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Art Metrano (1936–2021), actor known for “Police Academy” movies

by Linnea Crowther

Art Metrano was an actor and comedian best known for playing Ernie Mauser in the second and third “Police Academy” movies.

Acting career

Metrano had early roles in movies including “They Shoot Horses, Don’t They?” (1969) and “The Heartbreak Kid” (1972). Around that same time, he was frequently seen on TV, both in appearances on TV shows such as “Bonanza” and “Bewitched,” and as a guest on talk shows. His talk show schtick, often seen on “The Tonight Show,” was playing a magician who did goofy little tricks, like making his fingers appear to jump from one hand to another, while humming the song “Fine and Dandy.” Metrano was also a stand-up comic, appearing on TV and at comedy clubs. In 1985, he starred as tough police boss Mauser in “Police Academy 2: Their First Assignment,” returning in 1986 for “Police Academy 3: Back in Training.” Metrano’s later career included appearances in the movies “Toys” (1992) and “How Stella Got Her Groove Back” (1998).

Tributes to Art Metrano

Full obituary: CNN

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