For generations of firefighters, EMTs and paramedics, Randy Mantooth was far more than the actor who portrayed firefighter-paramedic Johnny Gage on Emergency! He became one of the fire and EMS profession’s most recognizable advocates and a familiar presence at firehouses, conferences and emergency-services events across the country.

Mantooth died July 9, 2026, in Ventura, California, at the age of 80, surrounded by loved ones. His family said his health had declined following pneumonia after he had previously overcome throat and pancreatic cancer.

Among the departments remembering Mantooth was the Guilderland Fire Department in Guilderland, New York, whose members had a personal connection with the actor. Mantooth had previously attended the department’s annual installation dinner as a guest speaker, spending time with members and sharing remarks with those in attendance. The department recalled that his appreciation for firefighters and emergency responders made a lasting impression on its members.

Mantooth’s family said a private interment will take place in Santa Barbara, with a celebration of his life planned for a later date.