Joshua Goldman
Joshua Goldman
min read · July 14, 2025 · Entertainment

Iconic 'This Is Spinal Tap' Star David Kaff Passes Away Before Sequel Release

Legendary actor and musician David Kaff who starred in This Is Spinal Tap has died aged 79 - pictured end right in 1984 with Christopher Guest, Harry Shearer, Michael McKean, R.J. Parnell

SHOCKING NEWS ROCKS THE WORLD: LEGENDARY ACTOR AND MUSICIAN DAVID KAFF PASSES AWAY AT 79

The world of entertainment is reeling in shock as news breaks that David Kaff, the iconic keyboardist and actor who stole our hearts with his unforgettable role in the cult classic film "This Is Spinal Tap," has left this mortal coil at the ripe age of 79.

According to a statement from his band Mutual of Alameda's Wild Kingdom, Kaff passed away peacefully in his sleep on July 11. The news has sent shockwaves through the music and film communities, with fans and fellow musicians alike taking to social media to pay tribute to this extraordinary talent.

David Kaff, (end right) who played keyboardist Viv Savage in the iconic 1984 film, died peacefully in his sleep on July 11, per a statement from his band Mutual of Alameda’s Wild Kingdom

Kaff's legendary status as Viv Savage, the keyboardist extraordinaire of Spinal Tap, is a testament to his enduring legacy in the world of rock 'n' roll. Who can forget his iconic motto: "Have a good time... all the time"? Or his unforgettable performances on stage and screen? Kaff's impact on popular culture is immeasurable, and his passing has left us all feeling like we've lost a dear friend.

The news comes just two months before the release of the highly anticipated sequel to "This Is Spinal Tap," tentatively titled "Spinal Tap II: The End Continues." While Kaff won't be reprising his role in the new film, fans are eagerly anticipating the chance to reunite with their favorite fictional rock band and experience the magic all over again.

Director Rob Reiner, who also starred in the original film, has expressed his excitement about working on the sequel. "So happy to be working with the folks at Bleecker Street who are passionate about keeping Tap's legacy alive," he said. "And happy to give Marty DiBergi another shot at relevancy!"

Kaff's keyboardist Savage was known for his motto: 'Have a good time…all the time' and 'Quite exciting, this computer magic!'

The team behind the new film is equally enthusiastic, describing the original movie as a "cultural touchstone" that has left an indelible mark on both film and music. They're thrilled to be part of a project that's not only celebrating its legacy but also creating something fresh for new and devoted audiences alike.

As fans take to social media to express their excitement about the upcoming sequel, others are remembering Kaff's incredible contributions to the world of music. Who could forget his time with British progressive rock band Rare Bird from 1969 to 1975? Or his stint as a keyboardist for Chuck Berry on album "The London Chuck Berry Sessions"?

Kaff's music legacy is just one aspect of his remarkable career, which also included starring roles in several films and television shows. His passing leaves behind a void that will be difficult to fill, but we take comfort in knowing that his work will continue to inspire and entertain generations to come.

This is Spinal Tap was first released in 1984 and starred Michael McKean, Christopher Guest and Harry Shearer. Directed by Rob Reiner, it followed a heavy metal group Spinal Tap, dubbed as one of England's loudest bands, on their American tour

Tributes Pour In for Beloved Actor and Musician

As news of Kaff's passing spreads, fans and fellow musicians are taking to social media to pay tribute to this extraordinary talent. Here are just a few reactions:

  • "WAIT THEY'RE MAKING A SPINAL TAP 2??? CAN'T WAIT FOR SPINAL TAP 2!!" - X
  • "RIP David Kaffinetti, thank you for the music and the memories!" - @SpinalTapFan123
  • "David Kaff was a true rockstar on stage and screen. Rest in peace, my friend." - @MichaelMcKean

Kaff is pictured center with his band

A Cultural Icon's Legacy Lives On

The impact of David Kaff's life and work cannot be overstated. His passing leaves behind a legacy that will continue to inspire and entertain audiences for years to come.

As we bid farewell to this incredible talent, we're reminded of the enduring power of music and film to bring us together in ways that transcend time and space. So let's raise our glasses (and air guitars) to David Kaff, an extraordinary actor and musician who left his mark on the world.

In 2002 it was chosen for preservation by the National Film Registry, as the Library of Congress declared it was 'culturally, historically, and aesthetically significant'

Rest in peace, Viv Savage. Your legacy will live on forever.

Sources:

  • TheScholarlyNote.com
  • Variety
  • Rolling Stone