Hollywood has lost one of its most familiar yet underrated faces. Waymond Lee, the beloved character actor best remembered as “Old Way Way” on Workaholics, has died at the age of 72. His family confirmed the news, revealing that complications from ALS (Lou Gehrig’s disease) led to his passing on December 18.
Lee’s death marks the end of a career that spanned nearly two decades and left an indelible mark across television and film. Known for his tireless work ethic and humble personality, Lee was described by his family as “a soft-hearted, sentimental person” who never once complained about long hours or demanding shoots.
From Craigslist Ad to Cult Comedy Fame
Few Hollywood stories are as delightfully unorthodox as Lee’s. His journey to stardom began in 2007 when he responded to a Craigslist ad posted by the creators of Workaholics. What started as a quirky supporting role blossomed into a fan-favorite character, with Lee appearing across seven seasons of the hit Comedy Central sitcom.
“I wish we had more,” Lee reflected earlier this year about his time on the show. His oddball charm as “Old Way Way” fit seamlessly into the outrageous world of Workaholics, earning him cult status among fans.
A Scene-Stealer Across TV’s Biggest Shows
But Lee’s career was far bigger than a single role. Over the years, he amassed more than 100 acting credits, making him one of those instantly recognizable faces viewers spotted in everything from dramas to sitcoms. His résumé reads like a tour through modern television: Grey’s Anatomy, How I Met Your Mother, Shameless, Veep, It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia, Dexter, Castle, Bones, and Law & Order: LA, to name just a few.
Among his most notable guest spots was NCIS: Los Angeles, where he appeared during the show’s 14-year run. For fans of the CBS hit, Lee’s presence was another reminder of his versatility—seamlessly moving from broad comedy to crime drama with ease. His ability to bring depth and authenticity to even the briefest appearances made him a go-to actor for casting directors across Hollywood.
Film Roles: From Iron Man 2 to Everything Everywhere All at Once
Lee’s impact wasn’t limited to television. On the big screen, he worked alongside some of Hollywood’s biggest names in films such as Iron Man 2, Angels & Demons, Yes Man, and He’s Just Not That Into You. More recently, he appeared in the Oscar-winning phenomenon Everything Everywhere All at Once, proving that even late into his career, he was still finding fresh, ambitious projects.
A Life of Dedication and Heart
What truly set Lee apart wasn’t just his staggering body of work but the way he approached it. His family shared that he was happiest on set, often expressing gratitude simply to be working. “He loved acting so much,” they said, adding that his passion never wavered, even as his health declined.
After his ALS diagnosis earlier this month, Lee briefly returned home, cherishing time with his wife, Diane, before complications forced him back to the hospital. He passed peacefully with her at his side.
Farewell to a Familiar Face
Waymond Lee may not have been a household name, but his contributions to film and television are undeniable. From cult comedy (Workaholics) to blockbuster franchises (Iron Man 2), from prestige drama (NCIS: Los Angeles) to Oscar-winning cinema (Everything Everywhere All at Once), he left a versatile and wide-ranging legacy.
For the countless fans who spotted him on their screens and for the colleagues who remember his kindness, Lee will remain unforgettable—a reminder of the power of character actors who bring heart and authenticity to every role.
