Legendary Hollywood Director Mike Nichols, Husband of Diane Sawyer, Dies at 83

Story by the Associated Press; curated by Oliver Darcy.

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NEW YORK (AP) — Mike Nichols, the director of matchless versatility who brought fierce wit, caustic social commentary and wicked absurdity to such film, TV and stage hits as "The Graduate," ''Angels in America" and "Monty Python's Spamalot," has died. He was 83.

Mike Nichols and wife Diane Sawyer pose at The Opening Night of 'The Real Thing' on Broadway at American Airlines Theatre on October 30, 2014 in New York City. (Bruce Glikas/FilmMagic)

The death was confirmed by ABC News President James Goldston on Thursday. Nichols died Wednesday evening. Goldston said the family was holding a small private service this week.

We are deeply saddened to hear of the sudden death of EGOT winner and icon Mike Nichols at age 83. Our hearts go out to his loved ones

— Yahoo Movies (@YahooMovies) November 20, 2014

Nichols, who was married to TV journalist Diane Sawyer, also was a groundbreaking comedy performer who teamed with Elaine May as a popular act onstage and television.

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