‘The Karate kid’ legend Helen Siff breathes her last at 88

The Karate kid actress Helen Siff has died at the age of 88, marking the end of a career that spanned more than five decades.

According to The Hollywood Reporter, Siff’s family confirmed that she passed away on December 18 in Los Angeles due to complications following surgery for a “long painful illness.”

“Those who worked with Helen knew her not just as a talented performer, but as someone who brought professionalism, dedication and genuine kindness to every set, she understood that every role, no matter how large or small, was an opportunity to contribute something meaningful to the story being told,” the Hail, Caeser! star’s family said.

Siff’s family also noted, “She had the rare gift of making even the smallest part memorable.”

The actress began her acting career in 1981 and quickly became a familiar face on television, appearing in popular series such as Simon & Simon, Cagney & Lacey, and Silver Spoons.

Moreover, her work continued steadily into the early 2000s, with guest roles on shows including Will & Grace, Scrubs and My Name Is Earl.

In addition to her television work, Siff also appeared in several films. Her notable roles included a cashier in John G. Avildsen’s The Karate Kid and Mrs. Skitzer in You Don’t Mess With the Zohan, according to TV Insider.