‘Home’ full of sorrow

Heard, played Culkin’s dad in ‘Alone,’ dies at 71

VETERAN ACTOR John Heard, who famously played the father in two “Home Alone” movies and earned an Emmy nomination as an amoral detective on “The Sopranos,” has died.

Heard, 71, was found Friday in a hotel room in Palo Alto, Calif., said the Santa Clara County Coroner’s Office. A maid reportedly found his body.

No cause of death was given, but TMZ.com reported Heard was staying in the hotel while recovering from recent back surgery.

There was no evidence of foul play, according to the coroner’s office.

“He was such a great guy,” said Marlon Wayans, who starred with Heard in the comedy “White Chicks.”

“Sad to see such a good spirit and actor taken,” he continued. “Thank you for all your contributions to our beloved industry.”

Actor Michael McKean of “Better Call Saul” and “This Is Spinal Tap” offered high praise: “RIP John Heard. Never Not Good.”

The perpetually busy Heard’s resume included appearances in “Big” with Tom Hanks, “The Pelican Brief” with Denzel Washington and Julia Roberts and “Gladiator” with Russell Crowe.

But he was best known as Peter McCallister, cinematic dad to Macaulay Culkin’s Kevin in two “Home Alone” movies.

Heard only sought the part so his 5-year-old son could play with his co-stars on the set — and the actor later distanced himself from the character.

His agent had to convince Heard to return for the sequel, “Home Alone 2: Lost in New York.”

“I didn’t want to be the ‘Home Alone’ dad for the rest of my life,” he said.

In addition to “The Sopranos,” where his corrupt cop committed suicide by leaping off a New Jersey bridge, Heard’s television roles included spots on “CSI: Crime Scene Investigation,” “Modern Family” and “Entourage.”

He recently insisted that one of his favorite acting gigs was the campy TV classic “Sharknado.”

“I knew it was going to be a cult classic,” he said. “It’s just ridiculous.”

The actor was currently working on a movie titled “Broome Street Boys,” the tale of two brothers — one a cop, the other a mobster.

The Washington, D.C., native was married three times, including a six-day union with actress Margot Kidder. He also had a son with actress Melissa Leo.

Heard is survived by his three children.

“A complex and brilliant man and a true artist,” said actor James Woods. “I will miss him dearly.”