I usually put together a list of notable folks that pass away during the year, with an emphasis on the music and entertainment industries--a few notable exceptions added in for interest. Each year I do this, I find myself adding up in my addled brain the sum total of talent we lost in the past 12 months either through accident, illness, crime or yes, old age. This year the sum was more than I wanted to consider. As I approach the half-century mark in my run at life, I'm finding that these losses are affecting me more acutely. This past year, 2006, seemed particularly moving with the loss of unique talents like Don Knotts, Darren McGavin, Lou Rawls, Al Lewis, Dan Curtis and Val Guest.
I can't help but feel an anchor to childhood detaching itself as each remarkable person passes on, its job being done, and being left with the memories of times shared. Add to that the reminder that none of us are getting any younger and we're forced to stare our own mortality in the face. There's a bit of selfishness in the loss of such talent, on my part, and that's realizing that these folks left an impression upon me, while I have done nothing of any worthy note. It's an odd mix of melancholy and inspiration.
Some of these folks are giants and are, in the best sense of the word, irreplaceable. That thought brings me to a rant I've had boiling in my guts for some time now and that's: the complete inaction on the part of the entertainment industry, especially the film industry, to preserve the works of the folks that made them billions.
Films rot in cans, forgotten, while other works are dumped and pimped through the discount bins at three bucks a shot. I'm not stupid, I know there's a film preservation society out there doing good work, but it isn't enough. Imagine having Johnny Carson's early TV episodes burned to make room in the vaults. Imagine the monumental collection of horror and sci-fi history being blown out at a garage sale. That did happen--ask Forry Ackerman. Where were the money men then? What kind of madness is this? It's bad enough that young women mistake posters of Marilyn Monroe for Madonna or teenaged boys have never heard of Clayton Moore, but add that they probably won't ever know because the movie and television industry today just doesn't care.
For some reason, it's easier to grind out the rehashed garbage that passes for original thought these days than to revisit the past and introduce these wonders to another generation.
Maybe I'm off my nut, maybe folks just don't give enough of a damn about what has come before to generate enough cash to wake those holding the strings into action.
Personally, I hoping I'm just off my nut because the other prospect is far too disappointing.
R.I.P. ??-2006
JERRY SUMMERS Died Jan. 1, 2006
Mr. Summers has added his expertise as a stuntman, stunt driver and actor to over 400 films and TV shows.
OSA MASSEN Died Jan. 2, 2006
Danish actress Osa Massen died at age 91. Ms. Massen had a busy film career in the late 1930s and 40s.
BARRY COWSILL Death Announced Jan. 3, 2006
Mr. Cowsill was a member of the band The Cowsills.
LOU RAWLS Died Jan. 5, 2006
Multi-Grammy winning singer/actor Lou Rawls died of brain and lung cancer at age 72.
LEONARD J. SOUTH Died Jan. 6, 2006
Cinematographer Leonard J. South died of pneumonia at age 92.
SHELLEY WINTERS Died Jan. 14, 2006
One of the last true Movie Stars is gone. Multi-Oscar-winning actress Shelley Winters died of heart failure at age 85.
WILSON PICKETT Died Jan. 18, 2006
Soul and Rock singer Wilson Pickett died of a heart attack at age 64.
ANTHONY FRANCIOSA Died Jan. 19, 2006
Oscar-nominated actor Anthony Franciosa died of a stroke at age 77.
ROBERT KNUDSON Died Jan. 21, 2006
Multi-Oscar-winning sound re-recordist Robert Knudson died died at age 80.
CHRISTOPHER PENN Died Jan. 24, 2006
Actor and brother to Sean Penn.
FAYARD NICHOLAS Died Jan. 24, 2006
Dancer/choreographer Fayard Nicholas died at age 91.
PAUL VALENTINE Died Jan. 26, 2006
Actor Paul Valentine died at age 87.
Gene Mc Fadden (56) Jan. 27, 2006
Singer/song writer.
CORETTA SCOTT KING Died Jan. 31, 2006
Coretta Scott King, widow of slain civil rights leader Martin Luther King Jr. died of complications from a stroke and heart attack at age 78.
MOIRA SHEARER Died Jan. 31, 2006
Famed ballet dancer Moira Shearer died two weeks after her 80th birthday.
AL LEWIS Died Feb. 3, 2006
Grandpa Munster died at age 82.
WALERIAN BOROWCZYK Died Feb. 3, 2006
Controversial Polish director Walerian Borowczyk died of heart failure at age 82.
FRANKLIN COVER Died Feb. 5, 2006
Character actor Franklin Cover died of pneumonia at age 77.
WILLIAM ALLEN CASTLEMAN Death Announced Feb. 5, 2006
Exploitation filmmaker Willaim Castleman died at age 83.
AKIRA IFUKUBE Died Feb. 8, 2006
Prolific composer Akira Ifukube died of multiple organ failure at age 91.
PEDRO GONZALEZ-GONZALEZ Died Feb. 8, 2006
Actor Pedro Gonzalez-Gonzalez died of cancer at age 80.
PHIL BROWN (89) Feb. 9, 2006
Actor: Uncle Owen in Star Wars
PETER BENCHLEY Died Feb. 11, 2006
Author Peter Benchley died of the lung disease idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis at age 65.
ANDREAS KATSULAS Died Feb. 13 , 2006
At the age of 59. Co-starred in the TV Sc-Fi series "Babylon 5"
PAUL CARR Died Feb. 17, 2006
Prolific character actor Paul Carr died of lung cancer at age 72.
RICHARD BRIGHT Died Feb. 18, 2006
Character actor Richard Bright was killed in New York City when a tour bus ran over him.
DON KNOTTS Died Feb. 24, 2006
Actor Don Knotts died of lung cancer at age 81.
DENNIS WEAVER Died Feb. 24, 2006
Emmy-winning actor Dennis Weaver died of cancer at age 81.
DARREN MCGAVIN Died Feb. 25, 2006
Emmy-nominated actor Darren McGavin died at age 83.
JACK WILD Died Mar. 1, 2006
Oscar and BAFTA nominated actor/ singer and teen idol Jack Wild died of mouth cancer at age 53.
DANA REEVE Died Mar. 6, 2006
Dana Reeve, actress, activist and the widow of "Superman" actor Christopher Reeve died of lung cancer at age 44.
GORDON PARKS Died Mar. 7, 2006
Photojournalist, film director, writer, playwright and composer.
PETER TOMARKEN Died Mar. 13, 2006
Actor and former TV game show host Peter Tomarken and his wife were killed in a small plane crash off the coast of Santa Monica. Mr. Tomarken was 63 years old.
MAUREEN STAPLETON Died Mar. 13, 2006
Oscar-winning actress Maureen Stapleton died of natural causes at age 80.
OLEG CASSINI Died Mar. 17, 2006
Famed fashion designer Oleg Cassini died at age 92.
RICHARD FLEISCHER Died Mar. 24, 2006
Oscar-winning producer/director Richard Fleischer died in his sleep at age 89.
BUCK OWENS Died Mar. 25, 2006
Country music legend Buck Owens died of undisclosed causes at age 76.
DAN CURTIS Died Mar. 27, 2006
Emmy and DGA-winning director/producer Dan Curtis died of complications from a brain tumor at age 78.
CANDICE RIALSON Died Mar. 31, 2006 (reported Aug. 14, 2006)
Candice Rialson, like Rainbeau Smith, was one of the premiere B-movie queens of the 1970s.
GARY GRAY Died Apr. 4, 2006
Gary Gray appeared in 100 films and TV shows in his 20-year career. Mr. Gray died of cancer at age 69.
GENE PITNEY Died Apr. 5, 2006
Rock and roll singer/songwriter Gene Pitney died of natural causes at age 65.
VILGOT SJOMAN Died Apr. 10, 2006
Director Vilgot Sjoman died of a brain hemorrhage at age 81.
JUNE POINTER (52) , Apr. 11, 2006
One of the Ponter Sisters.
ALIDA VALLI Died Apr. 22, 2006
Italian horror film actress Alida Valli appeared in well over 100 films. Alida Valli died at age 84.
JAY PRESSON ALLEN Died May 1, 2006
Oscar-nominated writer Jay Presson Allen died of a stroke at age 84.
VAL GUEST Died May 10, 2006
Prolific director/writer Val Guest died at age 94. Val Guest directed the classic sci-fi films "The Quatermass Experiment" and its first sequel "Quatermass 2." For many people my age, these Hammer productions were the first adult sci-fi films they were exposed to. Brian Donlevy starred in the title role as Professor Bernard Quatermass. Val Guest had a long association with Hammer Films. Among the movies her directed for the famed British house of horror were "The Abominable Snowman," "The Camp on Blood Island" "The Day the Earth Caught Fire" and "When Dinosaurs Ruled the Earth." "When Dinosaurs Ruled the Earth" was a sequel to Ray Harryhausens "1,000,000 Years B.C."
Frankie Thomas (85), May 11, 2006
Actor. 1950's Tom Corbett, Space Cadet.
PAUL MARCO Died May 14, 2006
Actor Paul Marco died at age 80. Mr. Marco was best known for his role as Kelton the Cop in Ed Wood Jr.s infamous "Plan Nine From Outer Space." He worked with Ed Wood in three films including "The Bride of the Monster" and "Night of the Ghouls." He reprised his role as Kelton the Cop in the horror movie spoof "The Naked Monster." Mr. Marco was portrayed by actor Max Casella in Tim Burtons wonderful biopic "Ed Wood."
JORGE PORCEL Died May 16, 2006
The actor/comedian died of complications from gall bladder surgery at age 69. Mr. Porcel was best known for his various TV shows, but he also enjoyed a lengthy film career. His final film appearance was in a cameo role in Brian DePalmas excellent "Carlitos Way." Mr. Porcel became a Christian in 1995 and retired from his risque comedy routines.
FREDDIE GARRITY Died May 19, 2006
Freddie and the Dreamers enjoyed a number of hit records including their theme song "Do the Freddie." My favorite was the song "Im Telling You Now." That song showed a deeper talent than the gimmicky stage persona. The band appeared on many TV shows of the time including "Shindig." The Dreamers starred in the movie "Every Days a Holiday." Freddie Garrity died of circulatory problems at age 69.
HENRY BUMSTEAD Died May 24, 2006
Two-time Oscar-winning production designer/art director Henry Bumstead died of prostate cancer at age 91.
PAUL GLEASON Died May 27, 2006
Prolific character actor Paul Gleason died of mesothelioma at age 67. The illness which killed him is a rare lung cancer connected to asbestos exposure. Paul Gleason appeared in over 130 films and TV shows during his career. He was adept and both comedy and at playing the heavy.
VINCE WELNICK (55) Jun. 2, 2006
Keyboardist for the Grateful Dead.
JOHNNY GRANDE (76) Jun. 3, 2006
Original member of the rock group, Bill Haley and the Comets.
BILLY PRESTON Died June 5, 2006
Musician Billy Preston died of kidney failure.
INGO PREMINGER Died June 7, 2006
Oscar-nominated producer Ingo Preminger died at age 95.
ROBERT DONNER Died June 8, 2006
Veteran character actor Robert Donner died of a heart attack at age 75. Mr. Donner appeared in over 120 films and TV shows. He had one of the most familiar faces in TV and film Westerns. He appeared in six John Wayne films: "The Man Who Shot Liberty Valance," "El Dorado," "Chisum," "The Undefeated," "Rio Lobo" and "Rio Bravo." He worked with his friend Clint Eastwood in "Rawhide" and "High Plains Drifter." Mr. Donner played Boss Shorty in the classic "Cool Hand Luke."
BILL F. BLAIR Died June 14, 2006
Bill F. Blair died at age 75. Bill Blair was an independent film producer. He was also the founder of VCI Entertainment.
VINCENT SHERMAN Died June 18, 2006
Director Vincent Sherman died one month shy of his 100th birthday. Mr. Sherman went from acting to directing in the late 1930s. His first film was "The Return of Dr. X," which was Humphrey Bogarts only horror film.
RICHARD STAHL Died June 18, 2006
Another member of The Committee who added depth and credibility to "Billy Jack" was actor Richard Stahl.
AARON SPELLING Died June 23, 2006
Emmy-winning TV producer Aaron Spelling died of a stroke at age 83.
JAN MURRAY Died July 2, 2006
Comic actor Jan Murray died at age 89. The stand-up comic became a popular host of several TV series during the 1950s.
KASEY ROGERS (aka) LAURA ELLIOT Died July 6, 2006
Actress Kasey Rogers died at age 79. Ms. Rogers had battled cancer for a number of years and had suffered a stroke. Worked with Hitchcock on his classic "Strangers on a Train" as well as her recurring role as Louise Tate on the hit TV series "Bewitched." Kasey Rogers also acted under the name of Laura Elliot.
SYD BARRETT Died July 7, 2006
Pink Floyd co-founder Syd Barrett died of undisclosed causes at age 60.
JUNE ALLYSON Died July 8, 2006
Actress June Allyson died of pulmonary respiratory failure at age 88. Ms. Allyson rose from a contract player at MGM to one the studios top movie stars.
CHRISTIAN DRAKE Died July 9, 2006
Former actor turned businessman Christian Drake died at age 82. Mr. Drake appeared in over 100 films and TV shows during a career that stretched from just after WWII to the early 1960s. Sci-fi and horror fans remember him as the doomed state trooper killed by the giant ants at the beginning of the classic "Them!"
BARNARD HUGHES Died July 11, 2006
Tony and Emmy-winning actor Barnard Hughes died after a short illness five days before his 91st birthday. He appeared in nearly 100 films and TV shows. Horror and Sci-Fi movie fans like myself remember Mr. Hughes fondly for his performances in such films and TV shows as Brian DePalmas "Sisters," "Tron," "The Lost Boys" and "Dark Shadows."
KURT KREUGER Died July 12, 2006
German born actor Kurt Kreugar died of a stroke at age 89. Mr. Kreugar became a naturalized US citizen in 1944. Kurt Kreugar appeared in over 50 films and TV shows during his career.
RED BUTTONS Died July 13, 2006
Oscar winning actor Red Buttons died of vascular disease at age 87. Red Buttons won a Best Supporting Actor Oscar, a Golden Globe Award and was nominated for a BAFTA for his performance in the 1957 film "Sayonara." Red Buttons won an Emmy Award as Best Comedian for his 1950s TV show "The Red Buttons Show." He would later receive two more Golden Globe nominations as well as an Emmy nomination for his dramatic performances in "Harlow," "They Shoot Horses Dont They?" and the TV series "ER." Not bad for a man best known for his work as a comedian. Red Buttons appeared in nearly 150 films and TV shows during his lengthy career. He began as a comedian in clubs while still a teenager in the 1930s.
MICKEY SPILLANE Died July 17, 2006
The prolific mystery writer created Mike Hammer, one of the greatest fictional detectives of all time. Mike Hammer has been portrayed by such actors as Stacy Keach, Armand Assanti, Darren McGavin, Ralph Meeker and Mickey Spillane himself. Mickey Spillane gave his no-nonsense detective the sexiest secretary imaginable. Velda was erotic on the page and has been portrayed by some very beautiful actresses including Shannon Whirry and Pamela Anderson.
JACK WARDEN Died July 19, 2006
Oscar-nominated and Emmy-winning actor Jack Warden died after a lengthy illness at age 85. His biggest period of success came in the 1970s. Mr. Wardens credits in the 50s and 60s include "Run Silent, Run Deep," "The Twilight Zone," "The Untouchables," "Bonanza," "Donovans Reef," the original version of "The Thin Red Line" and "Wagon Train."
MAKO Died July 21, 2006
Oscar and Tony nominated actor Mako died of esophageal cancer at age 72. He was nominated for a Tony Award as Best Actor in a Musical for the 1975 Broadway production of "Pacific Overtures." Mako appeared in over 130 films and TV shows. He was also the co-founder of the East West Theater, this nations first Asian American theater company. Though he rarely was given film work that rose to the level of "The Sand Pebbles.
SIMONETTA STEFANELLI Died July 23, 2006
Italian actress Simonetta Stefanelli died of cancer at age 51. Ms. Stefanelli was 16-years-old when see played the doomed first wife of gangster Michael Corleone in "The Godfather."
ARTHUR LEE (61) Aug. 3, 2006
Front manof the 60s' group Love.
LOIS JANUARY Died Aug. 7, 2006
Actress Lois January died of Alzheimers Disease at age 93. Ms. January appeared in nearly 50 films and TV shows during her career. The bulk of her work was in the 1930s. Ms. January appeared in "The Wizard of Oz" playing a manicurist who worked on Judy Garland in the Emerald City.
MIKE DOUGLAS Died Aug. 11, 2006
Singer/TV personality Mike Douglas died on his 81st birthday.
BRUNO KIRBY Died Aug. 14, 2006
Actor Bruno Kirby died of Leukemia at age 57.
ALAN VINT Died Aug. 16, 2006
Character actor Alan Vint died from multiple organ failures stemming from various infections and illnesses.
JOE ROSENTHAL Died Aug. 20, 2006
Pulitzer prize winning photographer Joe Rosenthal died of natural causes at age 94.
BRUCE GARY (55) Aug 22, 2006
Drummer for the group, The Knack.
MEYNARD FERGUSON (78) Aug. 23, 2006
Canadian Musician, trumpet player and bandleader.
JOSEPH STEFANO Died Aug. 25, 2006
Writer/producer Joseph Stefano died of a heart attack at age 84. Mr. Stefano wrote the screenplay of Alfred Hitchcocks classic horror film "Psycho." Mr. Stefano adapted the Robert Bloch novel to the screen. He convinced Hitchcock to lengthen the books beginning. Instead of having the Marion Crane character check into the motel and get killed right away as happened in the book, Mr. Stefano added the great beginning and a classic film was born. For the first time, the films biggest star was unexpectedly killed after 20 minutes. The rest is history. Mr./ Stefano was also a producer on many episodes of the original sci-fi TV series "The Outer Limits." Other credits include the 1969 horror film "The Eye of the Cat," "Snowbeast" and "Psycho IV: The Beginning."
JON DOUGH Died Aug. 27, 2006
Adult film superstar Jon Dough committed suicide at age 43. His birth name was Chet Anuszek.
GLENN FORD Died Aug. 30, 2006
Award-winning actor Glenn Ford died in bed at age 90. Mr. Ford suffered a series of illnesses for the past few years. The Golden Globe winning and BAFTA nominated actor appeared in over 100 films and TV shows during his career. Though he was born in Canada, Glenn Ford became a US citizen in 1936. Superhero fans will fondly remember Glenn Ford as Pa Kent in Richard Donners classic "Superman."
WILLIAM ALDRICH Died Aug. 31, 2006
Producer William Aldrich died of cancer at age 62.
STEVE IRWIN Died Sept. 4, 2006
Steve Irwin, the conservationist and TV star known as the Crocodile Hunter was killed when a stingray pierced his heart while filming an episode of the TV series "Oceans Deadliest." Steve Irwin was 44 years old.
REMY BELVAUX Died Sept. 4, 2006
Belgian director Remy Belvaux died at age 38. No cause of death was disclosed. Remy Belvaux only directed one film, but that film brought him worldwide attention. "Man Bites Dog" was a mockumentary about a serial killer.
ROBERT EARL JONES Died Sept. 7, 2006
Actor Robert Earl Jones died at age 96. Mr. Jones was the father of actor James Earl Jones. Mr. Jones acting career began in the 1930s. My first memory of Mr. Jones was as Robert Redfords ill-fated partner Luther during the beginning scenes of "The Sting." Among his many credits are the excellent Film Noir "Odds Against Tomorrow," Elia Kazans " Wild River," "The Cotton Club," "Trading Places," "Sleepaway Camp," "The Sophisticated Gents," "Witness" and "Maniac Cop 2."
S. JOHN LAUNER Died Sept. 8, 2006
Prolific character actor S. John Launer died. Mr. Launer was born in 1919. Launer acted in such films as "I Was a Teenage Werewolf," "Creature With the Atom Brain" and "The Werewolf.
PAT CORLEY Died Sept. 11, 2006
Actor Pat Corley died of congestive heart failure at age 76. Mr. Corley played Phil the bartender on the hit TV series "Murphy Brown."
MICKEY HARGITAY Died Sept. 14, 2006
Former Mr. Universe and actor Mickey Hargitay died at age 80. Mickey Hargitay was the father of Emmy-winning actress Mariska Hargitay. She is the daughter of Mr. Hargitay and actress Jayne Mansfield. Mickey Hargitay was a world-class bodybuilder in the 1950. In 1957 he appeared in bit parts in "Will Success Spoil Rock Hunter?" and "Slaughter on 10th Avenue." Mr. Hargitay moved his film career to Europe and appeared in numerous horror films, Westerns and Sword and Sandal epics. His credits included starring roles in the demented horror film "Delirium," "The Reincarnation of Isabel," "Lady Frankenstein," "Hercules vs. the Hydra."
SVEN NYKVIST Died Sept. 20, 2006
Multi-Oscar winning cinematographer Sven Nykvist died after a lengthy illness at age 83. He had suffered from a rare form of dementia for some time. Sven Nykvist collaborated with Swedish master Ingmar Bergman on over 20 films. Though the two worked together once in the early 1950s, it was the 1960 film "The Virgin Spring" which marked the beginning of their steady collaboration. Bergmans work in the 1960s is one of the most powerful bodies of work by any director in the history of cinema.
EDWARD ALBERT Died Sept. 22, 2006
Actor Edward Albert died of lung cancer at age 55. Mr. Albert was the son of multi-Oscar nominated actor Eddie Albert. Eddie Albert died last May. Edward Albert won a Golden Globe as Most Promising Newcomer for the 1972 film "Butterflies Are Free." Edward Albert appeared in over 120 films and TV shows during his career.
RENATO POLSELLI Died Oct. 1, 2006
Italian horror master Renato Polselli died at age 84. Mr. Polsetti was a contemporary of Mario Bava. He directed s number of memorable Italian horror films during the early 1960s. During the 1970s and 80s, he adopted the nom de plume Ralph Brown and directed a group of sex-laced gore films more on par with the work of Jesus Franco. His Ralph Brown work has quite a cult following. Mr. Polsettis early work includes the first Italian horror film to begin production during the worldwide horror film revival begun in the late 1950s. "The Vampire and the Ballerina" was released in 1960. His 1963 follow-up "The Vampire of the Opera" did not enjoy the success of the earlier film and has been rarely seen. Mr. Roselli also directed several dramas and the Spaghetti Western "Sheriff Wont Shoot." The Western starred Mickey Hargitay. The late actor worked with the director on two of his Ralph Brown horror films: "Delirium" and "The Reincarnation of Isabel." Other films from his Ralph Brown period include "The Truth According to Satan," the XXX-rated "Revelations of a Psychiatrist in a World of Perverse Sex," "Mania" and "Oscenita."
FRANCES BERGEN Died Oct. 2, 2006
Actress Frances Bergen died at age 84 after a lengthy illness. She was the mother of actress Candice Bergen and the widow of actor/ventriloquist Edgar Bergen. Ms. Bergen appeared with her daughter in the films "Rich and Famous" and "Hollywood Wives" as well as her daughters TV series "Murphy Brown."
TAMARA DOBSON Died Oct. 2, 2006
Actress Tamara Dobson died of complications of pneumonia and multiple sclerosis at age 59. Tamara Dobson was the FIRST female heroine of the Blaxploitation film craze. Before "Foxy Brown" and the rest was "Cleopatra Jones."
JERRY BELSON Died Oct. 10, 2006
Emmy-winning writer Jerry Belson died of cancer at age 68. Mr. Belson was nominated sixteen times for Emmy Awards. He won twice for "The Tracey Ullman Show" and "Tracey Takes On." Jerry Belson wrote the Made for TV Western "Evil Roy Slade."
GILLO PONTECORVO Died Oct. 12, 2006
Oscar nominated director Gillo Pontecorvo died at age 86. Mr. Pontecorvo was nominated for Best Director and Best Screenplay Oscars for the 1966 film "The Battle of Algiers."
FREDDY FENDER Died Oct. 14, 2005
Multi-Grammy award winning singer Freddy Fender died of lung cancer at age 69.
CHRISTOPHER GLENN Died Oct. 17, 2005
Christopher Glenn died of liver cancer at age 68. On November 4, 2005 he is to be inducted in the Radio Hall of Fame.
PHYLLIS KIRK Died Oct. 19, 2006
Actress Phyllis Kirk died of a post cerebral aneurysm at age 79. Ms. Kirk was best known for her role as the heroine in the 3-D classic "House of Wax." Ms. Kirk was the object of obsession of Vincent Prices character in the 1953 horror-film. Her "unmasking" of Vincent Price in "House of Wax" rivaled Mary Philbins unmasking of Lon Chaney Sr. in "Phantom of the Opera" for shear shock value. Ms. Kirk also starred opposite Peter Lawford as Nora Charles in the TV series version of "The Thin Man." Ms. Kirks other film and TV credits include "Our Very Own," "Three Guys Named Mike," "About Face," "Crime Wave," "Your Show of Shows," "Studio One," "Climax!," "The Red Buttons Show," "The Twilight Zone," "Playhouse 90" and "The F.B.I."
SANDY WEST Died Oct. 21, 2006
Sandy West the cofounder of and drummer for the all-girl rock band "The Runaways" died of lung cancer at age 47.
JANE WYATT Died Oct. 22, 2006
Emmy-winning actress Jane Wyatt died of natural causes at age 96. Ms. Wyatt worked in film and TV for over 60 years. She was known to millions of TV fans for her role in the 1950s and 60s TV series "Father Knows Best."
ARTHUR HILL Oct. 22, 2006
Tony Award winning actor Arthur Hill died of Alzheimers Disease at age 84. The Canadian born actor served his native country in the Royal Canadian Air Force during WWII.
TINA AUMONT Died Oct. 28, 2006
Actress Tina Aumont died of a pulmonary embolism at age 60. She appeared in over 50 films during her career. Ms. Aumont appeared in a number of notable films including "Modesty Blaise," "Texas Across the River," "Torso," "Salon Kitty," "The Divine Nymph" and "Fellinis Casanova."
NIGEL KNEALE Died Oct. 29, 2006
BAFTA-nominated screenwriter Nigel Kneale died at age 84. Though Mr. Kneales BAFTA nominations were for the excellent dramas "The Entertainer" and "Look Back in Anger," he is best remembered for his intelligent science fiction films in the "Quatermass Experiment" series. He wrote the 1953 TV series "The Quatermass Experiment." Reginald Tate played Professor Quatermass in the first TV series. That was followed in 1955 by "The Creeping Unknown" with Brian Donlevy as the professor. John Robinson took on the role in the 1955 TV series "Quatermass II." Brian Donlevy returned to the role in the ValGuest directed film "Quatermass 2: Enemies From Space." 1958 saw yet another TV series "Quatermass and the Pit." Roy Ward Baker directed the 1967 film version of "Quatermass and the Pit." Sir John Mills starred as the professor in the 1979 film and TV series entitled "The Quatermass Conclusion." Nigel Kneales contributions to the sci-fi and horror genres are not limited to his "Quatermass" films. He wrote the script for Ray Harryhausens "The First Men IN the Moon." Other genre credits include "The Abominable Snowman," the TV version of "1984," "The Witches" with Joan Crawford and "Halloween III: Season of the Witch." Mr. Kneale also wrote the script for "H.M.S. Defiant."
ADRIENNE SHELLY Died Nov. 1, 2006
Actress/writer/director Adrienne Shelly was murdered in her office. The 40-year-old actress was found hanging in her shower. A construction worker was later arrested and reportedly admitted that he killed the actress and then tried to make it look like a suicide. Ms. Shelly was known for her work in the Hal Hartley films "The Unbelievable Truth" and "Trust."
WILLIAM STYRON Died Nov. 1, 2006
Author William Styron died of pneumonia at age 81. Mr. Styron wrote the novel "Sophies Choice."
LEONARD SCHRADER Died Nov. 2, 2006
Oscar-nominated screenwriter and director Leonard Schrader died of heart failure at age 62. Mr. Schrader received and Oscar nomination for "The Kiss of the Spider Woman."
BASIL POLEDOURIS Died Nov. 9, 2006
Emmy-winning composer Basil Poledouris died of cancer at age 61. Mr. Poledouris won an Emmy Award for his score of "Lonesome Dove." He composed the scores for nearly 100 films. Mr. Poledouris scored such films as "Conan the Barbarian," "Big Wednesday," "The Blue Lagoon," "Summer Lovers," "Red Dawn," "Flesh & Blood," "Iron Eagle," "RoboCop," "Cherry 2000," "Farewell To the King".
ED BRADLEY Died Nov. 9, 2006
Emmy-winning TV news journalist Ed Bradley died of leukemia at age 65. Ed Bradley won 19 Emmy Awards for his work.
JACK PALANCE Died Nov. 10, 2006
Oscar-winning actor Jack Palance died of natural causes at age 87.
ANICEE ALVINA Died Nov. 10, 2006
French actress Anicee Alvina died of cancer at age 53.
GARY GRAVER Died Nov. 16, 2006
Cinematographer Gary Graver died of cancer at age 68. Mr. Graver worked in the adult film industry as well as main stream Hollywood. His legit credits include Orson Welles short film "Moby Dick," Ron Howards directorial debut "Grand Theft Auto," "Moonshine County Express," "Bugs Bunny Superstar," Al Adamsons "I Spit on Your Corpse" and "Dracula vs. Frankenstein." Mr. Graver shot the sexploitation film "The Student Body."
JEREMY SLATE Died Nov. 19, 2006
Actor Jeremy Slate died of complications following surgery for esophageal cancer at age 80. Mr. Slate appeared in nearly 100 TV shows and films. His movie credits include "North By Northwest," "GI Blues," "Girls! Girls! Girls!," "The Sons of Katie Elder," "True Grit," "The Mini Skirt Mob" and "The Lawnmower Man."
ROBERT ALTMAN Died Nov. 20, 2006
Oscar winning director Robert Altman died of undisclosed causes at age 81. Robert Altman was given a Lifetime Achievement Oscar earlier this year. Best Director nominations came for "M*A*S*H," " Nashville," "The Player," "Short Cuts" and " Gosford Park." "Nashville" and "Gosford Park" also earned Mr. Altman Best Picture nominations.
KEVIN MCCLORY Died Nov. 20, 2006
Producer/writer director Kevin McClory died at age 80. Ms. McClory holds an important and infamous role in the history of James Bond films. In 1958 Mr. McClory collaborated with Ian Fleming and Jack Whittingham on a script for a James Bond film. The script was never made. Ian Fleming later used the story as the basis of his novel "Thunderball" without giving Mr. McClory credit for his contributions. A lawsuit settlement resulted in Mr. McClory getting credit on the novel and retaining the film rights to "Thunderball." As a result Mr. McClory got a producer credit on "Thunderball." He was the executive producer on the 1983 remake "Never Say Never Again." The 1983 film was famous for Sean Connerys return to the role of James Bond. "Never Say Never Again" was not produced by the Broccoli/Saltzman team.
PHILIPPE NOIRET Died Nov. 23, 2006
Award-winning actor Philippe Noiret died of cancer at age 76. Philippe Noiret appeared in over 150 films and TV shows during his lengthy career.
ANITA ODAY Died Nov. 23, 2006
Jazz great Anita ODay died of cardiac arrest age 87.
BETTY COMDEN Died Nov. 23, 2006
Oscar nominated lyricist Betty Comden died of heart failure at age 89.
CLAUDE JADE Died Dec. 1, 2006
French actress Claude Jade died of cancer at age 58. Ms. Jade appeared in nearly 100 films and TV shows during her career.
MARISKA VERES Died Dec. 2, 2006
Mariska Veres, lead singer for the band "Shocking Blue," died of cancer at age 59.
ABIGAIL SHELTON Died Dec. 11, 2006
Actress Abby Shelton died in her sleep at age 74.
PETER BOYLE Died Dec. 12, 2006
Award-winning actor Peter Boyle died of the blood cancer Multiple Myeloma and heart disease at age 71. Peter Boyle appeared in 130 films and TV shows. He was nominated for 10 Emmy awards, winning once for an episode of "The X-Files."
HALLIE DAMORE Died Dec. 14, 2006
Oscar-nominated makeup artist Hallie DAmore shot her husband, noted photographer Richard DAmore multiple times killing him before turning the gun on herself.
MIKE EVANS Died Dec. 14, 2006
Actor/writer Mike Evans died of throat cancer at age 57. Mr. Evans was best known for playing the character Lionel Jefferson on the TV series "All in the Family" and its spin-off "The Jeffersons."
DENIS PAYTON Died Dec. 17, 2006
Rocker Denis Payton died of cancer at age 63. Mr. Payton was the saxophone player for the British invasion group "The Dave Clark Five."
KYOKO KISHIDA Died Dec. 17, 2006
Renowned Japanese actress Kyoko Kishida died of respiratory failure due to a brain tumor at age 76.
JOSEPH BARBERA Died Dec. 19, 2006
Oscar-nominated producer/animator Joseph Barbera died of natural causes at age 95. Mr. Barbera was creative partner with the late William Hanna.
JAMES BROWN Died Dec. 25, 2006
Grammy-winning singer James Brown died at age 73.
GERALD RUDOLPH FORD Died Dec. 26, 2006
Gerald R. Ford, the 38th President of the United States died at age 93.
SADDAM HUSSEIN Died Dec. 30., 2006
Former dictator of Iraq.
Originally Published on Horror-Web by TrollKing 01.16.07
I can't help but feel an anchor to childhood detaching itself as each remarkable person passes on, its job being done, and being left with the memories of times shared. Add to that the reminder that none of us are getting any younger and we're forced to stare our own mortality in the face. There's a bit of selfishness in the loss of such talent, on my part, and that's realizing that these folks left an impression upon me, while I have done nothing of any worthy note. It's an odd mix of melancholy and inspiration.
Some of these folks are giants and are, in the best sense of the word, irreplaceable. That thought brings me to a rant I've had boiling in my guts for some time now and that's: the complete inaction on the part of the entertainment industry, especially the film industry, to preserve the works of the folks that made them billions.
Films rot in cans, forgotten, while other works are dumped and pimped through the discount bins at three bucks a shot. I'm not stupid, I know there's a film preservation society out there doing good work, but it isn't enough. Imagine having Johnny Carson's early TV episodes burned to make room in the vaults. Imagine the monumental collection of horror and sci-fi history being blown out at a garage sale. That did happen--ask Forry Ackerman. Where were the money men then? What kind of madness is this? It's bad enough that young women mistake posters of Marilyn Monroe for Madonna or teenaged boys have never heard of Clayton Moore, but add that they probably won't ever know because the movie and television industry today just doesn't care.
For some reason, it's easier to grind out the rehashed garbage that passes for original thought these days than to revisit the past and introduce these wonders to another generation.
Maybe I'm off my nut, maybe folks just don't give enough of a damn about what has come before to generate enough cash to wake those holding the strings into action.
Personally, I hoping I'm just off my nut because the other prospect is far too disappointing.
R.I.P. ??-2006
JERRY SUMMERS Died Jan. 1, 2006
Mr. Summers has added his expertise as a stuntman, stunt driver and actor to over 400 films and TV shows.
OSA MASSEN Died Jan. 2, 2006
Danish actress Osa Massen died at age 91. Ms. Massen had a busy film career in the late 1930s and 40s.
BARRY COWSILL Death Announced Jan. 3, 2006
Mr. Cowsill was a member of the band The Cowsills.
LOU RAWLS Died Jan. 5, 2006
Multi-Grammy winning singer/actor Lou Rawls died of brain and lung cancer at age 72.
LEONARD J. SOUTH Died Jan. 6, 2006
Cinematographer Leonard J. South died of pneumonia at age 92.
SHELLEY WINTERS Died Jan. 14, 2006
One of the last true Movie Stars is gone. Multi-Oscar-winning actress Shelley Winters died of heart failure at age 85.
WILSON PICKETT Died Jan. 18, 2006
Soul and Rock singer Wilson Pickett died of a heart attack at age 64.
ANTHONY FRANCIOSA Died Jan. 19, 2006
Oscar-nominated actor Anthony Franciosa died of a stroke at age 77.
ROBERT KNUDSON Died Jan. 21, 2006
Multi-Oscar-winning sound re-recordist Robert Knudson died died at age 80.
CHRISTOPHER PENN Died Jan. 24, 2006
Actor and brother to Sean Penn.
FAYARD NICHOLAS Died Jan. 24, 2006
Dancer/choreographer Fayard Nicholas died at age 91.
PAUL VALENTINE Died Jan. 26, 2006
Actor Paul Valentine died at age 87.
Gene Mc Fadden (56) Jan. 27, 2006
Singer/song writer.
CORETTA SCOTT KING Died Jan. 31, 2006
Coretta Scott King, widow of slain civil rights leader Martin Luther King Jr. died of complications from a stroke and heart attack at age 78.
MOIRA SHEARER Died Jan. 31, 2006
Famed ballet dancer Moira Shearer died two weeks after her 80th birthday.
AL LEWIS Died Feb. 3, 2006
Grandpa Munster died at age 82.
WALERIAN BOROWCZYK Died Feb. 3, 2006
Controversial Polish director Walerian Borowczyk died of heart failure at age 82.
FRANKLIN COVER Died Feb. 5, 2006
Character actor Franklin Cover died of pneumonia at age 77.
WILLIAM ALLEN CASTLEMAN Death Announced Feb. 5, 2006
Exploitation filmmaker Willaim Castleman died at age 83.
AKIRA IFUKUBE Died Feb. 8, 2006
Prolific composer Akira Ifukube died of multiple organ failure at age 91.
PEDRO GONZALEZ-GONZALEZ Died Feb. 8, 2006
Actor Pedro Gonzalez-Gonzalez died of cancer at age 80.
PHIL BROWN (89) Feb. 9, 2006
Actor: Uncle Owen in Star Wars
PETER BENCHLEY Died Feb. 11, 2006
Author Peter Benchley died of the lung disease idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis at age 65.
ANDREAS KATSULAS Died Feb. 13 , 2006
At the age of 59. Co-starred in the TV Sc-Fi series "Babylon 5"
PAUL CARR Died Feb. 17, 2006
Prolific character actor Paul Carr died of lung cancer at age 72.
RICHARD BRIGHT Died Feb. 18, 2006
Character actor Richard Bright was killed in New York City when a tour bus ran over him.
DON KNOTTS Died Feb. 24, 2006
Actor Don Knotts died of lung cancer at age 81.
DENNIS WEAVER Died Feb. 24, 2006
Emmy-winning actor Dennis Weaver died of cancer at age 81.
DARREN MCGAVIN Died Feb. 25, 2006
Emmy-nominated actor Darren McGavin died at age 83.
JACK WILD Died Mar. 1, 2006
Oscar and BAFTA nominated actor/ singer and teen idol Jack Wild died of mouth cancer at age 53.
DANA REEVE Died Mar. 6, 2006
Dana Reeve, actress, activist and the widow of "Superman" actor Christopher Reeve died of lung cancer at age 44.
GORDON PARKS Died Mar. 7, 2006
Photojournalist, film director, writer, playwright and composer.
PETER TOMARKEN Died Mar. 13, 2006
Actor and former TV game show host Peter Tomarken and his wife were killed in a small plane crash off the coast of Santa Monica. Mr. Tomarken was 63 years old.
MAUREEN STAPLETON Died Mar. 13, 2006
Oscar-winning actress Maureen Stapleton died of natural causes at age 80.
OLEG CASSINI Died Mar. 17, 2006
Famed fashion designer Oleg Cassini died at age 92.
RICHARD FLEISCHER Died Mar. 24, 2006
Oscar-winning producer/director Richard Fleischer died in his sleep at age 89.
BUCK OWENS Died Mar. 25, 2006
Country music legend Buck Owens died of undisclosed causes at age 76.
DAN CURTIS Died Mar. 27, 2006
Emmy and DGA-winning director/producer Dan Curtis died of complications from a brain tumor at age 78.
CANDICE RIALSON Died Mar. 31, 2006 (reported Aug. 14, 2006)
Candice Rialson, like Rainbeau Smith, was one of the premiere B-movie queens of the 1970s.
GARY GRAY Died Apr. 4, 2006
Gary Gray appeared in 100 films and TV shows in his 20-year career. Mr. Gray died of cancer at age 69.
GENE PITNEY Died Apr. 5, 2006
Rock and roll singer/songwriter Gene Pitney died of natural causes at age 65.
VILGOT SJOMAN Died Apr. 10, 2006
Director Vilgot Sjoman died of a brain hemorrhage at age 81.
JUNE POINTER (52) , Apr. 11, 2006
One of the Ponter Sisters.
ALIDA VALLI Died Apr. 22, 2006
Italian horror film actress Alida Valli appeared in well over 100 films. Alida Valli died at age 84.
JAY PRESSON ALLEN Died May 1, 2006
Oscar-nominated writer Jay Presson Allen died of a stroke at age 84.
VAL GUEST Died May 10, 2006
Prolific director/writer Val Guest died at age 94. Val Guest directed the classic sci-fi films "The Quatermass Experiment" and its first sequel "Quatermass 2." For many people my age, these Hammer productions were the first adult sci-fi films they were exposed to. Brian Donlevy starred in the title role as Professor Bernard Quatermass. Val Guest had a long association with Hammer Films. Among the movies her directed for the famed British house of horror were "The Abominable Snowman," "The Camp on Blood Island" "The Day the Earth Caught Fire" and "When Dinosaurs Ruled the Earth." "When Dinosaurs Ruled the Earth" was a sequel to Ray Harryhausens "1,000,000 Years B.C."
Frankie Thomas (85), May 11, 2006
Actor. 1950's Tom Corbett, Space Cadet.
PAUL MARCO Died May 14, 2006
Actor Paul Marco died at age 80. Mr. Marco was best known for his role as Kelton the Cop in Ed Wood Jr.s infamous "Plan Nine From Outer Space." He worked with Ed Wood in three films including "The Bride of the Monster" and "Night of the Ghouls." He reprised his role as Kelton the Cop in the horror movie spoof "The Naked Monster." Mr. Marco was portrayed by actor Max Casella in Tim Burtons wonderful biopic "Ed Wood."
JORGE PORCEL Died May 16, 2006
The actor/comedian died of complications from gall bladder surgery at age 69. Mr. Porcel was best known for his various TV shows, but he also enjoyed a lengthy film career. His final film appearance was in a cameo role in Brian DePalmas excellent "Carlitos Way." Mr. Porcel became a Christian in 1995 and retired from his risque comedy routines.
FREDDIE GARRITY Died May 19, 2006
Freddie and the Dreamers enjoyed a number of hit records including their theme song "Do the Freddie." My favorite was the song "Im Telling You Now." That song showed a deeper talent than the gimmicky stage persona. The band appeared on many TV shows of the time including "Shindig." The Dreamers starred in the movie "Every Days a Holiday." Freddie Garrity died of circulatory problems at age 69.
HENRY BUMSTEAD Died May 24, 2006
Two-time Oscar-winning production designer/art director Henry Bumstead died of prostate cancer at age 91.
PAUL GLEASON Died May 27, 2006
Prolific character actor Paul Gleason died of mesothelioma at age 67. The illness which killed him is a rare lung cancer connected to asbestos exposure. Paul Gleason appeared in over 130 films and TV shows during his career. He was adept and both comedy and at playing the heavy.
VINCE WELNICK (55) Jun. 2, 2006
Keyboardist for the Grateful Dead.
JOHNNY GRANDE (76) Jun. 3, 2006
Original member of the rock group, Bill Haley and the Comets.
BILLY PRESTON Died June 5, 2006
Musician Billy Preston died of kidney failure.
INGO PREMINGER Died June 7, 2006
Oscar-nominated producer Ingo Preminger died at age 95.
ROBERT DONNER Died June 8, 2006
Veteran character actor Robert Donner died of a heart attack at age 75. Mr. Donner appeared in over 120 films and TV shows. He had one of the most familiar faces in TV and film Westerns. He appeared in six John Wayne films: "The Man Who Shot Liberty Valance," "El Dorado," "Chisum," "The Undefeated," "Rio Lobo" and "Rio Bravo." He worked with his friend Clint Eastwood in "Rawhide" and "High Plains Drifter." Mr. Donner played Boss Shorty in the classic "Cool Hand Luke."
BILL F. BLAIR Died June 14, 2006
Bill F. Blair died at age 75. Bill Blair was an independent film producer. He was also the founder of VCI Entertainment.
VINCENT SHERMAN Died June 18, 2006
Director Vincent Sherman died one month shy of his 100th birthday. Mr. Sherman went from acting to directing in the late 1930s. His first film was "The Return of Dr. X," which was Humphrey Bogarts only horror film.
RICHARD STAHL Died June 18, 2006
Another member of The Committee who added depth and credibility to "Billy Jack" was actor Richard Stahl.
AARON SPELLING Died June 23, 2006
Emmy-winning TV producer Aaron Spelling died of a stroke at age 83.
JAN MURRAY Died July 2, 2006
Comic actor Jan Murray died at age 89. The stand-up comic became a popular host of several TV series during the 1950s.
KASEY ROGERS (aka) LAURA ELLIOT Died July 6, 2006
Actress Kasey Rogers died at age 79. Ms. Rogers had battled cancer for a number of years and had suffered a stroke. Worked with Hitchcock on his classic "Strangers on a Train" as well as her recurring role as Louise Tate on the hit TV series "Bewitched." Kasey Rogers also acted under the name of Laura Elliot.
SYD BARRETT Died July 7, 2006
Pink Floyd co-founder Syd Barrett died of undisclosed causes at age 60.
JUNE ALLYSON Died July 8, 2006
Actress June Allyson died of pulmonary respiratory failure at age 88. Ms. Allyson rose from a contract player at MGM to one the studios top movie stars.
CHRISTIAN DRAKE Died July 9, 2006
Former actor turned businessman Christian Drake died at age 82. Mr. Drake appeared in over 100 films and TV shows during a career that stretched from just after WWII to the early 1960s. Sci-fi and horror fans remember him as the doomed state trooper killed by the giant ants at the beginning of the classic "Them!"
BARNARD HUGHES Died July 11, 2006
Tony and Emmy-winning actor Barnard Hughes died after a short illness five days before his 91st birthday. He appeared in nearly 100 films and TV shows. Horror and Sci-Fi movie fans like myself remember Mr. Hughes fondly for his performances in such films and TV shows as Brian DePalmas "Sisters," "Tron," "The Lost Boys" and "Dark Shadows."
KURT KREUGER Died July 12, 2006
German born actor Kurt Kreugar died of a stroke at age 89. Mr. Kreugar became a naturalized US citizen in 1944. Kurt Kreugar appeared in over 50 films and TV shows during his career.
RED BUTTONS Died July 13, 2006
Oscar winning actor Red Buttons died of vascular disease at age 87. Red Buttons won a Best Supporting Actor Oscar, a Golden Globe Award and was nominated for a BAFTA for his performance in the 1957 film "Sayonara." Red Buttons won an Emmy Award as Best Comedian for his 1950s TV show "The Red Buttons Show." He would later receive two more Golden Globe nominations as well as an Emmy nomination for his dramatic performances in "Harlow," "They Shoot Horses Dont They?" and the TV series "ER." Not bad for a man best known for his work as a comedian. Red Buttons appeared in nearly 150 films and TV shows during his lengthy career. He began as a comedian in clubs while still a teenager in the 1930s.
MICKEY SPILLANE Died July 17, 2006
The prolific mystery writer created Mike Hammer, one of the greatest fictional detectives of all time. Mike Hammer has been portrayed by such actors as Stacy Keach, Armand Assanti, Darren McGavin, Ralph Meeker and Mickey Spillane himself. Mickey Spillane gave his no-nonsense detective the sexiest secretary imaginable. Velda was erotic on the page and has been portrayed by some very beautiful actresses including Shannon Whirry and Pamela Anderson.
JACK WARDEN Died July 19, 2006
Oscar-nominated and Emmy-winning actor Jack Warden died after a lengthy illness at age 85. His biggest period of success came in the 1970s. Mr. Wardens credits in the 50s and 60s include "Run Silent, Run Deep," "The Twilight Zone," "The Untouchables," "Bonanza," "Donovans Reef," the original version of "The Thin Red Line" and "Wagon Train."
MAKO Died July 21, 2006
Oscar and Tony nominated actor Mako died of esophageal cancer at age 72. He was nominated for a Tony Award as Best Actor in a Musical for the 1975 Broadway production of "Pacific Overtures." Mako appeared in over 130 films and TV shows. He was also the co-founder of the East West Theater, this nations first Asian American theater company. Though he rarely was given film work that rose to the level of "The Sand Pebbles.
SIMONETTA STEFANELLI Died July 23, 2006
Italian actress Simonetta Stefanelli died of cancer at age 51. Ms. Stefanelli was 16-years-old when see played the doomed first wife of gangster Michael Corleone in "The Godfather."
ARTHUR LEE (61) Aug. 3, 2006
Front manof the 60s' group Love.
LOIS JANUARY Died Aug. 7, 2006
Actress Lois January died of Alzheimers Disease at age 93. Ms. January appeared in nearly 50 films and TV shows during her career. The bulk of her work was in the 1930s. Ms. January appeared in "The Wizard of Oz" playing a manicurist who worked on Judy Garland in the Emerald City.
MIKE DOUGLAS Died Aug. 11, 2006
Singer/TV personality Mike Douglas died on his 81st birthday.
BRUNO KIRBY Died Aug. 14, 2006
Actor Bruno Kirby died of Leukemia at age 57.
ALAN VINT Died Aug. 16, 2006
Character actor Alan Vint died from multiple organ failures stemming from various infections and illnesses.
JOE ROSENTHAL Died Aug. 20, 2006
Pulitzer prize winning photographer Joe Rosenthal died of natural causes at age 94.
BRUCE GARY (55) Aug 22, 2006
Drummer for the group, The Knack.
MEYNARD FERGUSON (78) Aug. 23, 2006
Canadian Musician, trumpet player and bandleader.
JOSEPH STEFANO Died Aug. 25, 2006
Writer/producer Joseph Stefano died of a heart attack at age 84. Mr. Stefano wrote the screenplay of Alfred Hitchcocks classic horror film "Psycho." Mr. Stefano adapted the Robert Bloch novel to the screen. He convinced Hitchcock to lengthen the books beginning. Instead of having the Marion Crane character check into the motel and get killed right away as happened in the book, Mr. Stefano added the great beginning and a classic film was born. For the first time, the films biggest star was unexpectedly killed after 20 minutes. The rest is history. Mr./ Stefano was also a producer on many episodes of the original sci-fi TV series "The Outer Limits." Other credits include the 1969 horror film "The Eye of the Cat," "Snowbeast" and "Psycho IV: The Beginning."
JON DOUGH Died Aug. 27, 2006
Adult film superstar Jon Dough committed suicide at age 43. His birth name was Chet Anuszek.
GLENN FORD Died Aug. 30, 2006
Award-winning actor Glenn Ford died in bed at age 90. Mr. Ford suffered a series of illnesses for the past few years. The Golden Globe winning and BAFTA nominated actor appeared in over 100 films and TV shows during his career. Though he was born in Canada, Glenn Ford became a US citizen in 1936. Superhero fans will fondly remember Glenn Ford as Pa Kent in Richard Donners classic "Superman."
WILLIAM ALDRICH Died Aug. 31, 2006
Producer William Aldrich died of cancer at age 62.
STEVE IRWIN Died Sept. 4, 2006
Steve Irwin, the conservationist and TV star known as the Crocodile Hunter was killed when a stingray pierced his heart while filming an episode of the TV series "Oceans Deadliest." Steve Irwin was 44 years old.
REMY BELVAUX Died Sept. 4, 2006
Belgian director Remy Belvaux died at age 38. No cause of death was disclosed. Remy Belvaux only directed one film, but that film brought him worldwide attention. "Man Bites Dog" was a mockumentary about a serial killer.
ROBERT EARL JONES Died Sept. 7, 2006
Actor Robert Earl Jones died at age 96. Mr. Jones was the father of actor James Earl Jones. Mr. Jones acting career began in the 1930s. My first memory of Mr. Jones was as Robert Redfords ill-fated partner Luther during the beginning scenes of "The Sting." Among his many credits are the excellent Film Noir "Odds Against Tomorrow," Elia Kazans " Wild River," "The Cotton Club," "Trading Places," "Sleepaway Camp," "The Sophisticated Gents," "Witness" and "Maniac Cop 2."
S. JOHN LAUNER Died Sept. 8, 2006
Prolific character actor S. John Launer died. Mr. Launer was born in 1919. Launer acted in such films as "I Was a Teenage Werewolf," "Creature With the Atom Brain" and "The Werewolf.
PAT CORLEY Died Sept. 11, 2006
Actor Pat Corley died of congestive heart failure at age 76. Mr. Corley played Phil the bartender on the hit TV series "Murphy Brown."
MICKEY HARGITAY Died Sept. 14, 2006
Former Mr. Universe and actor Mickey Hargitay died at age 80. Mickey Hargitay was the father of Emmy-winning actress Mariska Hargitay. She is the daughter of Mr. Hargitay and actress Jayne Mansfield. Mickey Hargitay was a world-class bodybuilder in the 1950. In 1957 he appeared in bit parts in "Will Success Spoil Rock Hunter?" and "Slaughter on 10th Avenue." Mr. Hargitay moved his film career to Europe and appeared in numerous horror films, Westerns and Sword and Sandal epics. His credits included starring roles in the demented horror film "Delirium," "The Reincarnation of Isabel," "Lady Frankenstein," "Hercules vs. the Hydra."
SVEN NYKVIST Died Sept. 20, 2006
Multi-Oscar winning cinematographer Sven Nykvist died after a lengthy illness at age 83. He had suffered from a rare form of dementia for some time. Sven Nykvist collaborated with Swedish master Ingmar Bergman on over 20 films. Though the two worked together once in the early 1950s, it was the 1960 film "The Virgin Spring" which marked the beginning of their steady collaboration. Bergmans work in the 1960s is one of the most powerful bodies of work by any director in the history of cinema.
EDWARD ALBERT Died Sept. 22, 2006
Actor Edward Albert died of lung cancer at age 55. Mr. Albert was the son of multi-Oscar nominated actor Eddie Albert. Eddie Albert died last May. Edward Albert won a Golden Globe as Most Promising Newcomer for the 1972 film "Butterflies Are Free." Edward Albert appeared in over 120 films and TV shows during his career.
RENATO POLSELLI Died Oct. 1, 2006
Italian horror master Renato Polselli died at age 84. Mr. Polsetti was a contemporary of Mario Bava. He directed s number of memorable Italian horror films during the early 1960s. During the 1970s and 80s, he adopted the nom de plume Ralph Brown and directed a group of sex-laced gore films more on par with the work of Jesus Franco. His Ralph Brown work has quite a cult following. Mr. Polsettis early work includes the first Italian horror film to begin production during the worldwide horror film revival begun in the late 1950s. "The Vampire and the Ballerina" was released in 1960. His 1963 follow-up "The Vampire of the Opera" did not enjoy the success of the earlier film and has been rarely seen. Mr. Roselli also directed several dramas and the Spaghetti Western "Sheriff Wont Shoot." The Western starred Mickey Hargitay. The late actor worked with the director on two of his Ralph Brown horror films: "Delirium" and "The Reincarnation of Isabel." Other films from his Ralph Brown period include "The Truth According to Satan," the XXX-rated "Revelations of a Psychiatrist in a World of Perverse Sex," "Mania" and "Oscenita."
FRANCES BERGEN Died Oct. 2, 2006
Actress Frances Bergen died at age 84 after a lengthy illness. She was the mother of actress Candice Bergen and the widow of actor/ventriloquist Edgar Bergen. Ms. Bergen appeared with her daughter in the films "Rich and Famous" and "Hollywood Wives" as well as her daughters TV series "Murphy Brown."
TAMARA DOBSON Died Oct. 2, 2006
Actress Tamara Dobson died of complications of pneumonia and multiple sclerosis at age 59. Tamara Dobson was the FIRST female heroine of the Blaxploitation film craze. Before "Foxy Brown" and the rest was "Cleopatra Jones."
JERRY BELSON Died Oct. 10, 2006
Emmy-winning writer Jerry Belson died of cancer at age 68. Mr. Belson was nominated sixteen times for Emmy Awards. He won twice for "The Tracey Ullman Show" and "Tracey Takes On." Jerry Belson wrote the Made for TV Western "Evil Roy Slade."
GILLO PONTECORVO Died Oct. 12, 2006
Oscar nominated director Gillo Pontecorvo died at age 86. Mr. Pontecorvo was nominated for Best Director and Best Screenplay Oscars for the 1966 film "The Battle of Algiers."
FREDDY FENDER Died Oct. 14, 2005
Multi-Grammy award winning singer Freddy Fender died of lung cancer at age 69.
CHRISTOPHER GLENN Died Oct. 17, 2005
Christopher Glenn died of liver cancer at age 68. On November 4, 2005 he is to be inducted in the Radio Hall of Fame.
PHYLLIS KIRK Died Oct. 19, 2006
Actress Phyllis Kirk died of a post cerebral aneurysm at age 79. Ms. Kirk was best known for her role as the heroine in the 3-D classic "House of Wax." Ms. Kirk was the object of obsession of Vincent Prices character in the 1953 horror-film. Her "unmasking" of Vincent Price in "House of Wax" rivaled Mary Philbins unmasking of Lon Chaney Sr. in "Phantom of the Opera" for shear shock value. Ms. Kirk also starred opposite Peter Lawford as Nora Charles in the TV series version of "The Thin Man." Ms. Kirks other film and TV credits include "Our Very Own," "Three Guys Named Mike," "About Face," "Crime Wave," "Your Show of Shows," "Studio One," "Climax!," "The Red Buttons Show," "The Twilight Zone," "Playhouse 90" and "The F.B.I."
SANDY WEST Died Oct. 21, 2006
Sandy West the cofounder of and drummer for the all-girl rock band "The Runaways" died of lung cancer at age 47.
JANE WYATT Died Oct. 22, 2006
Emmy-winning actress Jane Wyatt died of natural causes at age 96. Ms. Wyatt worked in film and TV for over 60 years. She was known to millions of TV fans for her role in the 1950s and 60s TV series "Father Knows Best."
ARTHUR HILL Oct. 22, 2006
Tony Award winning actor Arthur Hill died of Alzheimers Disease at age 84. The Canadian born actor served his native country in the Royal Canadian Air Force during WWII.
TINA AUMONT Died Oct. 28, 2006
Actress Tina Aumont died of a pulmonary embolism at age 60. She appeared in over 50 films during her career. Ms. Aumont appeared in a number of notable films including "Modesty Blaise," "Texas Across the River," "Torso," "Salon Kitty," "The Divine Nymph" and "Fellinis Casanova."
NIGEL KNEALE Died Oct. 29, 2006
BAFTA-nominated screenwriter Nigel Kneale died at age 84. Though Mr. Kneales BAFTA nominations were for the excellent dramas "The Entertainer" and "Look Back in Anger," he is best remembered for his intelligent science fiction films in the "Quatermass Experiment" series. He wrote the 1953 TV series "The Quatermass Experiment." Reginald Tate played Professor Quatermass in the first TV series. That was followed in 1955 by "The Creeping Unknown" with Brian Donlevy as the professor. John Robinson took on the role in the 1955 TV series "Quatermass II." Brian Donlevy returned to the role in the ValGuest directed film "Quatermass 2: Enemies From Space." 1958 saw yet another TV series "Quatermass and the Pit." Roy Ward Baker directed the 1967 film version of "Quatermass and the Pit." Sir John Mills starred as the professor in the 1979 film and TV series entitled "The Quatermass Conclusion." Nigel Kneales contributions to the sci-fi and horror genres are not limited to his "Quatermass" films. He wrote the script for Ray Harryhausens "The First Men IN the Moon." Other genre credits include "The Abominable Snowman," the TV version of "1984," "The Witches" with Joan Crawford and "Halloween III: Season of the Witch." Mr. Kneale also wrote the script for "H.M.S. Defiant."
ADRIENNE SHELLY Died Nov. 1, 2006
Actress/writer/director Adrienne Shelly was murdered in her office. The 40-year-old actress was found hanging in her shower. A construction worker was later arrested and reportedly admitted that he killed the actress and then tried to make it look like a suicide. Ms. Shelly was known for her work in the Hal Hartley films "The Unbelievable Truth" and "Trust."
WILLIAM STYRON Died Nov. 1, 2006
Author William Styron died of pneumonia at age 81. Mr. Styron wrote the novel "Sophies Choice."
LEONARD SCHRADER Died Nov. 2, 2006
Oscar-nominated screenwriter and director Leonard Schrader died of heart failure at age 62. Mr. Schrader received and Oscar nomination for "The Kiss of the Spider Woman."
BASIL POLEDOURIS Died Nov. 9, 2006
Emmy-winning composer Basil Poledouris died of cancer at age 61. Mr. Poledouris won an Emmy Award for his score of "Lonesome Dove." He composed the scores for nearly 100 films. Mr. Poledouris scored such films as "Conan the Barbarian," "Big Wednesday," "The Blue Lagoon," "Summer Lovers," "Red Dawn," "Flesh & Blood," "Iron Eagle," "RoboCop," "Cherry 2000," "Farewell To the King".
ED BRADLEY Died Nov. 9, 2006
Emmy-winning TV news journalist Ed Bradley died of leukemia at age 65. Ed Bradley won 19 Emmy Awards for his work.
JACK PALANCE Died Nov. 10, 2006
Oscar-winning actor Jack Palance died of natural causes at age 87.
ANICEE ALVINA Died Nov. 10, 2006
French actress Anicee Alvina died of cancer at age 53.
GARY GRAVER Died Nov. 16, 2006
Cinematographer Gary Graver died of cancer at age 68. Mr. Graver worked in the adult film industry as well as main stream Hollywood. His legit credits include Orson Welles short film "Moby Dick," Ron Howards directorial debut "Grand Theft Auto," "Moonshine County Express," "Bugs Bunny Superstar," Al Adamsons "I Spit on Your Corpse" and "Dracula vs. Frankenstein." Mr. Graver shot the sexploitation film "The Student Body."
JEREMY SLATE Died Nov. 19, 2006
Actor Jeremy Slate died of complications following surgery for esophageal cancer at age 80. Mr. Slate appeared in nearly 100 TV shows and films. His movie credits include "North By Northwest," "GI Blues," "Girls! Girls! Girls!," "The Sons of Katie Elder," "True Grit," "The Mini Skirt Mob" and "The Lawnmower Man."
ROBERT ALTMAN Died Nov. 20, 2006
Oscar winning director Robert Altman died of undisclosed causes at age 81. Robert Altman was given a Lifetime Achievement Oscar earlier this year. Best Director nominations came for "M*A*S*H," " Nashville," "The Player," "Short Cuts" and " Gosford Park." "Nashville" and "Gosford Park" also earned Mr. Altman Best Picture nominations.
KEVIN MCCLORY Died Nov. 20, 2006
Producer/writer director Kevin McClory died at age 80. Ms. McClory holds an important and infamous role in the history of James Bond films. In 1958 Mr. McClory collaborated with Ian Fleming and Jack Whittingham on a script for a James Bond film. The script was never made. Ian Fleming later used the story as the basis of his novel "Thunderball" without giving Mr. McClory credit for his contributions. A lawsuit settlement resulted in Mr. McClory getting credit on the novel and retaining the film rights to "Thunderball." As a result Mr. McClory got a producer credit on "Thunderball." He was the executive producer on the 1983 remake "Never Say Never Again." The 1983 film was famous for Sean Connerys return to the role of James Bond. "Never Say Never Again" was not produced by the Broccoli/Saltzman team.
PHILIPPE NOIRET Died Nov. 23, 2006
Award-winning actor Philippe Noiret died of cancer at age 76. Philippe Noiret appeared in over 150 films and TV shows during his lengthy career.
ANITA ODAY Died Nov. 23, 2006
Jazz great Anita ODay died of cardiac arrest age 87.
BETTY COMDEN Died Nov. 23, 2006
Oscar nominated lyricist Betty Comden died of heart failure at age 89.
CLAUDE JADE Died Dec. 1, 2006
French actress Claude Jade died of cancer at age 58. Ms. Jade appeared in nearly 100 films and TV shows during her career.
MARISKA VERES Died Dec. 2, 2006
Mariska Veres, lead singer for the band "Shocking Blue," died of cancer at age 59.
ABIGAIL SHELTON Died Dec. 11, 2006
Actress Abby Shelton died in her sleep at age 74.
PETER BOYLE Died Dec. 12, 2006
Award-winning actor Peter Boyle died of the blood cancer Multiple Myeloma and heart disease at age 71. Peter Boyle appeared in 130 films and TV shows. He was nominated for 10 Emmy awards, winning once for an episode of "The X-Files."
HALLIE DAMORE Died Dec. 14, 2006
Oscar-nominated makeup artist Hallie DAmore shot her husband, noted photographer Richard DAmore multiple times killing him before turning the gun on herself.
MIKE EVANS Died Dec. 14, 2006
Actor/writer Mike Evans died of throat cancer at age 57. Mr. Evans was best known for playing the character Lionel Jefferson on the TV series "All in the Family" and its spin-off "The Jeffersons."
DENIS PAYTON Died Dec. 17, 2006
Rocker Denis Payton died of cancer at age 63. Mr. Payton was the saxophone player for the British invasion group "The Dave Clark Five."
KYOKO KISHIDA Died Dec. 17, 2006
Renowned Japanese actress Kyoko Kishida died of respiratory failure due to a brain tumor at age 76.
JOSEPH BARBERA Died Dec. 19, 2006
Oscar-nominated producer/animator Joseph Barbera died of natural causes at age 95. Mr. Barbera was creative partner with the late William Hanna.
JAMES BROWN Died Dec. 25, 2006
Grammy-winning singer James Brown died at age 73.
GERALD RUDOLPH FORD Died Dec. 26, 2006
Gerald R. Ford, the 38th President of the United States died at age 93.
SADDAM HUSSEIN Died Dec. 30., 2006
Former dictator of Iraq.
Originally Published on Horror-Web by TrollKing 01.16.07
