Michael Lerner, known for ‘Elf,’ ‘Barton Fink’ roles, dies

WASHINGTON — Michael Lerner, best known for his role in the psychological comedy “Barton Fink,” died on Saturday night. He was 81. 

The actor’s nephew Sam Lerner, who stars in “The Goldbergs,” confirmed the star’s death on Instagram with a tribute post for his uncle. A cause of death was not immediately known.

“We lost a legend last night. It’s hard to put into words how brilliant my uncle Michael was, and how influential he was to me. His stories always inspired me and made me fall in love with acting,” Sam’s caption read. “He was the coolest, most…