A legendary actor and musician who starred in This Is Spinal Tap has died aged 79.

David Kaff, known for his role as keyboardist Viv Savage in the legendary 1984 movie, peacefully passed away in his sleep on July 11, according to a statement released by his band, Mutual of Alameda’s Wild Kingdom.

It read: ‘Our brother David Kaffinetti passed away peacefully in his sleep yesterday.

‘We are devastated by this event.

‘David always had a kind word and a quick wit that would slay you where you stand. Then he’d make you smile doing it!

‘RIP dear brother.’

Esteemed actor and musician David Kaff, renowned for his appearance in This Is Spinal Tap, has passed away at the age of 79. In the 1984 photo, he is pictured on the far right alongside Christopher Guest, Harry Shearer, Michael McKean, and R.J. Parnell.

David Kaff, seen here on the far right, portrayed keyboardist Viv Savage in the famous 1984 film. He passed away peacefully in his sleep on July 11, as announced by his band, Mutual of Alameda’s Wild Kingdom.

This is Spinal Tap was first released in 1984 and starred Michael McKean, Christopher Guest and Harry Shearer.

Directed by Rob Reiner, who also starred in the mockumentary comedy, it followed a heavy metal group Spinal Tap, dubbed as one of England’s loudest bands, on their American tour. 

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

Kaff’s death comes just two months before a sequel to his iconic film will be released – Kaff did not reprise his role in the new film.

Spinal Tap II: The End Continues will be released in September. It will follow Spinal Tap as they perform one last time after reuniting after 15 years.

Director Rob Reiner said: ‘So happy to be working with the folks at Bleecker Street who are passionate about keeping Tap’s legacy alive and happy to give Marty DiBergi another shot at relevancy.’

While Bleecker Street’s CEO Andrew Karpen and president Kent Sanderson said: ‘We feel privileged for the opportunity to work with Rob Reiner and the brilliant minds behind the original This Is Spinal Tap and to be part of a film that has resonated with so many.’

They described the first movie as a cultural touchstone’ and added: ‘This Is Spinal Tap isn’t just a movie – it’s a cultural touchstone that pioneered the mockumentary genre and left an indelible mark on both film and music.

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

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

Kaff is pictured center with his band

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’

‘Returning to this world through Spinal Tap II is an extraordinary chance to celebrate its legacy while creating something fresh for both new and devoted audiences.’

This Is Spinal Tap has a whopping 96% score on Rotten Tomatoes and has been praised by many.

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.’

Some fans have taken to social media to express their excitement of the new release, one posted on X: ‘WAIT THEY’RE MAKING A SPINAL TAP 2???’;

‘Can’t wait for Spinal Tap 2.’;

Kaff, born David Kaffinetti, was a founding member of British progressive rock band Rare Bird from 1969 to 1975. They were known for their 1969 track Sympathy which charted at number 27 and sold one million copies.

He also played keyboards for Chuck Berry on album The London Chuck Berry Sessions.

After shooting to fame in This Is Spinal Tap, the line-up toured and played Saturday Night Live in 1984. Kaff would later leave the group at the end of the year.