American movie stars died in 1986
Here are 50 famous actors from United States of America died in 1986:
Sterling Hayden
Sterling Hayden (March 26, 1916 Montclair-May 23, 1986 Sausalito) a.k.a. Sterling Relyea Walter, The Beautiful Blond Viking God, The Most Beautiful Man in the Movies, Sterling Walter Hayden, John Hamilton, Lieutenant John Hamilton or Lt. Hamilton was an American actor, sailor, author and model. His children are called Andrew Hayden, Gretchen Hayden, Dana Hayden, Christian Hayden, Matthew Hayden and David Hayden.
Hayden began his acting career in the late 1940s, starring in films such as "The Asphalt Jungle," "Johnny Guitar," and "Dr. Strangelove or: How I Learned to Stop Worrying and Love the Bomb." However, he is perhaps best known for his role as Captain McCluskey in "The Godfather."
In addition to his acting career, Hayden was also an accomplished sailor and wrote several books on the subject. He even bought and lived on his own sailing vessel, the Wanderer, for several years. During World War II, Hayden also served in the Office of Strategic Services, the predecessor to the Central Intelligence Agency.
Hayden was married five times and had six children. He struggled with alcoholism throughout his life and ultimately succumbed to cancer in 1986 at the age of 70.
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Albert Reed, Jr.
Albert Reed, Jr. (January 28, 1910 Texas-May 31, 1986 Bishop) was an American actor.
He appeared in over 40 films and TV shows throughout his career, including "The Strange Love of Martha Ivers" and "The Asphalt Jungle." Reed was also a regular performer on a variety of early television series, such as "The George Burns and Gracie Allen Show" and "The Adventures of Ozzie and Harriet." In addition to acting, he was also a talented dancer and appeared in several Broadway musicals, including "Flying Colors" and "Lew Leslie's Blackbirds of 1939." Later in life, Reed became a respected acting teacher, and his students included the likes of James Dean and Marlon Brando.
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Benny Rubin
Benny Rubin (February 2, 1899 Boston-July 15, 1986 Los Angeles) a.k.a. Ben W. Rubin or Benny Ruben was an American comedian, actor and screenwriter.
Rubin began his career in vaudeville before transitioning to film in the 1920s. He appeared in over 200 films throughout his career, often playing comedic roles. Rubin also worked as a screenwriter for several films, including "The Three Stooges in Orbit" and "The Nutty Professor". In addition to his work in film, Rubin was also a popular radio personality, hosting his own show "The Benny Rubin Show" in the 1940s. Despite his success, Rubin never achieved the same level of fame as some of his contemporaries, such as Charlie Chaplin and Buster Keaton. However, he remained a beloved figure in the entertainment industry until his death in 1986.
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Ronald Long
Ronald Long (January 30, 1911 London-October 23, 1986 Burbank) also known as Roland Long was an American actor.
He began his career as a child actor in silent films and went on to become a prominent character actor in the Golden Age of Hollywood. Long appeared in over 150 films and television shows, including "Meet John Doe," "The Bishop's Wife," "Around the World in 80 Days," and "The Adventures of Robin Hood." He was also a prolific voice actor, lending his voice to several animated shows such as "Johnny Quest" and "The Smurfs." Long was known for his versatility and ability to play a wide range of roles, from comedic to dramatic. In addition to his acting career, he was an accomplished photographer and took portraits of many of his co-stars and friends in Hollywood.
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Don MacLaughlin
Don MacLaughlin (November 24, 1906 Webster-May 28, 1986) was an American actor.
He is best known for his work on the soap operas "The Guiding Light" and "As the World Turns." MacLaughlin began his acting career on stage and later moved on to radio and television. He portrayed various characters in different soap operas throughout his career, including Martin Peyton in "Peyton Place" and Dr. David Malone in "All My Children." MacLaughlin was also an accomplished voice-over artist and worked on several commercials and narrations. Additionally, he was a radio sports announcer and covered the Brooklyn Dodgers and New York Giants. MacLaughlin received a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame for his contributions to television.
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Yakima Canutt
Yakima Canutt (November 29, 1895 Colfax-May 24, 1986 North Hollywood) a.k.a. Yak Canutt, Enos Edward Canutt, Yakima Cannutt, Yakina Canutt, 'Yakima' Canutt, Yakima Canute, Yak or Yakima Cannut was an American stunt performer, actor, film director, film producer, rodeo performer and writer. His children are called Tap Canutt, Joe Canutt and Audrea Elaine Canutt.
Canutt was known for his impressive work in over 300 films, particularly as a stunt double for film legends such as Clark Gable, John Wayne, and Gene Autry. He was a pioneer in developing many new stunt techniques and safety precautions, earning him the nickname "the master of movie stunts." Canutt also directed and produced several films throughout his career. In addition to his film work, he was a well-respected rodeo performer and won numerous championships in events such as steer wrestling and bronc riding. Canutt was inducted into the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum's Hall of Fame in 1975 for his contributions to the film and rodeo industries.
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Barry Robins
Barry Robins (January 12, 1945 Brooklyn-April 1, 1986 Los Angeles) was an American actor.
Robins was best known for his roles in several popular TV series and movies such as "The Rockford Files", "Starsky and Hutch", "Happy Days", and "The Love Boat". He began his career as a child actor in the 1950s, appearing on Broadway in productions such as "The Most Happy Fella" and "The Sound of Music". As a young adult, Robins made the transition to film and television and quickly established himself as a versatile actor with a natural talent for comedy. Despite his promising career, Robins tragically died of a heart attack at the age of 41 while filming an episode of "Crazy Like a Fox" in Los Angeles. He is remembered as a talented performer who brought joy and laughter to audiences throughout his career.
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Hugh Franklin
Hugh Franklin (August 24, 1916 Muskogee-September 26, 1986) a.k.a. Hugh Hale Franklin was an American actor. His children are called Josephine Franklin, Bion Franklin and Maria Franklin.
Hugh Franklin began his acting career in the theater, where he appeared in productions such as "Light Up the Sky" and "The Matchmaker." He later transitioned to film and television, making appearances in popular shows like "The Twilight Zone" and "The Defenders." However, Franklin is perhaps best known for his role as Dr. Charles Tyler on the soap opera "All My Children," which he played from 1970 until his death in 1986. Besides his acting career, Franklin was also a writer and published several books, including "Kansas Summer" and "Tales of Adventure and Medical Life."
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James Cagney
James Cagney (July 17, 1899 New York City-March 30, 1986 Stanfordville) also known as James Francis Cagney, Jr., James Francis Cagney, The Professional Againster, Jimmy or Cellar-Door Cagney was an American actor and dancer. He had two children, Cathleen "Casey" Cagney and James Cagney Jr.
Cagney started his career as a vaudeville song-and-dance man before moving to Broadway and later to Hollywood. He rose to fame in the 1930s with a string of successful films, including "Public Enemy," "Angels with Dirty Faces," and "Yankee Doodle Dandy," a biopic in which he portrayed songwriter George M. Cohan. Cagney was known for his intense screen presence, as well as his energetic dance moves and tough-guy persona. In addition to his acting career, he was also a patriotic activist and received the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 1984. Despite his success, he remained a private person throughout his life.
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Dean Reed
Dean Reed (September 22, 1938 Denver-June 13, 1986 Zeuthen) a.k.a. Dean Cyril Reed, Mr. Simpatia or Red Elvis was an American singer, musician, writer, actor and songwriter. He had three children, Alexander Reed, Ramona Reed and Natasha Reed.
Reed was known for his contributions to Latin American music and his support of socialist movements. He gained popularity in the 1960s with Spanish-language versions of American pop songs and later released his own songs in Spanish and English. In the 1970s, he moved to East Germany, where he continued to perform and became a citizen. He also appeared in several films, including the East German musical film "The Singing Ringing Tree". Despite his socialist beliefs, Reed's music was popular even in the United States, where he had a large fan base. Reed's death in 1986 in East Germany is still shrouded in mystery, although it is widely believed to be suicide.
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Frank Nelson
Frank Nelson (May 6, 1911 Colorado Springs-September 12, 1986 Hollywood) also known as Frank Brandon Nelson was an American comedian, actor, voice actor and radio personality. His children are called Douglas Nelson and Bonnie Esther.
Nelson began his career as a radio personality, working for several radio stations including NBC and CBS. He gained fame for his frequent appearances on The Jack Benny Program where he played a recurring character known for his catchphrase "Yeeeeesssss?".
In addition to his radio work, Nelson appeared in dozens of films and television shows throughout his career, often playing the role of a clerk or salesman. Some of his notable film appearances include The Apartment, The Love Bug, and Cannonball Run II. He also lent his voice to several animated films and shows, such as The Flintstones and The Jetsons.
Nelson was known for his distinctive voice and comedic timing, and his career spanned over four decades. He passed away in 1986 at the age of 75.
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Adolph Caesar
Adolph Caesar (December 5, 1933 Harlem-March 6, 1986 Los Angeles) was an American theatre director, actor, voice actor, dancer and choreographer.
He is best known for his Academy Award-nominated role as Sergeant Waters in the film "A Soldier's Story" and for his role as Old Mister in the film "The Color Purple." Caesar began his career as a dancer and choreographer before transitioning to acting and directing in theatre. He appeared in numerous Broadway productions, including "Ain't Supposed to Die a Natural Death" and "The First Breeze of Summer." Caesar was also a prolific voice actor, lending his voice to animated shows such as "The Adventures of Fat Albert and the Cosby Kids" and "Inspector Gadget." He passed away in 1986 at the age of 52 from a heart attack.
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Alvin Childress
Alvin Childress (September 15, 1907 Meridian-April 19, 1986 Inglewood) was an American actor. He had one child, Jean Rosa Childress.
Alvin Childress was best known for his role as Amos Jones on the television series "Amos 'n' Andy." He also appeared in numerous films, including "Carmen Jones" and "The Buccaneers." In addition to his acting career, Childress was a talented musician and played several instruments. He began his career in show business as a member of the 'Harlem Seesaw Six,' a jazz band that toured the United States and Europe. Later in life, he became an advocate for civil rights and was involved in the fight for equality and justice for African Americans. Despite facing racism and discrimination throughout his career, Alvin Childress remained dedicated to his craft and made important contributions to the entertainment industry.
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Lloyd Haynes
Lloyd Haynes (September 19, 1934 South Bend-December 31, 1986 Coronado) also known as Samuel Lloyd Haynes was an American actor and screenwriter.
Haynes was best known for his roles in the television shows, "Room 222" and "The Greatest Show on Earth". Before he became an actor, he served in the United States Navy for four years. After his stint in the Navy, he moved to Los Angeles to pursue a career in acting. In addition to his acting career, he was also a talented screenwriter, having written scripts for various television series. Haynes was also an advocate for civil rights and was involved in various social and political causes throughout his life. He passed away at the age of 52 due to lung cancer.
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Lorenzo Tucker
Lorenzo Tucker (June 27, 1907 Philadelphia-September 19, 1986 Hollywood) also known as Black Valentino was an American actor.
Tucker began his career in the 1920s as a vaudeville performer and later transitioned to film. He starred in a number of popular films during the 1930s, often playing romantic lead roles. However, he was often typecast as a "black Romeo," reflecting the limited roles available to Black actors during that time period. Tucker was a trailblazer for Black actors in Hollywood and advocated for more diverse and positive roles for Black performers. In addition to his film work, Tucker also performed on Broadway and made numerous appearances on radio and television.
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Leif Erickson
Leif Erickson (October 27, 1911 Alameda-January 29, 1986 Pensacola) also known as William Wycliff Anderson, William Y. Wycliffe Anderson, Glen Erickson, Glenn Erickson, Lief Erickson, Leif Erikson, Glenn Erikson, Erickson or William Wycliffe Anderson was an American actor, singer, musician and soldier. He had two children, Susan Irene Erickson and William Leif Erickson.
Leif Erickson began his acting career in the 1930s, appearing in over 60 films throughout his career. He was often cast in Westerns and war films, and is perhaps best known for his role as the title character in the TV series "The High Chaparral" from 1967 to 1971. Erickson also appeared in numerous television shows throughout the 1950s and 1960s, including "Perry Mason," "Gunsmoke," and "Rawhide."
During World War II, Erickson served in the United States Navy and was stationed in the Pacific Theater. He was awarded the Purple Heart for injuries sustained during the Battle of Okinawa.
In addition to his acting career, Erickson was also a talented musician and singer, and recorded several albums throughout the 1950s and 1960s. He continued to perform live shows and record music up until his death in 1986.
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Dar Robinson
Dar Robinson (March 26, 1947 Los Angeles-November 21, 1986 Page) also known as Dar Allen Robinson was an American actor and stunt performer. His children are called Shawn Robinson, Troy Robinson and Landon Robinson.
Dar Robinson began his career as a stunt performer in the 1970s and quickly gained a reputation as one of the best in the business. He worked on a number of high-profile films, including "The Towering Inferno" and "The Blues Brothers."
In addition to his work as a stunt performer, Dar Robinson also appeared in a number of films and TV shows, often as a stuntman or in small roles. He was known for his intense dedication to his craft and his willingness to take on dangerous stunts that many other performers refused to attempt.
Tragically, Dar Robinson died in a stunt accident in 1986 at the age of 39. Despite his untimely passing, his legacy as a pioneering stunt performer and actor continues to inspire others in the industry.
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Michael Spilotro
Michael Spilotro (September 12, 1944 Chicago-June 14, 1986) was an American mafioso and actor.
He was born in Chicago to Italian immigrants, and grew up with his younger brother Anthony, who also went on to become a member of organized crime. Michael became known for his involvement in illegal activities such as loan sharking, extortion, and gambling, and was associated with the Chicago Outfit.
In addition to his life of crime, Spilotro also had a passion for acting, and appeared in several films including Casino and The St. Valentine's Day Massacre. He was known for his tough guy persona and his ability to turn on the charm, which made him a favorite among filmmakers.
Spilotro's life came to a tragic end when he and his brother were brutally murdered in 1986. Their deaths were later dramatized in the film Casino, with actor Joe Pesci portraying Michael Spilotro.
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Roger C. Carmel
Roger C. Carmel (September 27, 1932 Brooklyn-November 11, 1986 Hollywood) also known as Roger Charles Carmel or Roger Carmel was an American actor, comedian and voice actor.
He started his acting career in the late 1950s, appearing in various TV shows such as "The Phil Silvers Show" and "The Patty Duke Show". He also had a recurring role in the soap opera "The Doctors and the Nurses" in the early 1960s.
Carmel is perhaps best known for his role as Harry Mudd in the original "Star Trek" series. He played the character in two episodes, "Mudd's Women" and "I, Mudd". He reprised the role in the animated series and even provided the voice for the character in a "Star Trek" video game.
Carmel was also a prolific voice actor, lending his voice to various cartoons such as "The Smurfs", "The Transformers", and "The Jetsons". He even voiced Ben Grimm/The Thing in the 1967 animated series "Fantastic Four".
Unfortunately, Carmel passed away due to a heart attack at the age of 54. However, his legacy as an iconic character actor and voice artist continues to live on.
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Robert Alda
Robert Alda (February 26, 1914 New York City-May 3, 1986 Los Angeles) a.k.a. Alfonso Giuseppe Giovanni Roberto D'Abruzzo or Alphonso Giuseppe Giovanni Roberto D'Abruzzo was an American actor and singer. He had two children, Alan Alda and Antony Alda.
Robert Alda was born to Italian immigrants and his father an opera singer. He grew up performing in vaudeville shows and later transitioned into theater and film. He originated the role of Sky Masterson in the Broadway production of "Guys and Dolls," and later went on to star in several movies such as "Rhapsody in Blue" and "The Beast with Five Fingers." In addition to acting, Alda was also a successful singer, with hits such as "Mam'selle" and "That's the Reason Why." Throughout his career, he was known for his suave demeanor and charismatic stage presence.
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Charles Starrett
Charles Starrett (March 28, 1903 Athol-March 22, 1986 Borrego Springs) was an American actor.
He is best known for his role as the Durango Kid in a series of 65 western movies between 1940 and 1952. Prior to this, he appeared in various films and starred in the television series "The Adventures of the Durango Kid" from 1952 to 1953. In addition to his acting career, Starrett was also a champion tennis player and competed in several national tournaments. He retired from acting in 1952 to focus on his family and other business ventures but continued to stay involved in the film industry as a producer. He passed away in Borrego Springs, California in 1986 at the age of 82.
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Martin Gabel
Martin Gabel (June 19, 1912 Philadelphia-May 22, 1986 New York City) a.k.a. Martin Gable was an American actor, film director and film producer. He had one child, Peter Gabel.
Martin Gabel was known for his work in the film noir genre, as well as his appearances on Broadway. He appeared on stage in productions such as "Death of a Salesman" and "The Visit," and was nominated for a Tony Award for his performance in "Big Fish, Little Fish." Gabel also directed and produced plays, including the off-Broadway production of "The Connection." In addition to his work in theater, Gabel appeared in several films, including "Marnie" and "The Thief." Later in life, he became a well-known game show panelist, appearing on shows such as "What's My Line?" and "To Tell the Truth." Gabel was also involved in civil rights activism, including advocating for desegregation in the entertainment industry.
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Howard Da Silva
Howard Da Silva (May 4, 1909 Cleveland-February 16, 1986 Ossining) also known as Howard Silverblatt, Howard DaSylva, Howard da Silva or Howard De Silva was an American actor, voice actor and theatre director.
Da Silva started his career in the theatre industry, making his Broadway debut in 1928. He went on to appear in numerous Broadway productions, some of which he also directed. In 1940, he played the role of Jud Fry in the original production of "Oklahoma!", which launched him to stardom.
Da Silva's film career began in the 1950s with roles in movies such as "The Blue Dahlia" and "A Gal Named Joe". He also did voice-over work for several Disney movies, including the voice of the villainous Maleficent in "Sleeping Beauty".
During the 1950s and 60s, Da Silva was blacklisted due to his alleged involvement in communist activities. However, he continued to work in the theatre industry and made a comeback on Broadway in the 1970s, earning a Tony Award nomination for his role in "The Great White Hope".
Da Silva passed away in 1986 from lymphoma. He left behind a legacy as a talented actor and director in the theatre and film industry.
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Jeffrey Mylett
Jeffrey Mylett (June 8, 1949 North Canton-May 7, 1986 Los Angeles) a.k.a. Jeff Mylett or Jeffrey Martin Mylett was an American actor and songwriter.
Mylett was born in North Canton, Ohio in 1949. He began his career in the entertainment industry as a musician, writing and performing his own songs. He eventually transitioned into acting and appeared in a number of films and television shows throughout the 1970s and 1980s. Some of his notable roles include appearances in the movies "The Long Riders" (1980) and "Silver Bullet" (1985) as well as the TV series "T.J. Hooker."
Tragically, Mylett passed away in 1986 at the age of 36 due to complications related to AIDS. He is remembered as a talented and versatile performer who made notable contributions to both the music and film industries.
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Murray Hamilton
Murray Hamilton (March 24, 1923 Washington-September 1, 1986 Washington) was an American actor. His child is called David Honeycutt Hamilton.
Murray Hamilton was known for his roles in various films such as "The Hustler," "The Graduate," and "Jaws." He also had a successful career on stage, appearing in several Broadway productions throughout the 1950s and 1960s. Hamilton began his acting career in the late 1940s, and went on to work in over 70 films and television shows. He was known for his ability to play a wide range of roles, from sympathetic characters to villains. In addition to his work as an actor, Hamilton was also a veteran of World War II, having served in the United States Army. He passed away at the age of 63 from lung cancer.
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Paul Stewart
Paul Stewart (March 13, 1908 Manhattan-February 17, 1986 Los Angeles) also known as Paul Sternberg or Paul Steward was an American actor and television director.
Stewart began his acting career on stage in the 1930s and made his film debut in the 1936 movie "The Rescuer". He went on to appear in over 70 films throughout his career, including "The Big Sleep" (1946), "In Cold Blood" (1967), and "The Towering Inferno" (1974).
In addition to acting, Stewart also worked as a television director, directing episodes of popular TV series like "The Twilight Zone", "Alfred Hitchcock Presents", and "The Man from U.N.C.L.E."
Stewart was also known for his distinctive voice and was often called upon to provide voice over narration for documentaries and commercials.
He was married to Broadway actress and singer Elaine Stritch from 1952 to 1953 and later married actress and writer Shelley Winters, with whom he had one child. Stewart passed away in Los Angeles in 1986 at the age of 77.
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Herschel Bernardi
Herschel Bernardi (October 30, 1923 New York City-May 9, 1986 Los Angeles) also known as Hershel Bernardi, Hesch, Harold Bernardi or Wonderboy was an American actor and voice actor. He had one child, Michael Bernardi.
Herschel Bernardi began his career in show business as a child performer in the Yiddish theater. He later transitioned to television and film, and is best known for his roles in "Peter Gunn," "The George Burns and Gracie Allen Show," and "Arnie," for which he received an Emmy nomination. Bernardi was also a prolific voice actor, lending his voice to numerous animated shows and movies, most notably as the voice of Charlie the Tuna in the Starkist commercials. Bernardi was a dedicated activist and union leader, serving as president of the American Federation of Television and Radio Artists from 1979 until his death in 1986 from a heart attack at the age of 62.
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Robert Drivas
Robert Drivas (November 21, 1938 Chicago-June 29, 1986 New York City) a.k.a. Robert Choromokos, Beauty, Bobby or Pretty Boy was an American actor and theatre director.
Drivas studied at the Goodman Theatre School, where he was mentored by theatre director, Mike Nichols. He began his acting career in the 1960s with roles in several Off-Broadway productions. Drivas is best known for his role in the 1965 film "The Family Jewels" and for his role as Desdemona in the 1965 film "The Fool Killer". He also appeared in the television series "Kojak" and "Baretta". In addition to acting, Drivas was also a theatre director, and directed several productions in New York City during the 1970s and 1980s. Unfortunately, Drivas passed away at the young age of 47 due to an AIDS-related illness.
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Ref Sanchez
Ref Sanchez (November 27, 2014 Arizona-November 27, 1986) was an American photographer and actor.
Sanchez was best known for his work as a photographer during the 1920s and 1930s, capturing the essence of New York City's bohemian and artistic community. He also worked as an actor, with appearances in films such as "Little Caesar" and "Scarface". Sanchez was a key figure in the development of the Photo League, a group of socially conscious photographers who focused on documenting the lives of working-class Americans. His photographs have been featured in numerous exhibitions and are held in the collections of major museums around the world. Sanchez's legacy continues to influence generations of photographers and artists today.
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Gordon MacRae
Gordon MacRae (March 12, 1921 East Orange-January 24, 1986 William Jennings Bryan House) a.k.a. Albert Gordon MacRae was an American singer and actor. He had five children, Meredith MacRae, Heather MacRae, Robert Bruce McRae, Gar MacRae and Amanda MacRae.
MacRae was born to parents who were both accomplished musicians, and he started singing and performing at a young age. His big break came in 1943 when he auditioned for the wartime radio show "Camel Caravan" and was chosen as one of the regular performers. This led to a contract with Warner Bros. and a successful career in Hollywood, starring in films such as "Oklahoma!" and "Carousel."
In addition to his film career, MacRae was a popular singer, recording many albums and appearing on various TV shows. He also had a successful run on Broadway, starring in the musicals "Guys and Dolls" and "The Student Prince."
MacRae's personal life was not without its challenges. He struggled with alcoholism for much of his life and was arrested several times for driving under the influence. He also had a tumultuous relationship with his first wife, Sheila MacRae, which ended in divorce in 1967.
Despite these challenges, MacRae remained a beloved and talented performer until his death in 1986 from pneumonia.
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Rudy Vallée
Rudy Vallée (July 28, 1901 Island Pond-July 3, 1986 North Hollywood) a.k.a. Rudy Valle, Rudy Vallee, Lieutenant Rudy Vallee U.S.C.G.R or Hubert Prior Vallée was an American singer, actor, bandleader, musician, radio personality and songwriter.
He was one of the first modern pop stars of the 1920s and 1930s, known for his distinctive tenor voice, good looks, and charm. Vallée became famous for his crooning style and was known for his hits such as "As Time Goes By," "My Time Is Your Time," and "The Stein Song." He began his career in music as a saxophonist and clarinetist, playing with various bands before forming his own band, "Rudy Vallée and the Connecticut Yankees."
Vallée was a pioneer of radio broadcasting and was the first performer to have his own nationwide radio show, "The Fleischmann's Yeast Hour," in 1929. He was also a featured actor in several films, including "The Vagabond Lover" and "The Palm Beach Story." During World War II, Vallée served in the United States Coast Guard Reserve and was awarded the Legion of Merit for his service.
In addition to his music career, Vallée was an early investor and proponent of television, and he hosted his own variety show, "The Rudy Vallée Show," in the early days of the medium. He continued to perform throughout his life, even appearing on Broadway in the 1960s. Rudy Vallée was one of the most influential American entertainers of the 20th century and his contributions to music and broadcasting are still celebrated today.
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Spec O'Donnell
Spec O'Donnell (April 9, 1911 Fresno-October 14, 1986 Woodland Hills) a.k.a. Walter O'Donnell, Walter 'Speck' O'Donnell, Speck O'Donnell, Walter 'Spec' O'Donnell, 'Spec' O'Donnell or Spec was an American actor.
He started his acting career in the 1930s as a contract player for Warner Bros. He appeared in numerous films throughout the 1930s and 1940s, often playing tough-guy roles. Some of his notable film credits include "Angels with Dirty Faces," "They Made Me a Criminal," and "The Roaring Twenties." In the 1950s, he transitioned to television and appeared in numerous popular shows, including "The Lone Ranger," "The Adventures of Superman," and "Perry Mason." He continued to act well into the 1970s, with one of his last roles being in the film "The Wild Bunch." O'Donnell was known for his distinctive voice and rugged good looks, and he was a popular character actor for many years.
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Victor Bozeman
Victor Bozeman (August 11, 1929 Texas-November 26, 1986) was an American actor.
Bozeman is best known for his role as Delbert Tibbs in the television show "In the Heat of the Night," which aired from 1988 to 1995. He also appeared in several movies including "The Color Purple" and "Places in the Heart." Bozeman was a graduate of Prairie View A&M University and served in the U.S. Army during the Korean War. He was also involved in civil rights activism and worked alongside Martin Luther King Jr. and other prominent leaders during the Civil Rights Movement of the 1960s. Bozeman passed away in 1986 at the age of 57 due to heart disease.
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Desi Arnaz
Desi Arnaz (March 2, 1917 Santiago de Cuba-December 2, 1986 Del Mar) a.k.a. Desiderio Arnaz, Desiderio Alberto Arnaz ye de Acha the Third, Desiderio Alberto Arnaz y de Acha III, Desiderio Alberto Arnaz y de Acha, III or Desi Arnaz, Sr. was an American comedian, singer, musician, television producer, actor, television director and film producer. His children are called Lucie Arnaz, Desi Arnaz, Jr. and Madeline Jane Dee.
Born in Santiago de Cuba, Arnaz moved to the United States with his family when he was a child. He started his entertainment career as a musician and bandleader, and went on to become one of the most successful producers in television history. He co-starred in the classic sitcom "I Love Lucy" with his wife Lucille Ball, and together they formed Desilu Productions, which created hit TV shows such as "The Untouchables" and "Star Trek." Arnaz was also renowned for his talents as a drummer and introduced the conga line to American audiences. He was inducted into the Television Hall of Fame in 1986, the same year he passed away.
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Cary Grant
Cary Grant (January 18, 1904 Horfield-November 29, 1986 Davenport) also known as Archibald Alexander Leach, Mr. Cary Grant, Archibald Leach or Archie Leach was an American actor. He had one child, Jennifer Grant.
Cary Grant was one of Hollywood's top leading men during the 1940s and 1950s, known for his charm, wit, and good looks. He appeared in over 70 films throughout his career, including classics like North by Northwest, The Philadelphia Story, and Charade. Grant was also known for his distinctive voice and impeccable comic timing.
Prior to his acting career, Grant had a difficult upbringing in Bristol, England, and eventually joined a traveling vaudeville troupe. He later made his way to America and landed his first film role in 1932. Grant's personal life was often the subject of media attention, including his marriages to actresses Virginia Cherrill, Barbara Hutton, and Dyan Cannon.
Later in life, Grant took a step back from acting and became a dedicated philanthropist, supporting causes such as cancer research and children's charities. He was honored with numerous awards for his contributions, including an honorary Oscar in 1970. Despite his success, Grant remained humble and gracious, earning him the respect and admiration of fans and colleagues alike.
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John Zaremba
John Zaremba (October 22, 1908 Chicago-December 15, 1986 Newport Beach) also known as John Zarimba was an American actor and journalist.
He began his career in journalism as a radio newscaster, but eventually transitioned into acting, making his film debut in 1942's "Eagle Squadron." He went on to have a successful career in film and television, appearing in over 75 movies and TV shows throughout the 1940s, 50s, and 60s. Some of his most notable roles include appearances in "Lost Continent," "20 Million Miles to Earth," and "The Time Tunnel." Zaremba was also a prolific voice actor, lending his voice to numerous characters in several popular animated TV series, such as "Superman" and "The Flintstones."
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Steve Tracy
Steve Tracy (October 3, 1952 Canton-November 27, 1986 Tampa) was an American actor.
He is best known for his role as Percival Dalton in the popular TV series "Little House on the Prairie." Born and raised in Canton, Ohio, Tracy developed a passion for acting early on in his life. He attended Kent State University before moving to California to pursue his acting career.
Tracy appeared in several TV series and films throughout the 1980s, including "The Fall Guy," "The A-Team," and "Hunter." He also starred in the horror film "The Creature Wasn't Nice" in 1983.
Tracy's life was tragically cut short when he passed away from complications related to HIV/AIDS in 1986. He was one of the first celebrities to publicly disclose his HIV-positive status and brought attention to the disease at a time when little was known about it.
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Scatman Crothers
Scatman Crothers (May 23, 1910 Terre Haute-November 22, 1986 Van Nuys) also known as Benjamin Sherman Crothers, Benjamin Sherman "Scatman" Crothers, Scatman, Scat Man, Benjamin Crothers, 'Scatman' Crothers, Scat-Man Crothers, Sherman 'Scat Man' Crothers, Benjamin 'Scatman' Crothers, Sherman Crothers or Scat Man Crothers was an American singer, actor, musician, dancer, composer, comedian, guitarist, songwriter and voice actor. His child is called Donna Crothers.
Scatman Crothers first rose to fame as a jazz musician, starting out as a drummer before transitioning to singing and playing the guitar. He performed with several bands throughout the 1930s and 1940s before landing his first film role in 1953. He went on to appear in a number of films and television shows throughout his long career, including notable roles in The Twilight Zone, The Aristocats, and One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest. Crothers was also a prolific voice actor, lending his distinctive voice to animated shows such as Hong Kong Phooey and The Transformers. Despite his success in the entertainment industry, Crothers was also a civil rights activist who fought against racial inequality in Hollywood. He passed away in 1986 at the age of 76.
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Keenan Wynn
Keenan Wynn (July 27, 1916 New York City-October 14, 1986 Los Angeles) otherwise known as Francis Xavier Aloysius James Jeremiah Keenan Wynn was an American actor and character actor. He had five children, Tracy Keenan Wynn, Hilda Wynn, Ned Wynn, Emily Wynn and Edwynna Wynn.
Keenan Wynn was the son of famous comedian Ed Wynn, and he began his entertainment career as a teenager, working as a stagehand for his father's shows. He made his acting debut in the 1934 film "This Side of Heaven" and went on to appear in over 200 films and television shows during his career. Some of his notable film credits include "Kiss Me Kate," "The Great Race," "Dr. Strangelove," and "The Absent-Minded Professor." Wynn was also a talented voice actor, and he provided the voice for several Disney characters, including the Mad Hatter in "Alice in Wonderland" and the voice of the Winter Warlock in "Santa Claus is Comin' to Town."
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Broderick Crawford
Broderick Crawford (December 9, 1911 Philadelphia-April 26, 1986 Rancho Mirage) also known as William Broderick Crawford or Brod was an American actor. His children are called Kelly G. Crawford, Kim Crawford and Lorella De Luca.
Crawford began his acting career on Broadway, where he gained recognition for his performances in productions such as "Of Mice and Men" and "The Male Animal." He made his film debut in 1942's "Larceny, Inc." and went on to appear in over 100 films throughout his career. Some of his notable roles include his Academy Award-winning performance in "All the King's Men" (1949) and his portrayal of Dan Matthews on the TV series "Highway Patrol" (1955-1959). Crawford was also known for his rugged, tough-guy persona and his distinctive voice.
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Ted Knight
Ted Knight (December 7, 1923 Terryville, Connecticut-August 26, 1986 Glendale) also known as Tadeusz Wladyslaw Konopka, Tadeus Wladyslaw Konopka, Edward Knight or Ted Konopka was an American actor and soldier. He had three children, Ted Knight Jr., Elyse Knight and Eric Knight.
Knight began his career as a radio announcer before transitioning to television and film. He is best known for his comedic roles, particularly as the pompous news anchor Ted Baxter in the sitcom "The Mary Tyler Moore Show" and its spinoff "Lou Grant." Knight won two Emmy Awards for his portrayal of Ted Baxter. He also appeared in other TV shows such as "Too Close for Comfort" and "The Love Boat," and movies such as "Caddyshack" and "The Last Married Couple in America." Knight served in the United States Army during World War II and earned a Purple Heart for his service. He passed away in 1986 due to complications from colorectal cancer.
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Harvey Stephens
Harvey Stephens (August 21, 1901 Los Angeles-December 22, 1986 Laguna Hills) a.k.a. Harvey Stevens or Harvey Steens was an American actor.
He began his acting career in 1923 with a small role in the film "The Love Piker." He went on to appear in over 70 films throughout the 1920s and 1930s, often playing supporting roles or villains. Some of his notable roles include "The Patent Leather Kid" (1927), "Sins of the Fathers" (1928), and "Heroes of the Flames" (1931).
In addition to his film work, Stephens also appeared on stage in a variety of productions. He was known for his powerful voice and often sang in his performances. In the 1930s, he became involved in radio broadcasting and worked as an announcer and actor for several programs.
During World War II, Stephens served as a fighter pilot with the United States Army Air Forces. He received multiple awards for his service, including the Distinguished Flying Cross and the Air Medal.
After the war, Stephens returned to acting and continued to work in films and television until the 1970s. He also became active in Republican politics and was involved with several conservative organizations.
Stephens passed away in 1986 at the age of 85. He is remembered for his contributions to the entertainment industry and his service to his country.
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Reed De Rouen
Reed De Rouen (June 10, 1917 Green Bay-June 11, 1986) also known as Reed de Rouen, Reed R. de Rouen or Reid DeRouen was an American actor and screenwriter.
De Rouen was born in Green Bay, Wisconsin in 1917. He began his career as an actor appearing in small roles in films such as "Gone with the Wind" (1939) and "The Maltese Falcon" (1941). He then made a transition into screenwriting, penning scripts for notable films such as "The Day the Earth Stood Still" (1951) and "Blackboard Jungle" (1955).
De Rouen was also active in television, writing for shows such as "The Twilight Zone" and "The Outer Limits". He was nominated for two Emmy awards for his work on the television series "The Fugitive" in the 1960s.
In addition to his work in film and television, De Rouen was also a novelist, publishing several books including "Too Many Women" (1952) and "Twilight for Macbeth" (1975).
De Rouen passed away in 1986, the day after his 69th birthday.
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Forrest Tucker
Forrest Tucker (February 12, 1919 Plainfield-October 25, 1986 Los Angeles) also known as Forrest Meredith Tucker or Tuck was an American actor. His children are called Brooke Tucker, Forrest Sean Tucker and Cindy Tucker.
Tucker rose to prominence in the 1940s and 1950s for his roles in Western and adventure films. He appeared in over 100 films, including "Sands of Iwo Jima," "The Quiet Gun," and "Return to Treasure Island". In the 1960s, he transitioned to television, starring in the popular series "F Troop" as well as "The Ghost Busters" and "The Beverly Hillbillies". In addition to his acting career, Tucker served in the US Army during World War II and was awarded two Purple Hearts for his service. He was also an accomplished horseman and owned a ranch in California. Tucker passed away from lung cancer at the age of 67 while working on the television series "Gunsmoke".
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Donald Briggs
Donald Briggs (January 28, 1911 Chicago-February 3, 1986 Woodland Hills) also known as Don Briggs or Donald P. Briggs was an American actor.
Briggs began his career in the entertainment industry as a radio announcer and later transitioned to acting. He appeared in over 70 films and television shows from the 1940s until his retirement in the 1970s. Some of his notable film credits include "The Lady from Shanghai" (1947), "Mystery Street" (1950), and "The Bad Seed" (1956). He also appeared in popular television shows such as "The Twilight Zone," "Perry Mason," and "The Dick Van Dyke Show." In addition to his acting career, Briggs was also a member of the board of directors of the Screen Actors Guild from 1963 to 1965. He passed away in Woodland Hills, California at the age of 75.
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Buddy Baer
Buddy Baer (June 11, 1915 Denver-July 18, 1986 Martinez) also known as Jacob Henry Baer, Buddy Bear or Jacob Henry "Buddy" Baer was an American actor and professional boxer.
He was the younger brother of former heavyweight boxing champion Max Baer and the uncle of actor Max Baer Jr. Buddy Baer started his professional boxing career in 1934 as a heavyweight fighter and had a successful career, winning 49 of his 79 fights, with 33 of those wins by knockout. He also appeared in several films including the classic white whale hunting film Moby Dick (1956) and the western film The Big Country (1958). Later in his career, he also worked as a boxing referee. Baer was inducted into the World Boxing Hall of Fame in 1988.
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Paul Frees
Paul Frees (June 22, 1920 Chicago-November 2, 1986 Tiburon) also known as Solomon Hersh Frees, Man of a Thousand Voices, Buddy Green, Paul H. Frees, Solomon Hirsch Freeze or The man with the voice of 1,000 was an American voice actor, actor, author, songwriter, screenwriter, composer and vaudeville performer.
He was born and raised in Chicago but moved to California in the 1940s to pursue a career in entertainment. Frees' distinct voice can be heard in a variety of animated films and television shows, including "The Rocky and Bullwinkle Show," "The Adventures of Rocky and Bullwinkle and Friends," and "The Pink Panther Show." He also provided the voice for characters in several classic Disney films, such as the Ghost Host in "The Haunted Mansion" and the narrator of "Disneyland's Pirates of the Caribbean" ride. Additionally, he appeared in live-action films such as "The War of the Worlds" and "The Thing from Another World." In addition to his work in entertainment, Frees also served in the military during World War II and was awarded the Bronze Star for his service.
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Tim McIntire
Tim McIntire (July 19, 1944 Los Angeles-April 15, 1986 Los Angeles) a.k.a. Timothy John McIntire was an American actor, film score composer, musician, voice actor, songwriter, composer and singer.
He was best known for his roles in films such as "American Hot Wax" and "The Choirboys", as well as for providing the voice of the character Cohaagen in the science fiction film "Total Recall". McIntire's musical talents are also notable, as he composed film scores and appeared on albums with artists such as John Denver and The Nitty Gritty Dirt Band. Prior to his acting career, McIntire attended the University of California, Berkeley, where he was a member of the Phi Delta Theta fraternity. Despite experiencing considerable success in both acting and music, McIntire struggled with substance abuse issues throughout his life and died of a heart attack at the age of 41.
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Sonny Terry
Sonny Terry (October 24, 1911 Greensboro-March 11, 1986 Mineola) a.k.a. Terry, Sonny, Saunders Teddell, Saunders 'Sonny' Terry, Saunders Sonny Terry, Saunders Terrell, Sonny Terry & Friends or Terry, Sonny & Friends was an American film score composer, actor and musician.
He was primarily a harmonica player but also sang and played guitar and drums. Terry was born blind in one eye and lost the other at a young age due to a fight. He began his professional music career in the 1930s, playing mostly with Blind Boy Fuller. Terry's unique style of playing the harmonica, characterized by his whoops and hollers, became his signature sound. He went on to record with other notable musicians such as Brownie McGhee and Woody Guthrie. Terry was inducted into the Blues Hall of Fame in 2015.
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Stephen Stucker
Stephen Stucker (July 2, 1947 Des Moines-April 13, 1986 Hollywood) a.k.a. Steven Dale Stucker was an American actor.
He was best known for his role as Johnny Henshaw-Jacobs in the hit comedy film "Airplane!" and its sequel "Airplane II: The Sequel." Stucker was a trained actor and comedian, having honed his skills at The Second City in Chicago. In addition to his work in "Airplane!", he also made appearances in other films such as "The Kentucky Fried Movie" and "Up in Smoke." Despite his success in the film industry, Stucker's life was cut tragically short due to complications from AIDS, which he had been battling for several years. He was 38 years old at the time of his death.
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