Eric Lynch, diminutive, angry caller to Howard Stern radio show for more than a decade, dies

LOS ANGELES, Calif. – Eric “The Actor” Lynch, the diminutive member of Howard Stern’s “Wack Pack,” who for years launched into comical, frequently foul-mouthed rants during calls to Stern’s radio show, has died in California. He was 39.

Lynch’s longtime friend Johnny Fratto says he died Friday at a Sacramento hospital with family by his side.

Lynch, who was just 3 feet tall, suffered for years from numerous health problems related to his height.

He began calling Stern 12 years ago, initially to protest that the shock jock had ridiculed “American Idol” winner Kelly Clarkson as fat.

As the calls persisted, an unlikely friendship blossomed between the men.

Stern had Lynch on his show frequently, introduced him to celebrities and helped get him movie and TV parts.

Stern said Monday he “truly loved” Lynch.