'Gilligan's Island' professor, actor Russell Johnson, dead at 89

CNN) -- Actor Russell Johnson, best known as "the professor" in the 1960s TV sitcom "Gilligan's Island," died Thursday, his agent said. Johnson was 89.

Johnson played the iconic role of Professor Roy Hinkley, whose scientific schemes to get the castaways rescued were always foiled by Gilligan's bumbling.

He died at his home in Washington, where he lived with his wife, Connie. She and their daughter, Kimberly, were at his side, said agent Mike Eisenstadt. Johnson is also survived by a stepson, Court, and a grandson, he said.

Johnson worked up until his death, signing autographs at public appearances over the holidays, said Eisenstadt. He called his death "unexpected."

He was "just a positive and nice guy," who always treated people with respect, his agent said.

Oh man, I use to love Gilligan's Island, I still watch it sometimes on TV Land or Nick At Night. Thats sad that he died, he was a good actor, but living to be 89 is a pretty full life, I just hope his passing was peaceful and painless.

RIP , but here is a scientist that could build all kinds of gadgets but couldn't build a boat to escape from the Island

[quote author=Kwami link=topic=86927.msg544530#msg544530 date=1389985459]
RIP , but here is a scientist that could build all kinds of gadgets but couldn't build a boat to escape from the Island
[/quote]

boat finally fixed...he sailing home!