The director Danny Leiner, best known for his contributions to the buddy-stoner canon with Harold and Kumar Go To White Castle and Dude, Where’s My Car?, has died at the age of 57.
According to a friend, the director died of a long illness. In addition to his penchant for directing affable duos on the big screen, Leiner had a prolific television directing career over the past two decades, which included Arrested Development, the Office, Gilmore Girls, the Sopranos, and Freaks and Geeks.
“Danny was so sharp, so funny, and a great dinner companion,” John Cho wrote on Twitter. “To his friends and family, my deepest condolence.” Actor Kal Penn added, “Sending my love to his family and friends. He was such a funny, thoughtful, encouraging person.”
After graduating from SUNY Purchase, Leiner directed 1996 comedy Layin’ Low, starring Jeremy Piven and Edie Falco. His second feature film was Dude Where's My Car starring Ashton Kutcher and Seann William Scott.
