MacLeod's nephew, Mark See, told Variety that the actor died early on Saturday. The Hollywood Reporter said that the death was confirmed by Ron Celona, artistic director of the Coachella Valley Repertory.
According to US media reports, MacLeod died in his Palm Desert home. He had been suffering from poor health, but no exact cause of death was given.
Friends, colleagues and fans took to social media to pay tributes.
My heart is broken. Gavin was my brother, my partner in crime (and food) and my comic conspirator. I will see you in a bit Gavin. Tell the gang I will see them in a bit. Betty! It’s just you and me now. pic.twitter.com/se4fwh7G1G
— Ed Asner (@TheOnlyEdAsner) May 29, 2021
Gavin MacLeod will always be a member of our family and the best neighbor anyone could ever have. Our hearts are aching, we will miss him terribly and love him forever. Godspeed, dear friend.💔💙 pic.twitter.com/jN7wE4M7Be
— Nancy Sinatra (@NancySinatra) May 29, 2021
Rest In Peace my dear friend Gavin Macleod❤️ Thank you for all the special and beautiful heart filled conversations about life. I will always treasure the time I was lucky enough to spend with you. Love you #GavinMacleod 💓 pic.twitter.com/4r3AbpCaSX
— Maureen McCormick (@MoMcCormick7) May 29, 2021
So sad to hear Gavin MacLeod has died. He was 90. Adore him as Captain Stubing in The Love Boat. R.I.P, Gavin. All sympathies to his family and friends. #GavinMacLeod pic.twitter.com/tiUwLomRYN
— Time For A Film 🎥💙🌻 (@TimeForAFilm) May 29, 2021
MacLeod was well-known in the 1970s and 80s thanks to his roles in dozens of TV shows, including "Mary Tyler Moore" and "The Love Boat," as well as several movies.