Trending Now: Tragic Hollywood legend died penniless in hospice after losing home – Fans React

Kevin DiCicco, who co-created the beloved Air Bud Disney franchise, died aged 63 in hospice after battling COPD. His death came 16 months after he became homeless following bankruptcy

Kevin DiCicco, co-creator of the hit 90s Disney family film franchise Air Bud, passed away at 63 in hospice care on Saturday, March 21, following complications from advanced chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. His brother Mark shared the news with TMZ.

His passing occurred 16 months after the Hollywood figure publicly disclosed he had become homeless and was facing serious health challenges.

In November 2024, it emerged he was living without a home after going bankrupt. Friends launched a GoFundMe campaign with a goal of raising $250k to secure assisted living accommodation for him as he battled chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), which he linked to cannabis use.

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At that time, he explained he was approaching the maximum 90-day limit allowed at a San Diego shelter and felt “terrified” about facing homelessness, made worse by his deteriorating health.

Despite playing a key role in launching the profitable Air Bud franchise and personally owning and training Buddy, the golden retriever star of the 1997 Disney film, he maintained he “never received much monetary compensation” from the entertainment corporation.

Kevin had discovered the athletic golden retriever roaming as a stray near his Yosemite cabin in 1989 and adopted the dog, eventually turning him into a household name. The duo initially gained recognition through America’s Funniest Home Videos before transitioning to Hollywood success. Buddy received a nomination for Favorite Animal at the 1998 Kids’ Choice Awards, but tragically passed away from synovial cell sarcoma the next year at just nine years old.

Nevertheless, the franchise carried on through 2012, with Kevin accumulating 11 credits for his creative work. The original Air Bud movie premiered in theaters in August 1997, grossing $23,144,499, according to Box Office Mojo, reports the Express.

Social media was flooded with tributes following the announcement of his passing. “Bro Air Bud was a HUGE inspiration for my love of sports as a kid… I thought about Air Bud all the time during my football career. Kevin DiCicco can’t get enough flowers. RIP, good sir,” one supporter posted on Facebook.

Another commented, “That’s really sad that nobody in Hollywood reached out to help him. He is a fellow actor after all.” A third person wrote: “That’s so sad RIP thank you Kevin for making our childhood great with you’re touching heartfelt Air Bud film.”

A fourth expressed: “Loved Air Bud as a kid. I was 10 years old and also played basketball. Great film. Rest in peace.” A fifth remarked: “This should never happen, idc if you’re famous or not. He deserved better. May he RIP.”

Meanwhile, a sixth declared: “RIP Loved Air Bud.. I hate that anybody has to struggle like this. It’s sad & not right.”