," opposite Peter Sellers, and was a frequent guest on popular TV shows such as "Bewitched" and "Love, American Style." More recently, he appeared on an episode of "Seinfeld."

Franken is survived by his wife and three daughters.

His wife, Jean, told the Associated Press that her husband never stopped working, and loved acting.

A public memorial for Franken is scheduled for Sept. 22 at Theatre West in Los Angeles, according to the Associated Press.