What happened to Leo on West Wing?

Trivia (7) John Spencer (Leo McGarry) died of a heart attack on December 16, 2005, about a year after his character experienced a nearly fatal heart attack on the show. Martin Sheen gave a brief memorial message before “The West Wing: Running Mates (2006)”, the first new episode that aired after Spencer’s death.

Why did they get rid of Leo on West Wing?

The show’s producers decided to let those episodes air in his memory. The character’s death was written in response to the death of the actor, and McGarry is discovered dead offscreen in his hotel room. According to executive producer Lawrence O’Donnell, the writers originally intended for Vinick to win the election.

When did Leo McGarry leave West Wing?

At the time, he had filmed two episodes of The West Wing that were in post-production — ”Running Mates,” in which Leo struggles through debate prep, and “The Cold.” For the episodes “Election Day Part I” and “Election Day Part II,” John’s death was written into the show, and Leo McGarry also passed away.

Did Leo from West Wing died in real life?

Death. Spencer died of a heart attack in a Los Angeles hospital on December 16, 2005, four days before his 59th birthday. At his private funeral, his West Wing castmate, Kristin Chenoweth, sang the musical number “For Good” from the Broadway musical Wicked.

Was Martin Sheen friends with John Spencer?

Grieving even more than Josh, of course, is President Bartlet (Martin Sheen). Not only had the President and Leo been best friends, Sheen and Spencer were close friends as well, so the tears we see on Sheen’s face are the result of more than him being a great actor.

Why did The West Wing end?

The West Wing’s cancellation was the result of declining viewership and a shift in writing style, but was also the natural endpoint of the series.

Who becomes president after Bartlett?

Matt Santos (Jimmy Smits): Democratic candidate for president in 2006 (Seasons 6–7). Succeeds Josiah Bartlet as President of the United States. (Season 7).

Do Josh and Donna end up together?

YES, THEY CERTAINLY DO. In fact, Josh and Donna’s happily ever after comes complete with a matching set of his and hers offices when they’re named the president and first lady’s chiefs of staff, respectively. It’s a richly deserved cherry on top of the ice cream sundae that is The West Wing series finale.