Carol Ann Susi, the heard-but-never-seen actress who played Mrs. Wolowitz on CBS' The Big Bang Theory, has died. She was 62.
Susi was battling an aggressive form of cancer at the time of her death, according to Warner Bros. TV.
So grateful to have known Carol Ann Susi who brought laughter & light with her always. She'll forever be in my heart. http://t.co/ecSsW7buPQ— Melissa Rauch (@MelissaRauch) November 12, 2014
"The Big Bang Theory family has lost a beloved member today with the passing of Carol Ann Susi, who hilariously and memorably voiced the role of Mrs. Wolowitz," the studio, CBS and Big Bang Theory producers said in a joint statement. "Unseen by viewers, the Mrs. Wolowitz character became a bit of a mystery throughout the show’s eight seasons. What was not a mystery, however, was Carol Ann’s immense talent and comedic timing, which were on display during each unforgettable appearance. In addition to her talent, Carol Ann was a constant source of joy and kindness to all. Our thoughts and deepest condolences are with her family during this time, and we will miss her greatly."
Susi joined the cast of The Big Bang Theory in Season 1 in an episode that introduced Debbie Wolowitz, the overbearing and brash mother of engineer Howard (Simon Helberg). The character would return for more than 35 episodes over the subsequent seasons, but was only shown in short glimpses as a running gag (her face was never revealed).
It is currently unclear how the show will deal with Susi's passing.
In addition to The Big Bang Theory, Susi appeared in dozens of TV shows, including Cheers, Doogie Howser, M.D. and Seinfeld.