Russell Johnson Dies; Gilligan's Island Professor Was 89 >>Hollywood

Russell Johnson, a veteran actor forever best known as playing The Professor on Gilligan's Island, died this morning at his hom in Washington.

He was 89 years old.

Johnson's agent, Michael Eisentstadt, confirmed the sad news and said his client passed away of natural causes while surrounded by his wife and daughter.

Despite the star's age, the death was unexpected.

"I spoke to him right before the holidays and he did an autograph job," says Eisentstadt." He had just done that and he was fine."

Dawn Wells, who portrayed Mary Ann on beloved series, posted a picture of herself, Johnson and Bob Denver (Gilligan) on Facebook in response to the news and wrote:

"My 2 favorite people are now gone. The Professor [passed] away this morning. My heart is broken."

Johnson