We’re sad to report that recent Phish legend and longtime character actor Abe Vigoda passed away today, January 26th, at the age of 94. While Vigoda may be best remembered for his role as Sal Tessio in The Godfather films, fans of the jam band Phish will of course remember his pivotal role in the group’s Halloween 2013 concert at Atlantic City, NJ.

Breaking from their musical costume tradition, Phish opted to debut an album’s worth of new material during the second set on Halloween night. Tentatively-titled Wingsuit (and later renamed Fuego), easily one of the favorites from the set was the funky jam tune, “Wombat.” Not only did “Wombat” get people grooving, but a slew of dancers escorted the real Abe Vigoda on stage during the song. The dancers had broken out into a choreographed number during the song, though it can be assumed that the 92-year-old Vigoda was slyly swapped out after the dance routine ended.

The tie-in between Vigoda and “Wombat” comes lyrically, as the song’s refrain says, “It’s kinda like the music from the Fish TV show, you know, with Abe Vigoda.” Vigoda played Detective Sgt. Phil Fish on the series Barney Miller, and reprised the role for the spin-off Fish. Naturally, the band Phish must have been aware of the show Fish during the writing process.

Meanwhile, “The Abe Vigoda Dancers” have become something of a legend in Phish folklore, as well as the short movie that premiered during the set break. In it, Vigoda and the Phish crew spoof The Godfather, with Mike Gordon playing the role of “Don Gordleone.” You can watch that short below:

“Don Gordleone”

RIP Abe Vigoda. You will be missed, and we’re sending our love and light to the Vigoda family. Revisit Vigoda’s famed Phish appearance below:

“Wombat” – 10/31/13

And here’s the “Fish TV” theme song, for comparison:

 

[Via Daily News]