Alfie Wise, best known for playing the tow-truck driver “Batman” in The Cannonball Run and for being a longtime costar of Burt Reynolds, has d**d at age 82.
He passed away from natural causes on July 22 at the Thomas H. Corey VA Medical Center in Palm Beach, Florida, according to The Hollywood Reporter. Wise retired from acting in 2000 and became a real estate agent.
Alfie Wise was an American actor best known for his roles in comedy films and for being a frequent collaborator with Burt Reynolds. He was born on November 17, 1941, and over the years became a familiar face in movies and television, especially during the 1970s and 1980s.
Though small in stature, Wise had a big presence on screen. He often played quirky, funny, and memorable supporting characters. One of his most well-known roles was as “Batman,” the tow-truck driver in The Cannonball Run, a hit 1981 comedy that starred his close friend Burt Reynolds. Wise’s performance brought humor and charm to the film, helping make it a fan favorite.
Wise appeared in many other popular films alongside Reynolds, including Hooper, The Best Little Whorehouse in Texas, Stroker Ace, and Smokey and the Bandit II. His talent for comedy and his unique look made him stand out, even in smaller roles. Audiences appreciated his timing and ability to steal scenes with just a few lines.
In addition to film, Wise made several television appearances, including guest spots on shows like The Jeffersons and Alice. While he was never a leading man, his supporting roles made a lasting impression.
After a long career in Hollywood, Alfie Wise retired from acting in 2000. He stepped away from the spotlight and lived a quieter life in Florida. Wise began a new chapter as a real estate agent in Palm Beach, Florida. Despite no longer being in the public eye, he remained a beloved figure for fans of classic comedies and Burt Reynolds movies.