American actors died in Suicide
Here are 50 famous actors from United States of America died in Suicide:
Kerry Von Erich
Kerry Von Erich (February 3, 1960 Niagara Falls-February 18, 1993 Denton) otherwise known as Kerry Gene Adkisson, Texas Tornado, Modern Day Warrior or Cosmic Cowboy #2 was an American wrestler and actor. He had two children, Lacey Von Erich and Hollie Adkisson.
Kerry came from a family of wrestlers, known as the Von Erichs, and was part of Texas wrestling history. He won his first championship title, the NWA World Heavyweight Championship, at the age of 23. Over the course of his career, Kerry competed in various wrestling promotions including World Class Championship Wrestling, All Japan Pro Wrestling, and the World Wrestling Federation. He was known for his charismatic personality, high-flying moves, and his finishing maneuver, the Tornado Punch.
Aside from his wrestling career, Kerry also had minor roles in Hollywood movies, including "Problem Child" and "Clownhouse." Unfortunately, his career was cut short when he lost his right foot in a motorcycle accident in 1986. Despite this setback, he continued to wrestle with a prosthetic foot and even won tag team championships with his brother.
Kerry struggled with personal demons throughout his life, including substance abuse and depression, and tragically took his own life in 1993 at the age of 33. However, his legacy as a wrestling icon and member of the legendary Von Erich wrestling family lives on to this day.
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Elliott Smith
Elliott Smith (August 6, 1969 Omaha-October 21, 2003 Los Angeles) a.k.a. Elliott Smoth, Elliot Smith, Steven Paul Smith, Steven Paul "Elliott" Smith, Elliott or Elliott Stillwater-Rotter was an American singer, musician, songwriter, actor, film score composer, film editor and singer-songwriter.
He first gained prominence in the 1990s as a member of the indie rock band Heatmiser before transitioning to a successful solo career. Smith's music was known for its introspective and often melancholic lyrics, delicate guitar work, and multi-layered vocal harmonies. He released six solo albums during his lifetime, including the critically acclaimed Either/Or and XO, and was nominated for an Academy Award for his work on the Good Will Hunting soundtrack. Despite his success, Smith struggled with addiction and depression throughout much of his life, and died by suicide in 2003 at the age of 34. His legacy has had a lasting impact on indie and alternative music, with countless artists citing him as an influence.
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Jerzy Kosiński
Jerzy Kosiński (June 14, 1933 Łódź-May 3, 1991 Manhattan) a.k.a. Jerzy Kosinski, Józef Lewinkopf, Jerzy N. Kosinski, Jerzy Lewinkopf or Jerzy Nikodem Kosinski was an American novelist, author, actor, screenwriter and photographer.
Kosiński was born to Jewish parents in Łódź, Poland, and survived World War II by living under a false identity with Catholic families. After the war, he worked as a journalist before emigrating to the United States in 1957. He enrolled in Columbia University and later became a naturalized US citizen.
Kosiński's debut novel, "The Painted Bird," was published in 1965 and garnered critical acclaim for its harrowing depiction of a young Jewish boy's experiences during World War II. He went on to write several more novels, including "Being There," which was adapted into a film starring Peter Sellers.
In addition to his literary career, Kosiński also appeared in several films and television shows, including "Reds," "The Shining," and "The People vs. Larry Flynt." He also worked as a screenwriter and photographer.
Kosiński's later years were marred by controversy, with some accusing him of plagiarism and fabricating portions of his autobiography. He died in 1991 by suicide, leaving behind a complex legacy as a writer and public figure.
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Freddie Prinze
Freddie Prinze (June 22, 1954 Washington Heights-January 29, 1977 Los Angeles) a.k.a. Frederick Karl Pruetzel, Pete, Frederick Karl Pruetezl, freddie_prinze or Freddie James Prinze was an American actor and stand-up comedian. He had one child, Freddie Prinze, Jr..
Freddie Prinze rose to fame in the 1970s with his role as Chico Rodriguez on the hit television show "Chico and the Man". He was known for his quick wit and comedic timing, and was considered one of the most promising young talents in the entertainment industry. He also appeared in several films, including "Car Wash" and "The Million Dollar Rip-Off". Unfortunately, Prinze struggled with depression and drug addiction, and tragically took his own life at the age of 22. Despite his short career, he remains an influential figure in both the comedy and Hispanic communities.
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Abbie Hoffman
Abbie Hoffman (November 30, 1936 Worcester-April 12, 1989 Solebury Township) also known as abbie_hoffman, Abbott Howard Hoffman, Abbot Howard "Abbie" Hoffman or Hoffman, Abbie was an American writer, social activist, actor and psychologist. He had three children, Andrew Hoffman, Amy Hoffman and America Hoffman.
Hoffman was known for his active involvement in political and social movements during the 1960s and 1970s, particularly as a member of the countercultural movement. He was one of the co-founders of the Youth International Party, also known as the Yippies, and was a prominent member of the anti-Vietnam War movement. He was also involved in numerous civil rights and anti-capitalist campaigns.
Hoffman authored several books, including his influential autobiography "Revolution for the Hell of It", outlining his experiences within the Yippies and his radical activism. Additionally, he was an actor and starred in a handful of feature films, such as "Steal This Movie!" which tells the story of his own life.
Hoffman struggled with bipolar disorder throughout his life, and tragically took his own life in 1989 at the age of 52. Despite his controversial legacy, he remains an important figure in American counterculture and is remembered for his dedication to advocating for social change through non-violent means.
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Doodles Weaver
Doodles Weaver (May 11, 1911 Los Angeles-January 17, 1983 Los Angeles) a.k.a. Winstead Sheffield Weaver, Winstead Sheffield Glenndenning Dixon Weaver, Doodles Win Weaver, Winstead Weaver, Doddles Weaver or Doodlebug was an American actor, comedian, musician, singer and presenter. He had two children, Janella J. Weaver and Winstead B. Weaver.
Doodles Weaver was known for his zany comedic style and often played eccentric characters in film and television. He worked closely with his brother, comedian Sigourney Weaver, and the two performed together as "The Weaver Brothers and Elviry" on radio and in films. Weaver was also a talented musician and songwriter, and wrote and performed several comedic novelty songs throughout his career. In addition to his work in the entertainment industry, he also served in the United States Army during World War II. Despite facing personal challenges later in life, Weaver remained a beloved figure in the comedy world until his death in 1983.
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Lou Tellegen
Lou Tellegen (November 26, 1881 Sint-Oedenrode-October 29, 1934 Hollywood) also known as Isidore Louis Bernard Edmon van Dommelen, Lou-Tellegen, Lon Tillegin, Isidor Van Dameler or Isadore Louis Bernard van Dommelem was an American screenwriter, film director and actor.
Lou Tellegen was born in the Netherlands and began his career as a stage actor in Europe. He achieved much success on Broadway and in London's West End before making the move to Hollywood in 1915. In Hollywood, he appeared in numerous films as an actor, often playing dashing and romantic leading men.
In addition to his work as an actor, Tellegen also wrote and directed films. He wrote the screenplay for the film "The Eyes of Youth" (1919), which starred his then-wife, Geraldine Farrar. He also directed the film "The Parisian Tigress" (1919).
Tellegen's personal life was often the subject of media attention. He was married several times, including to the actress Geraldine Farrar and to the socialite and heiress Winifred Hudnut (sister of Helena Rubinstein). Tellegen was known for his dashing good looks and flamboyant personality, and was often seen at high society events.
Despite his success in Hollywood, Tellegen's career declined in the 1920s. He was often typecast as a romantic leading man, and as the film industry changed, he struggled to find work. He returned to the stage in the 1930s, but his health began to decline. He died of a self-inflicted gunshot wound in 1934.
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Charles Boyer
Charles Boyer (August 28, 1899 Figeac-August 26, 1978 Phoenix) otherwise known as the last of the cinema's great lovers was an American actor, television producer and film producer. He had one child, Michael Charles Boyer.
Charles Boyer was born in France and had a successful career in French cinema before making his way to Hollywood in 1934. He quickly became known for his charming persona and romantic roles in films such as "Algiers" (1938) and "Gaslight" (1944), both of which earned him Academy Award nominations. In addition to his acting career, Boyer was also a skilled linguist and spoke several languages fluently. He served in the French army during World War I and was active in the French Resistance during World War II. Later in his career, Boyer appeared in several Broadway productions and worked as a television producer. He was married to British actress Pat Paterson until her death in 1970.
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Chester Morris
Chester Morris (February 16, 1901 New York City-September 11, 1970 New Hope) also known as John Chester Brooks Morris was an American actor. He had three children, Kenton Morris, Cynthia Morris and Brooks Morris.
Morris began his acting career on Broadway in the 1920s before transitioning to films in the 1930s. He is perhaps best known for his role as Boston Blackie in a series of 14 films. He also appeared in a variety of other films, such as "Five Came Back," "The Divorcee," and "The Big House," for which he received an Academy Award nomination for Best Actor. Morris also had a successful career in television, appearing in shows like "The Twilight Zone" and "Perry Mason." In addition to acting, he was also a pilot and served in the United States Army Air Forces during World War II. Morris passed away in 1970 at the age of 69.
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Spalding Gray
Spalding Gray (June 5, 1941 Providence-January 11, 2004 New York City) also known as Spalding Rockwell Gray, Victor Alexander, Spud or Spuddy was an American screenwriter, actor, playwright, writer and performer. He had two children, Forrest Dylan Gray and Theo Spalding Gray.
Gray was best known for his autobiographical monologues such as "Swimming to Cambodia," "Monster in a Box," and "Gray's Anatomy." These monologues were often performed by Gray himself and explored his own life experiences with topics ranging from his travels around the world to his relationships and personal struggles with depression. Gray was also an accomplished actor, appearing in films such as "The Killing Fields" and "Beaches," as well as television shows like "Law & Order: Criminal Intent." Gray experienced a tragic end to his life, committing suicide by jumping from the Staten Island Ferry.
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Justin Pierce
Justin Pierce (March 21, 1975 London-July 10, 2000 Paradise) a.k.a. Justin Charles Pierce was an American actor.
He is best known for his role as Casper in the 1995 movie "Kids". Pierce was born in London to a Welsh father and Australian mother. He moved to the United States when he was eight years old and grew up in New York City. After his breakout role in "Kids", Pierce went on to star in other films such as "Next Friday" and "A Brother's Kiss". In addition to acting, Pierce was also a professional skateboarder and musician. He formed a band called "Jester" and played guitar in a punk rock band called "Mary Jane". Tragically, Pierce died by suicide at the age of 25 in his hotel room in Paradise, California.
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Jonathan Brandis
Jonathan Brandis (April 13, 1976 Danbury-November 12, 2003 West Hollywood) also known as Jonathan Gregory Brandis, The J-Man or Jon was an American actor, screenwriter and film director.
He began his career as a child model, appearing in numerous print ads and television commercials before transitioning to acting. Brandis landed his breakout role in the 1990s NBC teen sitcom "Saved by the Bell: The New Class" before becoming a household name for his starring role in the 1995 film "The NeverEnding Story III".
Brandis went on to star in other notable films, including "Ladybugs" and "Sidekicks", and appeared in popular TV dramas like "SeaQuest DSV" and "Murder, She Wrote". He was also an accomplished film director and screenwriter.
Tragically, at the age of 27, Jonathan Brandis died by suicide. His death was mourned by fans and colleagues in the entertainment industry, who remembered him as a talented and promising young actor.
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Ray Combs
Ray Combs (April 3, 1956 Hamilton-June 2, 1996 Glendale) also known as Raymond Neil Combs, Jr. or Ray Jr. was an American comedian, actor and presenter. His children are called Raymond Neil Combs III, Whitney Nicole Combs, Kelly Jo Combs, Chelsy Jae Combs, Kirby Lee Combs and Cody Ryan Combs.
Combs is best known for hosting the popular game show "Family Feud" from 1988 until 1994, and then again in 1994 and 1995. Prior to his career in television, Combs worked as a stand-up comedian, touring clubs across the United States. He also appeared on several TV shows, including "The Tonight Show" and "Late Night with David Letterman".
Tragically, Combs suffered from depression and took his own life in 1996 at the age of 40. His legacy lives on through his work in comedy and television, and his family has worked to raise awareness about depression and suicide prevention in his memory.
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Pete Duel
Pete Duel (February 24, 1940 Rochester-December 31, 1971 Hollywood) also known as Peter Ellstrom Deuel, Peter E. Deuel, Peter Deuel or Pete Deuel was an American actor.
He is best known for his role as Hannibal Heyes in the popular western TV series "Alias Smith and Jones" which aired from 1971 to 1973. He also appeared in other notable TV series such as "Love on a Rooftop" and "Gidget". As a stage actor, Duel appeared in the original Broadway production of "Generation" and the off-Broadway production of "The Fantasticks". Tragically, Duel died by suicide in 1971 at the age of 31, which cut short his promising acting career. Despite his short career, he is remembered as a talented and versatile actor.
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David Strickland
David Strickland (October 14, 1969 Glen Cove-March 22, 1999 Las Vegas) also known as David Gordon Strickland Jr. was an American actor.
He was best known for his role as Todd Stities in the American sitcom "Suddenly Susan". Strickland grew up in rural Oregon and had a passion for acting from a young age. He studied at the American Academy of Dramatic Arts in California before moving on to pursue a career in TV and film.
Beyond acting, Strickland had a keen interest in music and was known to play guitar and sing. Unfortunately, his life was cut short when he tragically took his own life at the age of 29. Despite his short career, Strickland is still remembered as a talented actor and musician who brought joy and laughter to the screen.
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Charles Rocket
Charles Rocket (August 24, 1949 Bangor-October 7, 2005 Canterbury) also known as Charles Claverie, Charles Hamburger, Charles Kennedy, Charlie Rocket, Charles Adams Claverie, Charlie Kennedy, Charlie Rockett or Charlie Hamburger was an American journalist, actor, voice actor, presenter and musician.
He was best known for his work on "Saturday Night Live" in the early 1980s, where he was a cast member for one season. Rocket also had roles in various movies and television shows throughout his career, including "Dumb and Dumber," "Hocus Pocus," "Max Headroom," and "Moonlighting." He was also the voice of Dick Tracy in the 1990 animated series. Beyond acting, Rocket was a talented musician and performed with various bands throughout his life. Rocket tragically passed away in 2005 at the age of 56, after an apparent suicide.
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Ben Pollack
Ben Pollack (June 22, 1903 Chicago-June 7, 1971 Palm Springs) otherwise known as Father of Swing was an American musician, bandleader, drummer, film score composer and actor.
Pollack started playing drums at a young age and quickly became an in-demand musician in Chicago during the 1920s jazz scene. He then moved to New York City and formed his own band in the early 1930s, which featured many future jazz legends such as Benny Goodman and Jack Teagarden.
He and his band became known for their danceable swing music and Pollack became one of the pioneers of the swing era. Pollack also led the house band on CBS Radio's "The Old Gold Show" in the late 1930s.
In addition to his musical career, Pollack also appeared in several films such as "The Big Broadcast of 1936" and "The Benny Goodman Story." He later moved to California and worked on film scores for movies and television shows.
Pollack remained active in music until his death in 1971 and his legacy as a pioneer of swing music continues to influence musicians today.
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Dave Garroway
Dave Garroway (July 13, 1913 Schenectady-July 21, 1982 Swarthmore) also known as David Cunningham Garroway or David Cunningham "Dave" Garroway was an American journalist and actor. His children are called Paris Garroway, Michael Garroway and David Garroway Jr.
Dave Garroway was one of the pioneers of American television. He is best known as the original host of NBC's "Today" show, which he hosted from 1952 to 1961. Garroway's easygoing personality and affable nature made him a beloved figure to millions of Americans who tuned in to watch him each morning. He was also a talented actor, appearing in several movies and television shows throughout his career.
Garroway grew up in a musical family and had a talent for playing the piano. He attended the University of Pennsylvania and originally planned to become a lawyer, but he was drawn to broadcasting and began his career in radio. He worked as a news reporter and announcer for several stations before landing at NBC.
After leaving "Today," Garroway continued to work in television and radio. He hosted several other shows, including "Wide Wide World" and "Dave's Place." He also wrote a book about his experiences in broadcasting called "The Dave Garroway Story: A Million Dollars Worth of Fun and Laughs."
Garroway's personal life was sometimes tumultuous. He struggled with depression and alcoholism and was divorced three times. However, he remained a beloved figure to many Americans, who remember him as the friendly and welcoming host who helped them start their day with a smile.
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Jack Little
Jack Little (May 30, 1899 London-April 9, 1956) also known as Little, Little Jack, John Leonard or Little Jack Little was an American songwriter, singer, actor and conductor.
He was born in London, England, but his family immigrated to the United States when he was just a child. Little became famous during the 1920s and 1930s for creating catchy and memorable tunes, such as "The Wedding of Jack and Jill" and "Jeepers Creepers," which became a jazz standard.
In addition to his career as a songwriter and performer, Little also acted in movies such as "The Great American Broadcast" and "The Hit Parade of 1941." He was also a conductor for various orchestras, including the NBC Symphony Orchestra.
Despite his success, Little struggled with alcoholism and his career declined in the 1940s. He died in 1956 from complications related to cirrhosis of the liver.
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Brian Keith
Brian Keith (November 14, 1921 Bayonne-June 24, 1997 Malibu) a.k.a. Robert Keith Richey Jr., Robert Keith Jr., Robert Alba Keith, Robert Keith, Jr. or Brian Robert Keith was an American actor and film editor. He had seven children, Betty Keith, Y. Robert Keith, Barbra Keith, Daisy Keith, Michael Keith, Rory Keith and Mimi Keith.
Keith began his acting career on Broadway in the late 1940s, and later transitioned to film and television in the 1950s. He appeared in over 100 films and television shows, including the popular Western television series "The Westerner" and "The Big Valley."
Keith was known for his tough guy roles, but he also had a talent for comedy. He received critical acclaim for his performance in the Broadway play "Da," and earned an Emmy Award for his role in the television series "Family Affair." In addition to acting, Keith also worked as a film editor on several projects throughout his career.
Despite his success in Hollywood, Keith struggled with personal issues, including alcoholism and depression. He tragically took his own life in 1997 at the age of 75.
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Gig Young
Gig Young (November 4, 1913 St. Cloud-October 19, 1978 Manhattan) a.k.a. Byron Elsworth Barr, Gig, Byron Barr, Ronald Reed or Bryant Fleming was an American actor. He had one child, Jennifer Young.
Gig Young began his acting career in the 1940s and appeared in several movies including "Come Fill the Cup" (1951) and "Desk Set" (1957). He received critical acclaim for his performance in the film "Teacher's Pet" (1958) which earned him an Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actor.
Young continued to act in movies and television throughout the 1960s and 1970s, appearing in popular shows such as "The Twilight Zone" and "The Wild Wild West". He also received another Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actor for his role in "They Shoot Horses, Don't They?" (1969).
Despite his success on the big screen, Young's personal life was plagued by problems, including several failed marriages and battles with addiction. Tragically, he died by suicide in 1978 at the age of 64.
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James Leo Herlihy
James Leo Herlihy (February 27, 1927 Detroit-October 21, 1993 Los Angeles) otherwise known as Jim or Jaime was an American writer, novelist, playwright and actor.
Herlihy is best known for his novels "Midnight Cowboy" and "All Fall Down", both of which were adapted into successful films. "Midnight Cowboy" won the 1966 John Creasey Memorial Award for best first novel of that year. Herlihy also wrote several other novels, plays and screenplays. He acted in a few films and on television as well, most notably in the film "The Strange One" and in an episode of "The Twilight Zone". Herlihy struggled with alcoholism and drug addiction for much of his adult life, and died of an overdose in 1993.
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Dennis Crosby
Dennis Crosby (July 13, 1934 Los Angeles-May 4, 1991 Novato) a.k.a. Dennis Michael Crosby, The Crosby Brothers or Dennis Michael Crosby Sr. was an American singer and actor. He had seven children, Denise Crosby, Gregory Crosby, Dennis Crosby Jr., Patrick Anthony Crosby, Erin Colleen Crosby, Kelly Lee Crosby and Catherine Denise Crosby.
Dennis Crosby was the son of the legendary singer and actor Bing Crosby, and he followed in his father's footsteps to become a musician and performer. During his career, he achieved moderate success as a singer, releasing several albums and appearing on his family's variety show, "The Bing Crosby Show," in the 1960s.
In addition to his music career, Dennis Crosby made a number of appearances on television and in film. He appeared in several episodes of "The Red Skelton Hour" and had a small role in the film "The Big Circus" in 1959.
Dennis Crosby struggled with personal issues throughout his life, including problems with addiction and depression. He suffered a heart attack and passed away in 1991, leaving behind a legacy as a talented performer and member of the iconic Crosby family.
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Ross Alexander
Ross Alexander (July 27, 1907 Brooklyn-January 2, 1937 Los Angeles) otherwise known as Alexander Ross Smith was an American actor.
Alexander began his career in the theatre and later transitioned to film in the 1930s. He starred in several successful movies such as "Captain Blood" (1935), "China Clipper" (1936) and "The Adventures of Marco Polo" (1938). Alexander was known for his charming personality, good looks and natural acting ability. Unfortunately, his promising career was cut short in 1937 when he died by suicide at the age of 29. His death shocked Hollywood and left a lasting impact on the film industry. Despite his short career, Alexander is remembered as a talented actor who had great potential.
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Richard Quine
Richard Quine (November 12, 1920 Detroit-June 10, 1989 Los Angeles) otherwise known as Dick was an American film director, actor, screenwriter, military officer, film producer, television director and television producer. He had three children, Katherine Quine, Victoria Quine and Timothy Richard Quine.
Throughout his career, Richard Quine directed more than twenty-five films, including "My Sister Eileen" (1955), "The Solid Gold Cadillac" (1956), and "Bell, Book and Candle" (1958). He also acted in several films and TV shows, including "Drive a Crooked Road" (1954) and "The Twilight Zone" (1963). Additionally, Quine produced and directed numerous television programs, such as "The Many Loves of Dobie Gillis" (1959-1963) and "The Munsters" (1964-1966).
Before entering the film industry, Quine served in World War II as a pilot for the United States Army Air Forces. He received several awards and medals for his service, including the Air Medal and the Purple Heart.
Despite his many accomplishments, Quine's life ended tragically when he committed suicide in 1989 at the age of 68.
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Douglas Kenney
Douglas Kenney (December 10, 1946 West Palm Beach-August 27, 1980 Kauai) also known as Douglas Clark Kenney or Douglas C. Kenney was an American magazine editor, screenwriter, actor, writer, entrepreneur and film producer.
He was best known as the co-founder of the National Lampoon magazine and for his contributions to the creation of the hit comedy film Animal House. Kenney attended Harvard University where he became a contributor to the humor publication, The Harvard Lampoon. He later moved to New York City and co-founded the National Lampoon magazine, which became one of the most popular and influential comedy magazines of the 1970s. Kenney also wrote and acted in several comedy films, including Caddyshack, and worked as a producer on films such as National Lampoon's Vacation. Despite his success, Kenney struggled with drug addiction and depression. He died at the age of 33 from a fall while on vacation in Hawaii, and his passing was mourned by the comedy community.
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Faron Young
Faron Young (February 25, 1932 Shreveport-December 10, 1996 Nashville) also known as Young Faron, Faronyoung, Farron Young, Young, Faron, The Singing Sheriff, The Young Sheriff or The Hillbilly Heartthrob was an American singer, singer-songwriter and actor. His child is called Robyn.
Young began his music career in the early 1950s, and by the end of the decade, he had become a successful country music artist with several chart-topping hits, including "Sweet Dreams," "Alone with You," and "Live Fast, Love Hard, Die Young." He was a member of the Grand Ole Opry and was inducted into the Country Music Hall of Fame in 2000.
Aside from his music career, Young also had an acting career, appearing in several films and television shows throughout the 1960s and 1970s. He also owned a music publishing company and was known for his support of new and upcoming country music artists.
Unfortunately, Young struggled with depression and alcoholism throughout his life, and he tragically took his own life in 1996 at the age of 64. Despite his personal struggles, he left behind a lasting legacy in the world of country music.
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Barry Brown
Barry Brown (April 19, 1951 San Jose-June 25, 1978 Silver Lake) also known as Donald Barry Brown or Baron was an American actor.
Barry Brown started his career in acting at a young age and quickly became a rising star in Hollywood in the 1970s. He appeared in several notable films including "The Bad News Bears", "Daisy Miller", and "The Ultimate Warrior". Brown was known for his naturalistic acting style and was highly respected by his peers in the industry.
Despite his promising career, Brown tragically died at the age of 27 when he was found dead in his apartment in Silver Lake due to a self-inflicted gunshot wound. His death came as a shock to many who had worked with him and who admired his talent. While his career was cut short, Brown's legacy as an actor has continued to live on, with his films still being watched and admired by audiences today.
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Jon Hall
Jon Hall (February 23, 1915 Fresno-December 13, 1979 North Hollywood) also known as Charles Hall Locher, Lloyd Crane, Charles Locher or Charles Felix Locher was an American actor and film director.
He began his acting career in the 1930s, starring in small roles in several films before he gained recognition for his role in the 1937 film, "The Hurricane". Hall went on to star in several other successful films including, "Kit Carson" (1940) and "The Invisible Man Returns" (1940).
In addition to his acting career, Jon Hall also directed several films, including "The Beachcomber" (1954) and "Hell Ship Mutiny" (1957). He also produced and starred in the television series, "Ramar of the Jungle" which aired from 1952 to 1954.
Despite his success in Hollywood, Hall struggled with personal issues including alcoholism, which eventually led to his death in 1979 at the age of 64. Despite his tragic end, Jon Hall's contributions to film and television continue to be remembered and celebrated today.
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Jay Stewart
Jay Stewart (September 6, 1918 Summitville-September 17, 1989 Los Angeles) also known as Jay Stewart Fix or Jay Fix was an American announcer and actor. His children are called Jamie Stewart and Julie Stewart.
Jay Stewart began his career as a radio announcer before transitioning to television. He is best known for his work as the announcer on popular game shows including "The Price is Right" and "Password". In addition to his announcing work, Stewart also had small roles in several television series and films. He was married to his wife, Joan, for over thirty years. In his later years, Stewart suffered from health issues and passed away at the age of 71.
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Karl Dane
Karl Dane (October 12, 1886 Copenhagen-April 14, 1934 Los Angeles) also known as Rasmus Karl Therkelsen Gottlieb, The Great Dane, Dane, Carl Dane or Rasmus Carl Therkelsen Gottlieb was an American comedian and actor. He had two children, Ingeborg Helene and Ejlert Carl.
Karl Dane began his career in the entertainment industry as a musician before transitioning to acting. He initially had small roles in films before landing his breakthrough role in the silent film, "The Big Parade" in 1925. He followed this up with another successful film, "The Crowd" in 1928. Despite his success, he was unable to transition to sound films due to his heavy Danish accent.
His struggles with finding work in the talkie era coupled with financial troubles led him to depression and alcoholism. Sadly, Karl Dane committed suicide in 1934 at the age of 47. Despite his troubles, he is remembered as a talented actor and comedian whose contributions to early Hollywood films are still celebrated today.
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Everett Sloane
Everett Sloane (October 1, 1909 Manhattan-August 6, 1965 Los Angeles) was an American actor, songwriter, theatre director, television director and voice actor.
Sloane was best known for his work in Orson Welles' films, including playing the title role in "Citizen Kane" and appearing in "The Lady from Shanghai" and "The Stranger". He also appeared in numerous other films throughout his career, such as "The Enforcer" and "Inherit the Wind". In addition to his acting career, Sloane also wrote songs for several Broadway productions and worked as a theatre and television director. He was also a prolific voice actor, lending his voice to numerous animated TV shows and films. Despite his success in the entertainment industry, Sloane struggled with depression and committed suicide at the age of 55.
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Hugh O'Connor
Hugh O'Connor (April 7, 1962 Rome-March 28, 1995 Pacific Palisades) also known as Hugh Edward Ralph O'Connor was an American actor. He had one child, Sean Carroll O'Connor.
Hugh O'Connor was best known for his role as Officer Lonnie Jamison on the popular television series "In the Heat of the Night". He appeared in all seven seasons of the show, which aired from 1988 to 1995. O'Connor also had roles in several movies, including the 1985 film "Bronco Billy" and the 1990 film "The Bedroom Window". In addition to his acting career, O'Connor was an advocate for mental health awareness and suicide prevention. He struggled with depression and tragically took his own life in March of 1995.
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Stanley Adams
Stanley Adams (April 7, 1915 New York City-April 27, 1977 Santa Monica) otherwise known as Stan Adams was an American actor and screenwriter.
He appeared in over 100 films and television shows throughout his career, including The Twilight Zone, The Andy Griffith Show, and The Fugitive. Adams also co-wrote the screenplay for the film, The Crimson Pirate, which starred Burt Lancaster. In addition to acting and writing, he was also a successful voice actor, lending his voice to characters in popular cartoons such as Spider-Man and Batman. Despite his success, Adams struggled with alcoholism throughout much of his life and ultimately died of a heart attack at the age of 62.
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Pedro Armendáriz
Pedro Armendáriz (May 9, 1912 Mexico City-June 18, 1963 Los Angeles) also known as Pedro Armendariz, Pedro Gregorio Armendáriz Hastings, Pete, The Clark Gable of Mexico or Pedro Gregorio Armendáriz was an American actor. He had two children, Pedro Armendáriz, Jr. and Carmen Armendáriz.
Armendáriz began his career in Mexican films in the 1940s before transitioning to Hollywood productions, where he worked alongside notable directors such as John Ford and Luis Buñuel. He is best known for his roles in "Fort Apache," "The Fugitive," and "From Russia with Love," where he played Bond's friend and ally, Kerim Bey. However, Armendáriz suffered from a terminal illness, and his final film, "The Conqueror," was shot in a location with high levels of radioactive fallout, which may have contributed to his illness and eventual suicide.
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Philip Loeb
Philip Loeb (March 28, 1891 Philadelphia-September 1, 1955 New York City) was an American actor.
He was best known for his role as Jake Goldberg in the popular television sitcom, "The Goldbergs," which aired from 1949 to 1955. Loeb was also a prominent member of the Actor's Equity Association and was involved in many labor disputes during the 1940s and 1950s. Unfortunately, Loeb's career and personal life were cut short when he was blacklisted during the Red Scare, which led to his suicide in 1955. Despite his tragic end, Loeb is remembered today as a talented actor and a fighter for workers' rights in the entertainment industry.
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Ed Flanders
Ed Flanders (December 29, 1934 Minneapolis-February 22, 1995 Denny, California) also known as Edward Paul Flanders or Edward Paul "Ed" Flanders was an American actor. He had four children, Evan Flanders, Suzanne Flanders, Ian Geer Flanders and Scott Flanders.
Flanders is best known for his role as Dr. Donald Westphall in the TV series "St. Elsewhere" which ran for six seasons from 1982 to 1988. He received four Primetime Emmy Award nominations for his portrayal of Westphall and won the award in 1983 and 1984.
Flanders began his acting career on stage, performing in off-Broadway productions such as "The Great White Hope" and "A Doll's House". He made his film debut in 1967 in the movie "The Boston Strangler". Throughout his career, Flanders appeared in numerous TV shows and films including "M*A*S*H", "The Exorcist III", and "Eischied".
In addition to his acting, Flanders was also a peace activist and protested against the Vietnam War. He was involved in several humanitarian causes and was a member of organizations such as Amnesty International and Doctors Without Borders.
Flanders' personal life was marked by struggles with depression and alcoholism. He died by suicide in 1995 at the age of 60.
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Richard Jeni
Richard Jeni (April 14, 1957 Brooklyn-March 10, 2007 Los Angeles) a.k.a. Richard John Colangelo, Richard Colangelo or Jeni, Richard was an American actor and comedian.
Jeni gained fame in the late 1980s and early 1990s for his stand-up comedy performances, which often tackled controversial subjects with sharp wit and incisive commentary. He appeared in numerous films and television shows throughout his career, including "The Mask", "An Alan Smithee Film: Burn Hollywood Burn", and "The Larry Sanders Show". Despite his success, Jeni struggled with depression and anxiety throughout his life, and tragically took his own life at the age of 49. He is remembered as a talented comedian whose fearless approach to comedy paved the way for a new generation of comedians.
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Albert Salmi
Albert Salmi (March 11, 1928 Brooklyn-April 22, 1990 Spokane) a.k.a. Alfred Salmi was an American actor. His children are called Jennifer Salmi, Catherine Ann Salmi and Lizanne Salmi.
Salmi began his acting career in the 1950s and appeared in various plays, films, and TV shows. He was particularly known for his tough-guy roles and was often cast as a villain. Some of his notable film credits include "The Brothers Karamazov," "The Unforgiven," and "Escape from the Planet of the Apes."
Salmi also made numerous appearances on TV shows such as "Gunsmoke," "The Twilight Zone," and "Star Trek," where he played the character of Lt. Orsino in the episode "The Devil in the Dark."
Aside from his acting work, Salmi was a decorated war veteran having served in the United States Army during the Korean War. He was awarded the Purple Heart for injuries he sustained during his service.
Sadly, Salmi's life was cut short when he tragically took his own life in 1990 at the age of 62. He is remembered as a talented and versatile actor who left an indelible mark on the entertainment industry.
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Lester Cuneo
Lester Cuneo (October 25, 1888 Chicago-November 1, 1925 Los Angeles) also known as Lester H. Cuneo or The Smiling Daredevil was an American actor.
He appeared in over 40 films between 1913 and 1925. Cuneo was best known for his work in silent films, where he often played the role of a dashing hero or a villain. In addition to his acting work, Cuneo was also an accomplished polo player and aviator. He served in World War I as a fighter pilot for the French Air Force. Cuneo's life was cut short when he died in a plane crash in 1925, while attempting to break the speed record from Los Angeles to New York. Despite his tragic death, Cuneo remains a notable figure in early Hollywood cinema.
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Bill Cody, Jr.
Bill Cody, Jr. (April 18, 1925 Los Angeles-August 11, 1989 Studio City) also known as Wild Bill Cody, Billy Jr. or William Joseph Cody, Jr. was an American actor.
He was the son of the famous Western movie star William "Buffalo Bill" Cody. Following in his father's footsteps, Bill Cody, Jr. began his acting career in Western films during the 1940s, starring in movies such as "The Strawberry Roan" and "Colorado Trail." He also appeared in numerous television series throughout the 1950s and 1960s, including "The Lone Ranger," "Annie Oakley," and "The Roy Rogers Show." In addition to acting, Cody was a skilled horseback rider and stuntman, often performing his own stunts in his films. He retired from acting in the early 1970s and lived out the rest of his life in Studio City.
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Richard Webb
Richard Webb (September 9, 1915 Bloomington-June 10, 1993 Van Nuys) also known as John Richard Webb was an American actor. He had two children, Richelle Webb and Patricia Webb.
Richard Webb began his career as a radio announcer and later moved on to television and film. He gained popularity for his role as Captain Midnight in the 1950s TV series of the same name. Webb also appeared in several other TV shows including, "Bat Masterson," "The Lone Ranger," and "Perry Mason."
In the film industry, he acted in several movies such as "The She-Creature," "The Last Time I Saw Paris," and "The Outlaw." Webb was known for his versatility and excellent work ethic.
Webb served in the United States Army Air Forces during World War II and was awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross for his service. After retiring from acting, Webb worked in the real estate industry. He passed away in 1993 at the age of 77 due to heart and lung failure.
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Rusty Hamer
Rusty Hamer (February 15, 1947 Tenafly-January 18, 1990 De Ridder) was an American actor.
He began his career as a child actor in the 1950s, starring in various television programs such as The Jackie Gleason Show and The Phil Silvers Show. Hamer gained widespread recognition for his role as Rusty Williams in the hit television series The Danny Thomas Show, which aired from 1953 to 1964. After the show ended, he continued to act in television and film, but struggled to replicate the success he had as a child star. Hamer battled with depression and substance abuse throughout his life, which ultimately led to his tragic suicide in 1990 at the age of 42. Despite his struggles, he is remembered as a talented actor who left a lasting mark on the entertainment industry.
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Will Rogers, Jr.
Will Rogers, Jr. (October 20, 1911 New York City-July 9, 1993 Tubac) also known as William Vann Rogers, Bill or William Vann "Bill" Rogers was an American writer, politician and actor.
He was the eldest son of legendary humorist Will Rogers and his wife Betty Blake. Will Jr. followed in his father's footsteps and became a prominent writer, producing hundreds of articles over the course of his career.
In addition to his writing, Will Jr. also pursued a career in politics. He served as a U.S. Congressman representing California's 23rd district from 1943 to 1944. Later, he ran unsuccessfully for Senate in 1946.
Will Jr. also had a successful acting career, appearing in numerous films and television shows throughout the 1950s and 60s. Some of his notable roles include appearances in John Ford's "The Wings of Eagles" and the television series "The Lone Ranger."
Throughout his life, Will Jr. remained committed to preserving the legacy of his father. He served as the founding president of the Will Rogers Memorial Foundation and worked tirelessly to promote the values of kindness, honesty, and humor that his father embodied.
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Keith Andes
Keith Andes (July 12, 1920 Ocean City-November 11, 2005 Newhall) also known as John Charles Andes was an American actor. He had two children, Matt Andes and Mark Andes.
Keith Andes began his acting career on stage before making his way into Hollywood in the late 1940s. He was known for his work in films such as "The Farmer's Daughter" (1947), "Clash by Night" (1952), and "Away All Boats" (1956). Andes also appeared in numerous television shows throughout the 1950s and 1960s including "The Twilight Zone," "Perry Mason," and "The Wild Wild West."
In addition to his acting career, Andes was a World War II veteran and served in the United States Army Air Forces as a pilot. After his military service, he took up flying as a hobby and eventually became a commercial pilot.
Andes continued to work in film and television up until his death in 2005 at the age of 85.
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Lindsay Crosby
Lindsay Crosby (January 5, 1938 Los Angeles-December 11, 1989 Calabasas) also known as Lindsay Harry Crosby, Lindsey Crosby, The Crosby Brothers, Lin Crosby or Lindsay Harry Chip Crosby, Sr. was an American singer and actor. He had five children, L. Chip Crosby Jr., David Crosby, Sean Crosby, Adam C. Crosby and Kevin Crosby.
Lindsay Crosby was the youngest son of legendary crooner Bing Crosby, and followed in his father's footsteps by embarking on a singing career of his own. He started performing with his brothers at a young age, and the group became known as "The Crosby Brothers" or "The Crosby Boys". They toured extensively and even had their own television program for a short time.
In addition to singing, Lindsay Crosby also pursued acting, appearing in several films and television shows throughout the 1960s and 1970s. Some of his notable credits include "The Big Circus" (1959), "The Night of the Quarter Moon" (1959), and "The Wild Wild West" (1966).
Despite his early success, Lindsay Crosby struggled with alcoholism and personal issues throughout his life. He died in 1989 at the age of 51 from a self-inflicted gunshot wound.
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William Ball
William Ball (April 28, 1931 Chicago-July 30, 1991 Los Angeles) otherwise known as William Gormaly Ball was an American theatre director and actor.
He is best known for founding the American Conservatory Theater (ACT) in San Francisco in 1965. Ball served as the artistic director of ACT until 1986, and during his tenure, he produced and directed several notable productions, including Edward Albee's "Tiny Alice," Tom Stoppard's "Travesties," and the world premiere of Sam Shepard's "Buried Child."
In addition to directing and acting, Ball was also a prolific writer, authoring several books on theater, including "A Sense of Direction: Some Observations on the Art of Directing," "Theatre: The Rediscovery of Style and Other Writings," and "A Necessary Theatre." He was a highly influential figure in American theater, his legacy continued through the work of the American Conservatory Theater, which remains one of the country's premier theater companies today.
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Benjamin Hendrickson
Benjamin Hendrickson (August 26, 1950 Huntington-July 3, 2006 Huntington) was an American actor.
He was best known for his role as Hal Munson on the soap opera "As the World Turns," a role he played from 1985 until his death in 2006. Hendrickson was also a stage actor and appeared in a number of productions on and off Broadway. He won a Tony Award in 1980 for his role in the play "Joe Turner's Come and Gone." In addition to his work in theater and television, Hendrickson also appeared in several films, including "Regarding Henry" and "Manhunter." Hendrickson was known for his intense and powerful performances, and he was widely regarded as one of the most talented actors of his generation.
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Don "Red" Barry
Don "Red" Barry (January 11, 1912 Houston-July 17, 1980 North Hollywood) also known as Donald Barry De Acosta, Don Barry, Donald 'Red' Barry, Donald M. Barry, Donald Red Barry, Donald Barry, Don Red Barry, Donald Berry, Donald "Red" Barry de Acosta, Don'Red'Barry, Milton Poimboeuf, "Red" Barry or "Red" was an American actor, writer and film producer.
Don "Red" Barry was born on January 11, 1912, in Houston, Texas, as Donald Barry De Acosta. He started his career as a vaudeville actor and later moved to Hollywood in the 1930s. He is best known for his roles in several Western films and serials such as "The Adventures of Red Ryder". Barry also acted in a variety of other genres including drama, crime, and science fiction.
Apart from acting, Barry was also a prolific writer and producer. He wrote and produced several films including "The Female Animal" and "The Big Chase". He also appeared on television shows including "The Lone Ranger" and "Gunsmoke".
During World War II, Barry served as a bomber pilot in the United States Army Air Forces. He received the Distinguished Flying Cross for his service. After the war, he continued his acting and producing career until his death on July 17, 1980, in North Hollywood, California.
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Judd Holdren
Judd Holdren (October 16, 1915 Villisca-March 11, 1974 Los Angeles) also known as Judd Holden, Jud Holdren, Jud Holdrin or Judd Clifton Holdren was an American actor, bookkeeper, model and insurance broker.
He began his career as a model and worked as an insurance broker before transitioning into acting. Holdren's career spanned from the 1930s to the 1960s and he appeared in over 125 films and television series. He was best known for his roles in B-movies, particularly science fiction films such as "King of the Rocket Men" and "Radar Men from the Moon." In addition to acting, Holdren was a skilled bookkeeper and often used his skills to manage the finances of small production companies he worked for. He passed away in 1974 at the age of 58 due to a heart attack.
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