Jackie Cooper, the American actor best known for playing 'Daily Planet' editor 'Perry White' in the 'Superman' movies, has passed away at the age of 88, reports Bbc News. Jackie Cooper died at his home in California from complications related to old age. The news comes after Superman actor Henry Cavill revealed that he is engaged to his show jumper girlfriend Ellen Whitaker.
In 1931, Cooper became the youngest actor to be nominated for the 'Best Actor' Oscar for his performance in 'Skippy'. Although he didn't win the honour, his uncle Norman Taurog walked away with the award for 'Best Director'. After serving in the U.S. Navy during World War II, Cooper returned to the screen, playing 'Perry White' in four of Christopher Reeve's 'Superman' movies. Cooper's character is yet to be cast in the forthcoming Zack Snyder 'Superman' film 'Man of Steel', which is scheduled to hit cinemas in 2012. British actor Henry Cavill has been announced as the superhero protagonist, with Diane Lane and Kevin Costner playing his mother and father. Cavill recently became engaged to his show-jumper girlfriend Ellen Whitaker after proposing to her in Los Angeles. Writing on her official website, 25-year-old Ellen said, "I couldn't believe it when he asked me. I thought we were there to celebrate his birthday. It was such a surprise and I am so happy".
Jackie Cooper, who went on to have a successful career as a television producer and director, is survived by his two sons.