Ben Stiller's actress-mom dies at 85

Meara, who with her husband Jerry Stiller formed a popular comedy duo in the 1960s, died Saturday, according to US media. The cause of death was not immediately known.

Film producer Michael Skolnik said on Twitter: "The great actress, Anne Meara (Ben Stiller's mom) who I had the pleasure of working with 20 yrs ago, has passed away." The redhead featured in everything from crime dramas to soap operas, but is best known for her comedic work.

She had recurring roles on "Archie Bunker's Place" –- a sequel to "All in the Family" -– and "The King of Queens."

She was nominated for a Golden Globe for her work on "Rhoda," and was a four-time Emmy nominee.

Meara and her husband were part of "The Compass Players" improv group that later became "Second City."

In reviewing Meara's performance in "The Daytrippers" two decades ago, renowned film critic Roger Ebert said: "she is, almost by definition, superb at her assignment here, which is to create an insufferable mother."

"The film's problem is that she does it so well," he added.

In 1984, Meara shared a Writers Guild Award with Lila Garrett for "The Other Woman," a romantic comedy television film.

Tributes poured in from fellow actors as news of her death filtered through.