American movie stars died in 1988
Here are 50 famous actors from United States of America died in 1988:
John Holmes
John Holmes (August 8, 1944 Ashville-March 13, 1988 Los Angeles) also known as John Curtis Estes, Russell Blue, John Duval, Big Jon Fallus, John Helms, Jack Hims, Big John Holmes, John 'The Wadd' Holmes, John 'Wadd' Holmes, John C. Holmes, John Curtis Holmes, Johnny Holmes, Mr. John Holmes, John C. Holms, John Rey, Long John Wodd, Johnny Wadd, John Estes, Big John Fallus, Bigg John, Big John, John Sacre, Bernard Emil Weik II, Long John Wadd, Johnny B. Wadd, Johnny the Wad, Wonderland, Long John Silver, The Sultan of Smut, The King of Porn, Johnny "Cash" Holmes, John Homes, John Holmes III, John Holmes/Johnny Wadd, John Holmes aka Johnny Wadd, John or Holmes was an American pornographic film actor and actor.
He gained fame in the 1970s for his roles in adult films, particularly the "Johnny Wadd" series. Holmes was known for his well-endowed physique, which earned him the nickname "The Wadd." However, he struggled with drug addiction and legal troubles throughout his career, and was implicated in the infamous Wonderland Murders in 1981. In 1988, Holmes died of AIDS-related complications at the age of 43. Despite his controversial career and personal life, Holmes remains a significant figure in the history of the adult film industry.
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Kim Milford
Kim Milford (February 7, 1951 Glen Ridge-June 16, 1988 Chicago) a.k.a. Richard Kim Milford or Richard Milford was an American actor, singer-songwriter and singer.
Kim Milford began his career in entertainment as a theater actor, appearing in various stage productions throughout the 1970s. In 1977, he made his film debut in the science-fiction movie, "Damnation Alley", and gained recognition for his portrayal of the lead character in the stage adaptation of "The Rocky Horror Show". Milford was also a talented singer and songwriter, and released several albums during his career.
In addition to his work in entertainment, Milford was involved in political activism, particularly campaigning for nuclear disarmament. He was a member of the SANE organization and served as its national youth director in the mid-1970s.
Milford passed away at the age of 37 from complications related to a rare blood disease. Despite his relatively short career, his work in theater, film and music has left a lasting impact on many fans and artists alike.
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Roy Orbison
Roy Orbison (April 23, 1936 Vernon-December 6, 1988 Hendersonville) also known as Roy Orbsion, Roy Orbinson, Roy Orbisson, Ray Orbison, Roy Kelton Orbison, Orbison, Roy, The Big O, The Voice or the Caruso of Rock was an American singer, musician, songwriter, guitarist, actor and composer. He had three children, Wesley Orbison, Roy Kelton Orbison and Alexander Orbison.
Orbison was best known for his distinctive voice and emotionally intense ballads, including hits such as "Oh, Pretty Woman," "Crying," and "Only the Lonely." He began his music career in the late 1950s and became popular in the early 1960s, with his fame lasting through the 1980s. In addition to his solo work, he was a member of the supergroup, The Traveling Wilburys, alongside Bob Dylan, George Harrison, Tom Petty, and Jeff Lynne. Orbison was inducted into both the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and the Nashville Songwriters Hall of Fame, and his influence on music has been cited by numerous artists, including Bruce Springsteen, Chris Isaak, and k.d. lang.
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Chet Baker
Chet Baker (December 23, 1929 Yale-May 13, 1988 Amsterdam) otherwise known as Baker Chet, Chey Baker, Chet Baker & Art Pepper, Chesney Henry Baker Jr., Baker, Chet, Chesney Henry Baker, Chesney Henry "Chet" Baker or The Chet Baker Quartette was an American singer, trumpeter, film score composer and actor. He had four children, Chesney Aftab Baker, Missy Baker, Dean Baker and Paul Baker.
Baker was born in Yale, Oklahoma and began playing the trumpet at a young age. He joined the army in the early 1950s and played in the Army band. After his discharge, he moved to Los Angeles, where he quickly gained a reputation as a talented jazz musician. Baker played with some of the biggest names in jazz, including Charlie Parker, Gerry Mulligan, and Stan Getz.
Baker was known for his smooth, lyrical playing style and his ability to convey emotion through his music. He also had a distinctive singing voice, which he used to great effect on many of his recordings. In addition to his musical career, Baker acted in several films, including "Sons of Katie Elder" and "All the Fine Young Cannibals."
Despite his musical success, Baker struggled with drug addiction throughout his life. He was arrested several times for drug-related offenses and spent time in prison. In 1988, Baker died after falling from a hotel room window in Amsterdam. His death was ruled an accidental overdose, though some have speculated that it may have been suicide.
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John Houseman
John Houseman (September 22, 1902 Bucharest-October 31, 1988 Malibu) also known as Jacques Haussmann or Jack was an American actor, film producer, television producer, screenwriter, theatrical producer, theatre director, theater manager, radio producer and radio writer. He had two children, John Michael and Charles Sebastian.
Houseman began his career as a stage actor and director in the 1920s and worked closely with Orson Welles' groundbreaking Mercury Theatre. He appeared in several of Welles' productions, including the infamous radio broadcast of "War of the Worlds" in 1938. In the 1940s, Houseman began producing films, earning an Academy Award for Best Picture as the producer of "The Paper Chase" in 1974.
He was also a prolific television producer and writer, producing the acclaimed anthology series "The Twilight Zone" and co-creating the popular 1980s detective series "Magnum, P.I." In addition to his work in entertainment, Houseman was a well-respected educator, serving as the head of the drama division at the Juilliard School and co-founding the drama department at the University of Southern California.
Houseman was married twice and had two children. He passed away in 1988 at the age of 86.
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John Carradine
John Carradine (February 5, 1906 Greenwich Village-November 27, 1988 Milan) also known as Richmond Reed Carradine, Peter Richmond, John Peter Richmond, The Bard of Boulevard or The Voice was an American actor and voice actor. His children are called David Carradine, Robert Carradine, Bruce Carradine, Keith Carradine and Christopher Carradine.
John Carradine was born in Greenwich Village, New York City to William Carradine, a journalist, and his wife, Genevieve. He started his acting career on Broadway before transitioning to films where he became known for his versatility and range. Carradine appeared in over 200 films and television shows throughout his career, including roles in iconic films such as "The Grapes of Wrath" and "The Ten Commandments".
Carradine was known for his distinctive voice and often lent his talents to voice acting, including work in Disney's "The Jungle Book" and "The Aristocats". He was also a skilled painter and enjoyed creating art throughout his life.
Carradine was married four times and was the patriarch of the Carradine acting family. He was inducted into the Hollywood Walk of Fame in 1960 for his contributions to the entertainment industry. Carradine passed away in Milan, Italy at the age of 82.
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Brook Benton
Brook Benton (September 19, 1931 Lugoff-April 9, 1988 Queens) a.k.a. Brook Brenton, Brook Benten, Benjamin Franklin Peay or Benton, Brook was an American songwriter, singer, actor and musician.
He began his career as a gospel singer in the 1950s before transitioning to rhythm and blues music. Benton had a string of successful hits in the 1960s, including "It's Just a Matter of Time," "Endlessly," and "Rainy Night in Georgia," which remains his most popular song.
Aside from his music career, Benton also dabbled in acting, appearing in several films and television shows throughout the 1960s and 1970s. He was also a prolific songwriter, penning hits for other artists such as Nat King Cole and Clyde McPhatter.
Benton's smooth, soulful voice and high-quality songwriting solidified his place in the history of rhythm and blues music, and he remains a beloved figure among fans of the genre. He was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1986, just two years before his untimely death at the age of 56 from complications related to spinal meningitis.
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Hal Ashby
Hal Ashby (September 2, 1929 Ogden-December 27, 1988 Malibu) a.k.a. William Hal Ashby or Wm. Hal Ashby was an American film director, film editor, actor and film producer.
He is often associated with the "New Hollywood" wave of filmmaking that emerged in the late 1960s and early 1970s. Ashby directed some classic films such as "Harold and Maude," "The Last Detail," "Being There," and "Shampoo." He won an Academy Award for Best Editing for “In the Heat of the Night” (1967). Ashby was known for his ability to bring out nuanced and touching performances from his actors, and for tackling sociopolitical issues of the day in his films. His career was cut short by his untimely death at the age of 59 due to pancreatic cancer.
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Joshua Logan
Joshua Logan (October 5, 1908 Texarkana-July 12, 1988 New York City) a.k.a. Joshua Lockwood Logan III or Joshua Lockwood Logan was an American film director, writer, screenwriter, theatre director and actor. His children are called Tom Logan and Susan Logan.
Logan graduated from Princeton University and began his career as an actor and stage manager. He made his directorial debut with the Broadway production of "Carry Nation" in 1932. Logan directed several successful Broadway plays, including "South Pacific", "Annie Get Your Gun", and "Fiddler on the Roof". He also directed several films, such as "Picnic" (1955), "Sayonara" (1957), and "Camelot" (1967), which earned him an Academy Award nomination for Best Director.
Aside from his career as a director and writer, Logan was also a member of the American Theatre Hall of Fame and a recipient of several Tony Awards. He was married twice, first to actress Barbara O'Neil, and later to Nedda Harrigan, daughter of famed Broadway producer and playwright Edward Harrigan.
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Edward Pawley
Edward Pawley (March 16, 1901 Kansas City-January 27, 1988 Charlottesville) also known as Edward Joel Pawley, Ed Pawley or Edward Joel Stone Pawley was an American actor. He had one child, Martin H. Pawley.
Pawley began his career in acting through radio dramas in the 1920s, and became best known for his roles in crime and detective shows. He played the title character in the radio program Big Town, and also had a recurring role as Officer O'Hara in the popular show The Adventures of Superman.
Pawley also appeared in over 50 films throughout his career, including roles in The Texas Chain Saw Massacre and The Postman Always Rings Twice. He also had a successful career on Broadway, appearing in productions such as The Great Gatsby and The Royal Family.
In addition to his acting career, Pawley was a passionate advocate for civil rights and became involved in the civil rights movement in the 1960s. He also served as president of the Screen Actors Guild from 1940 to 1942.
Pawley retired from acting in the early 1960s and moved to Virginia, where he lived until his death in 1988 at the age of 86.
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Sammy Davis, Sr.
Sammy Davis, Sr. (December 12, 1900 Wilmington-May 21, 1988 Beverly Hills) also known as Samuel Davis, Samuel George "Sammy" Davis, Sr., Will Mastin Trio, Will Maston Trio, Samuel George Davis, Sr. or The Will Maston Trio was an American actor and dancer. He had one child, Sammy Davis, Jr..
Sammy Davis, Sr. was born in Wilmington, North Carolina, and began his career in show business as a vaudeville performer. He was part of the Will Mastin Trio, which included his father and lifelong friend, Will Mastin. The trio toured the country during the 1920s and 1930s, becoming increasingly popular and gaining praise for their musical and dancing skills.
In addition to his work with the trio, Sammy Davis, Sr. also appeared in several films, including 'Sweet and Lowdown' and 'Anna Lucasta.' He was also a well-respected choreographer in Hollywood, working on films such as 'Babes in Arms' and 'Strike Up the Band.'
Sammy Davis, Sr. married Elvera Sanchez in 1923, and the couple had one child, Sammy Davis, Jr. The younger Davis followed in his father's footsteps, becoming a renowned performer in his own right. Sammy Davis, Sr. continued to perform and work in show business until his death in 1988 at the age of 87.
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Joie Chitwood
Joie Chitwood (April 14, 1912 Denison-January 3, 1988 Tampa) was an American race car driver, actor and businessperson.
He was known for his stunt driving performances and became popular as a stuntman in Hollywood. Chitwood appeared in around a dozen Hollywood films and TV series, including serving as a stunt driver for Elvis Presley. He also founded his own stunt driving show, the Joie Chitwood Thrill Show, which traveled across the United States and Canada. After retiring from stunt driving, Chitwood became involved in motorsports and founded the Chitwood Racing Team, which fielded cars in the Indianapolis 500 and other major races. He was inducted into the Motorsports Hall of Fame of America in 2001.
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Parker Fennelly
Parker Fennelly (October 22, 1891 Northeast Harbor-January 22, 1988 Peekskill) a.k.a. Parker W. Fennelly was an American actor and comedian.
He is best known for his work as a member of the cast of the long-running radio show "Vic and Sade." Fennelly began his acting career in the theater before transitioning to film and television. His film credits include "State Fair" and "The Blackboard Jungle," and he also appeared on numerous television shows including "The Beverly Hillbillies" and "The Twilight Zone." Fennelly was also a prolific voice actor, providing voices for several animated series including "The Mighty Hercules" and "Underdog." He continued to work in the entertainment industry well into his 90s.
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Richard S. Castellano
Richard S. Castellano (September 4, 1933 The Bronx-December 10, 1988 North Bergen) also known as Richard Castellano, Richard Salvatore Castellano or Richie was an American actor. He had one child, Margaret E. Castellano.
Castellano is best known for his role as Peter Clemenza in the famous crime movie "The Godfather" (1972), which he got after he convinced the director Francis Ford Coppola that he was right for the part. He was asked to gained weight and grow a beard, which he did to embody the character perfectly. He also reprised his role as Clemenza in "The Godfather Part II" (1974) in a flashback scene. Castellano's other notable film appearances include "Lovers and Other Strangers" (1970), "Lepke" (1975), and "The Super Cops" (1974). In addition to his work in film, Castellano was also a veteran actor in the theater community, having appeared in multiple plays on Broadway. Castellano passed away in 1988 due to a heart attack.
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Leonard Frey
Leonard Frey (September 4, 1938 Brooklyn-August 24, 1988 New York City) also known as Frey, Leonard was an American actor.
He was best known for his role as Motel Kamzoil in the film adaptation of the musical Fiddler on the Roof, for which he received an Academy Award nomination. After a successful career in theater, he transitioned to television and film, appearing in popular shows such as Kojak and The Bionic Woman. Frey was openly gay and became an advocate for LGBTQ+ rights. He even portrayed gay characters in his work, including a role in the groundbreaking play The Boys in the Band. Sadly, Frey passed away at the age of 49 from complications related to AIDS.
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Joe Besser
Joe Besser (August 12, 1907 St. Louis-March 1, 1988 North Hollywood) also known as Joseph Besser or Joe was an American comedian, actor, musician and vaudeville performer.
He is best known for his work with The Three Stooges, joining the group in 1956 and continuing on until 1958. However, his career extended far beyond his time with the Stooges, including appearances in TV series such as The Joey Bishop Show and The Abbott and Costello Show, and films such as the Abbott and Costello film, Abbott and Costello Meet the Invisible Man. Besser was also a talented voice actor, lending his voice to numerous animated series, including The Smurfs and The Jetsons. He died in 1988 at the age of 80.
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Brent Collins
Brent Collins (October 31, 1941 Plainville-January 6, 1988 New York City) was an American actor.
He is best known for his role as Detective Fred O'Connor in the television series "Kojak". Born in Plainville, Kansas, Collins started his career in the entertainment industry as a stage performer. He made his television debut in the 1960s and eventually transitioned to film in the 1970s. Apart from his work on "Kojak", Collins appeared in many other television series and movies, including "Charlie's Angels", "Starsky & Hutch", and "Halloween II". He also had a recurring role in the soap opera "The Edge of Night". Collins was married to actress Lee Bryant, and together they had one child. He passed away from lung cancer in 1988 at the age of 46.
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Billy Daniels
Billy Daniels (September 12, 1915 Jacksonville-October 7, 1988 Los Angeles) a.k.a. William Boone Daniels, William Daniels or Billy Daniel was an American singer and actor. He had seven children, Yvonne Daniels, Baroness Von Czenkow, William B. Daniels II, Bruce Daniels, Jack Daniels, Andrea Grefelt and Dominique Daniels.
Billy Daniels began his career as a club singer in the 1930s and 1940s, performing in various venues across the United States. He gained national attention when he appeared at the Apollo Theater in New York City in 1945, and soon after, he signed a recording contract with Columbia Records. He had several hits throughout the 1940s and 1950s, including "That Old Black Magic" and "All or Nothing at All."
In addition to his successful singing career, Daniels also acted in films and television shows. He appeared in movies such as "The Glenn Miller Story" and "Lovin' You," and he had guest roles on television shows like "The Ed Sullivan Show" and "The Tonight Show."
Despite facing racial discrimination throughout his career, Daniels continued to perform and even toured internationally. He was inducted into the Casino Legends Hall of Fame in 2009 for his contributions to the entertainment industry.
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Dennis Day
Dennis Day (May 21, 1916 The Bronx-June 22, 1988 Los Angeles) otherwise known as Eugene Dennis McNulty, Day, Dennis or Owen Patrick Eugene McNulty was an American singer, actor, radio personality and comedian.
He first gained fame as a member of the Jack Benny Program's "Jell-O Girls and Boys" ensemble in the 1930s. He then went on to have a successful solo singing career, recording popular songs such as "Shanghai" and "Clancy Lowered the Boom." In the 1950s, he starred in his own TV show, The Dennis Day Show, and also appeared in several films, including My Wild Irish Rose and Johnny Appleseed. In his later years, he returned to his roots in radio and became a popular host on various stations. Despite his success, Day was known for his humble demeanor and down-to-earth personality. He will always be remembered as one of the most beloved entertainers of his time.
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John Sylvester White
John Sylvester White (October 31, 1919 Philadelphia-September 11, 1988 Waikiki) was an American actor.
He started his acting career in the 1950s, with his first appearance being in the TV series "Robert Montgomery Presents". He had a prolific career on both stage and screen, appearing in several TV shows, films, and Broadway productions. Some of his notable works include the TV series "Miami Vice", "The A-Team", and "The Twilight Zone". He also had a recurring role in the popular sitcom "Welcome Back, Kotter" as Mr. Woodman. White was nominated for a Tony Award for his performance in the Broadway play "The Rope Dancers". He was married twice and had three children. In 1988, he passed away in his vacation home in Waikiki due to congestive heart failure at the age of 68.
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Mike Cohen
Mike Cohen (January 16, 1917-March 19, 1988 Philippines) also known as Michael Cohen was an American actor.
Cohen was born in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania and began his acting career in New York City. He appeared in numerous Broadway productions throughout the 1940s and 1950s. He also appeared in several television shows in the 1950s and early 1960s.
In 1965, Cohen moved to the Philippines and became a popular character actor in Filipino films. He appeared in over 150 Filipino films throughout his career, often portraying villains or authority figures.
Despite his success in the Philippines, Cohen remained connected to the American entertainment industry. He occasionally appeared in American films, including "Apocalypse Now" (1979) and "The Twilight People" (1972).
Cohen died of cancer in Manila at the age of 71.
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Trinidad Silva
Trinidad Silva (January 30, 1950 Mission-July 31, 1988 Whittier) also known as Trinidad Silva, Jr. or Trinidad Silva Jr. was an American actor.
He was best known for his distinctive appearance and unique role as the gang member named Rembrandt in the 1979 cult classic movie The Warriors. Trinidad spent much of his childhood and adolescence living in the predominantly Mexican-American neighborhood of East Los Angeles. Before his career in movies and television, Trinidad was an activist and community organizer. In addition to acting, he also wrote and directed for the stage. Tragically, his career was cut short when he was accidentally struck and killed by a drunk driver while on location during the filming of the movie Colors. Despite his untimely death, Trinidad's legacy and contributions to the entertainment world continue to be remembered and celebrated by his fans and colleagues alike.
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Vernon Washington
Vernon Washington (August 10, 1927 Hartford-June 7, 1988 Los Angeles) also known as Vernon Alfred Washington, Samuel Vernon Washington or Samuel "Vernon" Washington was an American actor.
Washington was born in Hartford, Connecticut, to parents who had immigrated from Jamaica. He grew up in Harlem, New York, and had an interest in acting from a young age. Washington began his career on stage and eventually made the transition to film and television in the 1950s. He appeared in a number of popular TV shows such as "The Twilight Zone," "The Streets of San Francisco," and "The Rockford Files."
Washington is perhaps best known for his role as Fletcher in the 1973 film "The Mack," which is considered a cult classic in the blaxploitation genre. He also appeared in other films such as "Road to Morocco" (1942), "The Outfit" (1973), and "The Last American Hero" (1973).
Besides acting, Washington was also involved in civil rights activism and was a member of the NAACP. He was known to be a private person and rarely gave interviews. Washington passed away in 1988 at the age of 60 due to complications from cardiovascular disease. Despite his relatively short career, he left a lasting impact on the entertainment industry and is remembered as a talented and versatile actor.
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Ralph Meeker
Ralph Meeker (November 21, 1920 Minneapolis-August 5, 1988 Woodland Hills) otherwise known as Ralph Rathgeber was an American actor.
He is best known for his roles in films such as "Kiss Me Deadly", "Paths of Glory", and "The Dirty Dozen". Meeker began his acting career in the mid-1940s, and his breakthrough role came in 1953 with "The Naked Spur", which earned him critical acclaim. Throughout the 1960s, he continued to work in film and television, often playing tough-guy roles. Meeker also had success on Broadway, and received a Tony Award nomination for his role in the play "A View from the Bridge" in 1956. Meeker remained active in the entertainment industry until his death in 1988, and is remembered as a talented and versatile performer.
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Duane Jones
Duane Jones (February 2, 1937 New York City-July 22, 1988 Mineola) otherwise known as Duane L. Jones or Dr. Duane Jones was an American actor, teacher and theatre director.
He is best known for his leading role as Ben in the 1968 horror film "Night of the Living Dead," which was considered groundbreaking for its portrayal of an African-American hero in a time when racial tensions were high in the United States. In addition to his acting work, Jones also taught at the American Academy of Dramatic Arts in New York and was a founding member of the Magis Theatre Company. He received a doctorate in English literature from the University of Massachusetts and taught literature and cinema at several universities. Jones died of heart failure at the age of 51. Despite his short career, he had a significant impact on the film industry and has become an icon in horror cinema.
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Gabriel Dell
Gabriel Dell (October 8, 1919 Brooklyn-July 3, 1988 North Hollywood) a.k.a. Gabriel Del Vecchio, Garbiel Dell, Gabe Dell, G. Joseph Dell, Gabriel Marcel Dell Vecchio or Gabe was an American actor and screenwriter. He had two children, Beau Del Vecchio and Gabriel Dell Jr..
Dell began his acting career as a child artist on Broadway and he later transitioned to films in 1939. He appeared in over 60 movies throughout his career, including notable roles in "Dead End" (1937), "Here Comes Mr. Jordan" (1941), and "Zombies on Broadway" (1945). Dell was also a founding member of the famous comedy troupe "The Dead End Kids" that eventually evolved into "The East Side Kids" and "The Bowery Boys". He remained an active member of the Bowery Boys until the series ended in 1958. In addition to acting, Dell also wrote several screenplays, including the films "Crazy Over Horses" (1951) and "Hot Shots" (1956). Dell passed away in 1988 at the age of 68 due to leukemia.
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Don Haggerty
Don Haggerty (July 3, 1914 Poughkeepsie-August 19, 1988 Cocoa Beach) was an American actor, soldier and athlete. He had one child, Dan Haggerty.
Don Haggerty began his career in Hollywood in the late 1940s, appearing in films such as "The Picture of Dorian Gray" and "Impact". He also became a regular on television, with roles in shows like "The Lone Ranger" and "The Adventures of Wild Bill Hickok". During World War II, Haggerty served in the U.S. Army as a paratrooper in the 82nd Airborne Division.
In addition to his acting career, Haggerty was also a skilled athlete. He played professional football for the New York Giants and the Los Angeles Bulldogs, but a knee injury forced him to retire from the sport.
Throughout his career, Haggerty appeared in over 100 films and television shows, including "Gunsmoke", "Perry Mason", and "Bonanza". He continued to act until his death in 1988.
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Andrew Duggan
Andrew Duggan (December 28, 1923 Franklin-May 15, 1988 Hollywood) a.k.a. Andy Duggan was an American actor. He had three children, Richard Duggan, Nancy Duggan and Melissa Duggan.
Throughout his career, Andrew Duggan appeared in over 70 films and television shows, including "The Twilight Zone," "Bonanza," and "Gunsmoke." He was also known for his starring role in the television series "12 O'Clock High." In addition to his acting career, he served in the United States Army during World War II and was awarded both the Purple Heart and Bronze Star for his service. Duggan passed away from throat cancer in 1988 at the age of 64.
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George J. Folsey
George J. Folsey (July 2, 1898 Brooklyn-November 1, 1988 Santa Monica) also known as George Folsey, George J. Falsey, George Joseph Folsey or George J. Folsey, A.S.C. was an American cinematographer and actor. His child is called George Folsey, Jr..
Folsey started his career in the early 1920s, working as a still photographer in silent films. He transitioned to cinematography in the late 1920s when sound films became more popular. Folsey worked on numerous Hollywood films in the following decades, including "The Cocoanuts" (1929), "The Wizard of Oz" (1948), and "Seven Brides for Seven Brothers" (1954).
Folsey won an Academy Award for Best Cinematography for the film "An American in Paris" in 1951. Throughout his career, he worked with many famous actors and directors, including Fred Astaire, Gene Kelly, and Vincente Minnelli. Folsey was also an active member of the American Society of Cinematographers (ASC) and served as its president from 1968 to 1969.
Aside from his work in the film industry, Folsey also acted in a few films as well. He appeared in "The Wild Party" (1929) and "Swing High, Swing Low" (1937), among others. His son, George Folsey Jr., also worked in the film industry as an assistant director and producer.
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Ken Murray
Ken Murray (July 14, 1903 New York City-October 12, 1988 Burbank) a.k.a. Kenneth Doncourt or Kenneth Abner Doncourt was an American author, actor, film director, film producer, screenwriter, film editor, cinematographer and singer-songwriter. He had four children, Pamela Ann Murray, Cort Murray, Kenneth Doncourt Jr and Janie Murray.
Ken Murray started his career as a performer in vaudeville and later transitioned to film acting, with his first notable role being in the film "Mad Holiday" in 1936. He also appeared in several films such as "Alexander's Ragtime Band" and "The Man Who Shot Liberty Valance". However, he gained more fame through his television show, "The Ken Murray Show", which aired in the late 1940s and 1950s. Aside from his work in the entertainment industry, Murray also served in the US Army during World War II. Later in his career, he became a successful producer and director, working on projects such as "Hollywood Without Make-Up" and "Where Were You When the Lights Went Out?". He was also known for his love of photography and took many candid photos of Hollywood celebrities. Murray passed away at the age of 85 due to heart failure.
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Colin Higgins
Colin Higgins (July 28, 1941 Nouméa-August 5, 1988 Beverly Hills) was an American writer, screenwriter, film director, film producer and actor.
Higgins was best known for his work on the screenplay for the hit film "Harold and Maude" (1971), which he also directed. He also wrote the screenplay for the popular comedy "Silver Streak" (1976) and directed the hit comedy "Foul Play" (1978). Higgins was openly gay and often included LGBTQ themes in his work, which was ahead of its time in terms of representation. He wrote and directed the comedy film "Nine to Five" (1980), which received critical acclaim and has since become a cult classic. Higgins was a talented artist and initially studied art before turning to writing and filmmaking. He struggled with illness for much of his life and sadly passed away at the age of 47 in his home in Beverly Hills.
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Pete Drake
Pete Drake (October 8, 1932 Augusta-July 29, 1988 Nashville) was an American record producer, guitarist, musician, songwriter and actor.
He is best known for his work with the talking steel guitar, an instrument he created in the early 1960s. Drake is recognized as one of the greatest steel guitarists of all time, and his innovative use of the instrument can be heard on countless recordings from that era. He worked with many legendary artists, including George Harrison, Tammy Wynette, Bob Dylan, and Elvis Presley, among others. In addition to his work in the music industry, Drake also appeared in several films and TV shows and wrote a number of songs that have become standards in the country and pop music genres. Despite his success, Drake led a modest life and remained dedicated to his craft until his untimely death from lung cancer in 1988.
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Teru Shimada
Teru Shimada (November 17, 1905 Mito-June 19, 1988 Encino) a.k.a. Akira Shimada or Teru Shumada was an American actor.
Born in Mito, Japan, Shimada immigrated to the United States in the late 1920s and began his acting career in Hollywood in the 1930s. He is best known for his roles in films such as The Mysterians, Tokyo Joe, and Three Little Words. Shimada also made several notable television appearances, including on The Man from U.N.C.L.E. and The Green Hornet. Outside of acting, he was a passionate collector of Japanese art and served as a consultant for the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York. Shimada was married twice and had two children. He passed away in Encino, California in 1988 at the age of 82.
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Christopher Connelly
Christopher Connelly (September 8, 1941 Wichita-December 7, 1988 Burbank) also known as Chris Connelly or Christopher Connely was an American actor.
He began his career as a child model and actor, appearing in commercials and TV shows in the 1950s and 60s. Connelly is best known for his roles in the TV series "Peyton Place" and "Ben Casey," as well as his role in the film "The Big Circus." Later in his career, he became a prominent TV journalist, anchoring shows on ABC and NBC. Connelly passed away in 1988 at the age of 47 due to cancer.
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Lanny Ross
Lanny Ross (January 19, 1906 Seattle-April 25, 1988 New York City) also known as Lancelot Patrick Ross was an American actor and songwriter. He had one child, Barbara Walch.
Lanny Ross was a popular singer during the 1930s and 1940s, known for his smooth, clear tenor voice. He began his career in radio broadcasting before transitioning to a successful career in music. Ross recorded numerous hit records throughout his career, including "Moonlight and Roses" and "Two Hearts in Waltz Time."
In addition to his work in music, Ross also appeared in several films, including "Sing Baby Sing" and "Tropic Holiday." He served in the Army Air Corps during World War II, entertaining troops with live performances.
After his career in music ended, Ross became involved in numerous charitable organizations, including the International Red Cross and the New York City Mission Society. He passed away in 1988 at the age of 82.
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Jesse L. Lasky, Jr.
Jesse L. Lasky, Jr. (September 19, 1910 New York City-April 11, 1988 London) also known as Jesse Lasky, Jr., Jesse Lasky, Jesse L. Lasky Jr, Jesse L. Lasky Jr., Jesse Louis Lasky, Jr. or Jesse Louis Lasky Jr. was an American screenwriter, novelist, playwright, poet and actor.
He was the son of Jesse L. Lasky, one of the founders of Paramount Pictures. Jesse Jr. followed in his father's footsteps and began his career as a screenwriter in the 1930s. He went on to write screenplays for several successful films, including "The Adventures of Robin Hood" (1938) and "Gunga Din" (1939). In addition to his work in film, Lasky Jr. also wrote novels and plays, including "The Limelighters" (1953) which was adapted into a film titled "The Big Circus" (1959). Later in his career, Lasky Jr. moved to London and continued to work as an actor in television and film, including roles in "The Twilight Zone" and "Dr. Who." He was also a member of the Royal Shakespeare Company. Jesse L. Lasky Jr. passed away in London in 1988 at the age of 77.
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Nathan Cook
Nathan Cook (April 9, 1950 Philadelphia-June 11, 1988 Santa Monica) also known as Nathan Earl Cook was an American actor.
Cook began his acting career in the 1970s with small roles in TV shows such as "Barnaby Jones" and "The Six Million Dollar Man". He gained recognition for his performance as Arthur in the TV series "The White Shadow" in the early 1980s. Cook also appeared in movies such as "The Bad News Bears in Breaking Training" and "Body and Soul". In addition to acting, Cook was also a musician and played guitar in a band. Tragically, Cook died at the age of 38 due to complications from AIDS. His legacy in the entertainment industry lives on through his memorable performances.
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Ken Niles
Ken Niles (December 9, 1908 Livingston-October 31, 1988 Santa Monica) was an American actor and announcer. He had two children, Kenneth Niles and Denise Niles.
Ken Niles is most well-known for his work as a radio announcer and sidekick to comedian Abbott and Costello. He played the role of straightman in several of the duo's infamous comedy routines. Niles also hosted radio programs such as "The Halls of Ivy" and "Bright Star" and made several appearances in films during the 1940s and 1950s. Additionally, he lent his voice to a number of Disney and Warner Bros. animated shorts. In 1964, he was honored with a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame for his contributions to the entertainment industry.
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Billy Curtis
Billy Curtis (June 27, 1909 Springfield-November 9, 1988 Dayton) also known as Luigi Curto or Little Billy was an American actor. His children are called Tom Curtis and Judy Curtis.
Billy Curtis was born with dwarfism, standing at just 4 feet and 2 inches tall. He started his acting career in the 1930s, appearing in films such as "King Kong" and "The Wizard of Oz" as part of the munchkin cast. He continued to act throughout his life, appearing in over 70 films, including "High Plains Drifter" and "The Terror of Tiny Town."
Aside from acting, Curtis also worked as a stunt double and performed as a circus clown. He was known for his comedic timing and physical agility. Despite his size, he was also an accomplished wrestler and boxer.
Later in life, Curtis suffered from arthritis and used a motorized scooter to get around. He passed away in 1988 at the age of 79, leaving behind his wife and children.
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Warren Casey
Warren Casey (April 20, 1935 New York City-November 8, 1988 Chicago) was an American writer, actor, lyricist, composer and librettist.
He is best known for co-writing the book, music, and lyrics for the hit musical "Grease" along with Jim Jacobs. "Grease" premiered in Chicago in 1971 and went on to become a global phenomenon, inspiring a hit film adaptation and numerous stage productions. Aside from "Grease," Casey also wrote and composed for other musicals, including "The First" and "Clothes for a Summer Hotel." Casey passed away at the age of 53 from AIDS-related complications in Chicago.
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Bob Steele
Bob Steele (January 23, 1907 Portland-December 21, 1988 Burbank) otherwise known as Robert Adrian Bradbury, Robert Bradbury Jr., Robert Bradbury, Robert Steele, Bob Bradbury Jr. or Bob Steel was an American actor.
Additionally, Steele was known for his roles in over 200 Western films and movie serials. He started his acting career in the silent film era and continued to act until the late 1970s. He appeared in films such as "The Big Sleep" with Humphrey Bogart and Lauren Bacall, and "Key Largo" with Bogart and Edward G. Robinson. Steele was also a skilled horseman and did many of his own stunts in his Western films.
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Boyd Morgan
Boyd Morgan (October 24, 1915 Comanche-January 8, 1988 Tarzana) otherwise known as Boyd Franklin Morgan, Boyd Red Morgan, Red Boyd Morgan, Red Morgan or Boyd 'Red' Morgan was an American american football player, actor, stunt performer and pilot.
He played college football for the University of Southern California and was drafted by the Green Bay Packers in 1940. However, he decided to pursue a career in acting and became a prolific stuntman in over 600 film and TV productions. He worked on iconic films such as "Spartacus," "The Magnificent Seven," and "How the West was Won," and TV shows like "Bonanza," "Gunsmoke," and "The A-Team." In addition to stunt work, he had over 140 acting credits, often playing tough-guy roles in Westerns and action films. Morgan was also a skilled pilot and flew his own plane to sets. He passed away at the age of 72 due to complications from emphysema.
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Divine
Divine (October 19, 1945 Baltimore-March 7, 1988 Los Angeles) a.k.a. Harris Glenn Milstead, Lady Divine, Glen Milstead, Divvie, Harris Glen Milstead, Glenn Milstead, Glenn, Divy or Glenn "Divine" Milstead was an American singer, drag queen, actor, hairdresser, film director and screenwriter.
Divine was born in Baltimore, Maryland and raised in a conservative, middle-class family. He began experimenting with drag performances in his teenage years and eventually became a regular at Baltimore's Hippo nightclub. It was there that he caught the attention of filmmaker John Waters, who cast him in several of his cult films, including "Pink Flamingos," "Female Trouble," and "Polyester."
Aside from his acting career, Divine also pursued a music career with his band, "Divine and the Neon Women," releasing several singles and albums. He appeared in music videos for artists such as David Bowie, and even collaborated on a song with Pet Shop Boys.
In the 1980s, Divine began to branch out into directing and screenwriting, with his film "Lust in the Dust" becoming a cult classic. Tragically, Divine passed away in 1988 at the age of 42 due to heart failure shortly after the release of his final film, "Hairspray." Today, he is remembered as an icon of the drag and LGBTQ+ community, and continues to inspire generations of performers.
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Chuck Roberson
Chuck Roberson (May 10, 1919 Texas-June 8, 1988 Bakersfield) a.k.a. Charles Hugh Roberson, Brett Houston, Charles 'Chuck' Roberson, Charles A. Roberson, Charles Roberson, Bad Chuck, Charles Hugh "Chuck" Roberson or Chuck was an American actor, stunt performer, cowboy, peace officer and stunt double. His children are called Charlene Roberson, Patricia Roberson and Corliss Roberson.
Chuck Roberson began his career in Hollywood as a stuntman and quickly became one of the most sought-after stunt performers in the industry. He was known for his work as a stunt double for John Wayne, with whom he had a close friendship. Roberson appeared in over 350 films and television shows during his career, primarily as a cowboy or a law enforcement officer.
In addition to his work in the entertainment industry, Roberson was also a peace officer. He served as a deputy sheriff in Riverside County, California, and later worked as a detective in the Kern County District Attorney's office.
Roberson passed away on June 8, 1988, in Bakersfield, California, at the age of 69. He was survived by his wife, Ruby, and his three children, as well as a legacy of memorable performances and groundbreaking stunts.
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Jess Oppenheimer
Jess Oppenheimer (November 11, 1913 San Francisco-December 27, 1988 Los Angeles) also known as Jessurun James Oppenheimer was an American inventor, writer, television producer, actor, television director and screenwriter.
He was best known for his work as the producer and head writer of "I Love Lucy," a hit television show that aired from 1951 to 1957. Oppenheimer came up with the idea for the show and helped make Lucille Ball a household name. His other notable television credits include "The Danny Thomas Show," "The Dick Van Dyke Show," and "My Three Sons." In addition to his work in television, Oppenheimer also worked as an inventor and was awarded several patents throughout his career. He passed away in 1988 at the age of 75.
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Frank Gallop
Frank Gallop (June 20, 1900 Boston-May 15, 1988 New York City) also known as Francis Gallop or Gallop, Frank was an American actor.
Gallop started his career as a radio announcer and host in the 1920s, before transitioning to acting in films and television in the 1950s. He appeared in several popular TV shows of the time, such as "The Twilight Zone", "Alfred Hitchcock Presents", and "The Honeymooners".
In addition to his work in the entertainment industry, Gallop was also an accomplished painter and illustrator. He studied art at the National Academy of Design and his work was exhibited at several galleries in New York City.
Gallop is perhaps best remembered for his contribution to a now-famous prank radio call, known as the "Giant Poodle" hoax. In 1953, he pretended to be an eccentric millionaire looking to purchase a giant poodle for his wife on the show "The Coolest Show in Town". The hoax sparked national attention and caused a frenzy among dog owners and breeders.
Despite his significant contributions to the entertainment industry and his unique place in radio history, Gallop largely remained under the radar, and little is known about his personal life.
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Robert Livingston
Robert Livingston (December 9, 1904 Quincy-March 7, 1988 Tarzana) a.k.a. Robt. Randall, Bob Randall, Robert Randall, Robert L. Livingston, Bob Livingston, Robert Edward Randall, Robert Edgar Randall or Edgar Randall was an American actor. He had one child, Addison Randall.
Livingston started his career in Hollywood in 1927, with a small role in the film "Rough House Rosie." He then appeared in several films throughout the 1930s, mostly in supporting roles, and also worked as a producer and writer. He is perhaps best known for his role as Captain Jim Flagg in the television series "Adventures of Wild Bill Hickok," which aired from 1951 to 1958. He also appeared in numerous other television shows throughout the 1950s and 1960s, including "The Lone Ranger" and "Perry Mason." Livingston retired from acting in 1966 and spent the rest of his life in Tarzana, California.
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Joseph Depew
Joseph Depew (July 11, 1912 Harrison-October 30, 1988 Escondido) was an American actor.
He appeared in both film and television throughout his career, with over 100 credits to his name. Depew began his acting career in the 1930s, and his work ranged from small, uncredited roles to larger character parts in well-known movies such as "Spartacus" and "North by Northwest." He was also a popular guest star on television shows in the 1950s and 1960s, including "Gunsmoke," "The Twilight Zone," and "Perry Mason." Outside of acting, Depew was involved in several community organizations in both California and Arizona. He passed away in 1988 at the age of 76.
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Monte Rawlins
Monte Rawlins (February 21, 1907 Yakima-July 13, 1988 Hawaii) was an American actor.
During his career, Monte Rawlins appeared in over 80 films, starting in the 1930s. He is best known for his role as John Wesley Hardin in "Frontier Marshal" (1939), alongside Randolph Scott. Rawlins also had roles in several other Western films, including "Whistling Bullets" (1937), "The Lone Ranger Rides Again" (1939), and "Abilene Town" (1946).
In addition to acting, Rawlins was also a boxer in his early years and a successful professional wrestler later in life. He retired from acting in the early 1950s and moved to Hawaii, where he resided until his death in 1988.
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Spencer Chan
Spencer Chan (March 28, 1892 Shanghai-January 9, 1988 Los Angeles) also known as Spencer Edward Chan was an American actor.
He appeared in over 150 films from 1910 to 1954, primarily playing Chinese or Japanese characters due to his ethnicity. He began his career in the silent film era and transitioned to sound films seamlessly. Chan was known for his ability to speak multiple languages, including Mandarin, Cantonese, and Japanese, which made him highly sought after in Hollywood. In addition to his acting career, he was also a translator, working on projects such as the Chinese-language version of Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs. Despite facing discrimination and limited opportunities as an Asian-American actor during that time, Chan was highly respected among his peers and a trailblazer for Asian representation in Hollywood.
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