The American actor and musician best known for his portrayal of keyboardist Viv Savage in the cult classic mockumentary This Is Spinal Tap, David Kaff, has died at the age of 79.
His death occurred on Monday, drawing tributes from fans and fellow musicians alike.
Kaff’s passing was confirmed by members of the band ‘Mutual of Alameda’s Wild Kingdom’, who shared the news in a Facebook post.
The statement revealed that Kaff died peacefully in his sleep.
“Our brother David Kaffinetti peacefully passed away in his sleep yesterday. We are devastated by this event. RIP dear brother,” the post read.
The late performer gained international recognition in 1984 when he starred in This Is Spinal Tap, a film that parodied the world of rock music and became a cultural phenomenon.
His character, Viv Savage, was a fan favorite, contributing to the film’s enduring legacy.
Following the film’s success, Kaff continued to appear with the fictional band Spinal Tap at public events.
One of his most notable appearances was on Saturday Night Live, where the band performed live and reconnected with their audience.
Over time, Kaff moved on from Spinal Tap and joined other musical groups, continuing his passion for music.
His contributions extended beyond acting, as he remained active in the music scene for years after the film’s release.
Kaff’s death marks the loss of a unique talent who blended music and comedy in a way that resonated with fans across generations.
His legacy lives on through the enduring popularity of This Is Spinal Tap and his work in the music world.
