Legendary comedian-actor Rudy Ray Moore, known for playing the starring role in the 1970s pimp movie "Dolemite," has died. According to reports, the actor passed Sunday evening (October 19) at a nursing home in Akron, Ohio from complications of diabetes.

Moore was 81 years old.

USA Today reports that services will be held in Akron and Spokane, Wash., where his mother and other family members live.

The comedian was hospitalized in Inglewood, California in 2006 for an undisclosed illness that his publicist said was "serious."

He recovered and was excited to get his comedy career back on track.

"Rudy is still funny, even at 80 in intensive care," his long time friend and manager Foster Corder said at the time. "All he can talk about is getting back on the road. We discussed a tribute that he wants all his rapper fans and other celebrity friends to take part in. In the meantime, however, let's pray for the king and his good health."

Moore's role in "Dolemite" was legendary within the black community. In later years, his fame resulted in collaborated with 2 Live Crew, Big Daddy Kane and Snoop Dogg.

In addition to "Dolemite," Moore's other acting credits during the Blaxploitation era of black action films included "The Human Tornado" in 1976 and "Disco Godfather" in 1979.