Russell Johnson, Beloved Gilligan's Island Star, Dies at 89

Russell Johnson, a veteran actor forever beloved for his three-year stint on Gilligan's Island, died today at his home in Washington.

He was 89 years old and surrounded by his wife and daughter at the time.

Despite his age, Johnson's passing was unexpected, according to agent Michael Eisentstadt. He said the star was in good health.

"I spoke to him right before the holidays and he did an autograph job," says Eisentstadt." He had just done that and he was fine."

Johnson appeared on the iconic series from 1964-1967 and also guest stars on shows such as Dynasty, The Jeffersons and Roseanne

With Johnson's death, the only surviving regular cast members are Tina Louise (Ginger) and Dawn Wells (Mary Ann), the latter of whom wrote a tribute to Johnson today on Facebook:

"My 2 favorite people are now gone.  The professor past (sic) away this morning.  My heart is broken. Russell was a true gentleman, a good father, a great friend, and 'the rest.'"

Matt Richenthal is the Editor in Chief of TV Fanatic. Follow him on Twitter and on Google+.