Neil Simon Dies At Age 91 Of Failing Kidney And Alzheimer's

Acclaimed playwright Neil Simon has died at age 91.

The man who wrote the beloved "The Odd Couple" play which was then turned into a movie and then a hit TV series starring Jack Klugman and Tony Randall suffered from a failing kidney, Alzheimer's disease, and dementia, according to a website.

In 2004, Simon had a kidney transplant. The donor was his longtime friend and publicist Bill Evans.

Simon also wrote the successful plays "Come Blow Your Horn," "Barefoot in the Park," "Promises, Promises," "Biloxi Blues," and "The Sunshine Boys."

His plays were so popular that they were often adapted for the big screen.

However, "The Odd Couple" was perhaps Simon's best known work—and his own personal life was apparently difficult as well.

Simon was married to dancer Joan Baim, who died 20 years into their marriage from cancer.

He also was wed to "The Goodbye Girl" star, actress Marsha Mason, now 76, from 1973 to 1983. Simon had written the 1977 movie's screenplay.

The playwright was then married to Diane Lander -- not once but twice! Their unions were from 1987 to 1988 and then 1990-1998.

At the time of his death, Simon's wife was actress Elaine Joyce, whom he married in 1999.

There reportedly will a memorial service for Simon this Thursday in New York City.

Stars are expected to attend to honor the Broadway icon.

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