‘Home Alone’ actor found dead in California hotel

John Heard, known as Peter McAllister in the “Home Alone” movies and who appeared in a wide range of TV and film roles, has died at 71.

He was best known as the on-screen father who left his son to fend for himself just a few days before Christmas in the iconic childhood favorite “Home Alone.”

He was found dead in a Palo Alto, California, hotel where he was recovering after undergoing minor back surgery Wednesday, Heard’s manager told NBC News. The Santa Clara Medical Examiner’s office also confirmed his death and said the cause is pending further testing.

“Based on the investigation conducted thus far, there is no evidence of foul play,” the office said in a statement.

Born in Washington, D.C., Heard started out acting off-Broadway. His first major role came in the romantic comedy “Chilly Scenes of Winter” in 1979.