Air Bud Creator Kevin DiCicco Passes Away at 63 Following Health Battle
Kevin DiCicco, the Hollywood figure who co-created the hit 1990s Disney family film franchise Air Bud, has died at the age of 63. He passed away in hospice care on Saturday, March 21, after suffering complications from advanced chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). The news was confirmed by his brother Mark to entertainment outlet TMZ.
Struggles with Homelessness and Health Issues
His death came 16 months after DiCicco revealed he had lost his home and was grappling with severe health problems. In November 2024, it was disclosed that he had been left homeless following bankruptcy. Supporters set up a GoFundMe appeal hoping to raise $250,000 to help secure assisted living facilities for him while he fought COPD, which he attributed to cannabis consumption.
During that period, he revealed he was nearing the 90-day maximum stay permitted at a San Diego refuge and felt "terrified" about the prospect of homelessness, compounded by his declining health. Despite being instrumental in establishing the successful Air Bud franchise, he insisted he "never received much monetary compensation" from the media giant Disney.
The Rise of Air Bud and Buddy the Golden Retriever
Kevin DiCicco personally owned and trained Buddy, the golden retriever who starred in the 1997 Disney production. He discovered the athletic golden retriever wandering as a stray close to his Yosemite cabin back in 1989 and took him in, ultimately transforming him into a beloved icon. The pair first rose to prominence via America's Funniest Home Videos before making their mark in Hollywood.
Buddy earned a nomination for Favourite Animal at the 1998 Kids' Choice Awards, though he heartbreakingly died from synovial cell sarcoma the following year aged just nine. Despite this, the franchise continued until 2012, with Kevin amassing 11 credits for his creative contributions. The original Air Bud film hit cinemas in August 1997, raking in $23,144,499 at the box office.
Tributes Pour In Across Social Media
Following news of his death, tributes poured in across social media platforms. One fan shared on Facebook: "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."
Another remarked: "That's really sad that nobody in Hollywood reached out to help him. He is a fellow actor after all." A third person added: "That's so sad RIP thank you Kevin for making our childhood great with you're touching heartfelt Air Bud film." Further comments highlighted the enduring impact of his work, with one noting: "Loved Air Bud as a kid. I was 10 years old and also played basketball. Great film. Rest in peace."
A fifth commentator expressed: "This should never happen, idc if you're famous or not. He deserved better. May he RIP." Meanwhile, a sixth stated: "RIP Loved Air Bud.. I hate that anybody has to struggle like this. It's sad and not right."
