Robin Leach, 'Lifestyles Of The Rich And Famous' Host, Dead At 76

Robin Leach, the host of the hit '80s show, Lifestyles of the Rich and Famous, died early Friday morning (August 24). He was 76.

According to the Las Vegas Review-Journal, where Leach worked as a celebrity columnist, the former TV host passed away less than a week before his 77th birthday next Wednesday. He had been hospitalized since November 21 after suffering a stroke in Cabo San Lucas, Mexico. Columnist John Katsilometes echoed the sad news in a message on Twitter, writing, "Sad to report the death of famed celeb reporter, friend and colleague #RobinLeach @ 1:50 a.m. in #LasVegas. He would have been 77 Wednesday. He suffered a second stroke Monday. He in hospice care. He'd been hospitalized since Nov. 21, after suffering a stroke in Cabo San Lucas."

In a statement released via Katsilometes, the Leach family shared their gratitude for those who supported him throughout his health struggles. "Despite the past 10 months, what a beautiful life he had. Our Dad, Grandpa, Brother, Uncle and friend Robin Leach passed away peacefully last night at 1:50 a.m.," the family said in a statement. "Everyone's support and love over the past, almost one year, has been incredible and we are so grateful. Memorial arrangements to follow. With love, Steven, Gregg and Rick Leach."

Celine Dion also paid tribute to the late host on Twitter, writing, "Saddened to hear the news that Robin Leach has passed away. He was a thoughtful and considerate man, and a great supporter of the entertainment scene in Las Vegas."

Leach's Lifestyles of the Rich and Famous premiered in 1984 and ran until 1995, offering viewers an inside look at celebrity homes. Leach also went on to host Lifestyles spinoff Fame, Fortune and Romance and The Surreal Life: Fame Games on VH1.

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