Peter Fonda, Star Of Easy Rider, Dies Aged 79

His famous sister Jane Fonda has urged fans to "raise a glass to freedom" in the late Oscar nominee's honour.
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Easy Rider actor Peter Fonda has died at the age of 79.

His family said in a statement: “[Peter] passed away peacefully on Friday morning, August 16 at 11:05am at his home in Los Angeles surrounded by family.

“The official cause of death was respiratory failure due to lung cancer.”

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Peter at a Bafta event earlier this year
SIPA USA/PA Images

Peter was best known for his role in the aforementioned 1969 film, which he also co-wrote and produced.

He later went on to appear in films like Dirty Mary, Crazy Larry, Outlaw Blues and Ulee’s Gold, which earned him his second Oscar nomination.

The first was in the category of Best Original Screenplay for Easy Rider.

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Moviestore/Shutterstock

Peter was the son of the late Henry Fonda, and brother of Jane Fonda.

Like his famous sister, Peter was outspoken on political matters, producing a documentary in 2011 about the Deepwater Horizon oil spill, and those whose lives were changed by it.

He was also critical of US president Donald Trump’s policies regarding immigration.

Paying tribute to her brother, Jane said: “In one of the saddest moments of our lives, we are not able to find the appropriate words to express the pain in our hearts.

“While we mourn the loss of this sweet and gracious man, we also wish for all to celebrate his indomitable spirit and love of life.” 

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Peter and Jane Fonda
Araya Diaz via Getty Images

She continued: “In honour of Peter, please raise a glass to freedom.”

Peter’s final on-screen appearance will be in the upcoming war drama The Last Full Measure, in which Christopher Plummer, William Hurt, Ed Harris and Jeremy Irvine will co-star.

CORRECTION: This article initially stated Peter Fonda was 74 at the time of his death.