The cast of ‘My Big Fat Greek Wedding’ reunited on Thursday to honour Michael Constantine.
Michael Constantine, who played the romantic comedy’s Kostas "Gus" Portokalos, the Windex bottle-toting Greek father of Toula Portokalos, died on August 31 at the age of 94.
Prior to his iconic role playing the patriarch in the 2002 movie ‘My Big Fat Greek Wedding’ Constantine won an Emmy in 1970 for his supporting role in the comedy series Room 222, for which he was also nominated for a Golden Globe.
Actress and co-writer of the franchise, Nia Vardalos, shared a photo of the cast at the reunion, seated at a restaurant table with their arms around each other, as part of a tribute to their late co-star.
"Friends in real life are why our films are so much fun to make. Cousin Nikki @gia. & brother Nick @louismandylorofficial & mom, @lainie_kazan gathered to honor the memory of Michael Constantine, may he rest in peace," Vardalos' post reads.
The writer went on to share some exciting news for fans of the film and its sequel.
"He had told me he wouldn’t be able to join us for the third film and his wish was that we go on. I wrote the screenplay to reflect Michael’s decision and will always treasure his last messages to me, hoping we were filming soon. The various variants have made indies difficult, but we are hopeful. Please do stop calling my mom to ask if you can be in it and please do not tell me your ideas, the script is finished," her post continues.
Vardalos added: "(And no Toula and Ian are not grandparents!) We miss you Michael, thank you for bringing my words to life with such passion and accuracy, you will always be with us."
In an announcement about his passing, the family disclosed that Constantine had died peacefully of natural causes surrounded by close family, including his sisters following his battle with an undisclosed illness for several years.
Michael Constantine, AKA ‘Gus’, the Father in ‘My Big Fat Greek Wedding,’ Dies at 94