American movie stars died in 2005
Here are 50 famous actors from United States of America died in 2005:
Lane Smith
Lane Smith (April 29, 1936 Memphis-June 13, 2005 Northridge) a.k.a. Walter Lane Smith or Walter Lane Smith III was an American presenter and actor. His children are called Robertson Smith and Lane Smith Jr..
Lane Smith started his career in the early 1970s, appearing in a number of films and television shows. He gained widespread recognition for his role as Perry White in the 1990s television series Lois & Clark: The New Adventures of Superman.
Smith also appeared in many movies such as "My Cousin Vinny", "The Mighty Ducks", and "The Distinguished Gentleman". He received critical acclaim for his portrayal of Richard Nixon in the 1989 biopic "The Final Days".
In addition to his acting career, Lane Smith was also a presenter and narrator. He lent his voice to various documentaries and shows, including "American Experience" and "The Discovery Channel".
Sadly, Lane Smith passed away in 2005 due to complications from amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS).
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Kevin Hagen
Kevin Hagen (April 3, 1928 Chicago-July 9, 2005 Grants Pass) a.k.a. Donald N. Hagen or Keven Hagen was an American actor and playwright. He had one child, Kristopher Hagen.
Kevin Hagen began his career in theater, performing in plays such as "Come Back, Little Sheba" and "Death of a Salesman." He later transitioned to television and film, appearing in numerous productions throughout his career.
One of his most notable roles was as Dr. Hiram Baker in the TV series "Little House on the Prairie." He also appeared in other popular TV shows including "Gunsmoke," "Bonanza," and "The Waltons."
In addition to his acting career, Hagen was also a playwright and wrote several plays including "A Tenth of an Inch Makes the Difference" and "The Christian Licorice Store."
Hagen passed away in 2005 due to esophageal cancer.
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John Spencer
John Spencer (December 20, 1946 New York City-December 16, 2005 Los Angeles) a.k.a. John Speshock or John Speshock, Jr. was an American actor.
He is best known for his role as Leo McGarry on the television series "The West Wing," for which he won an Emmy Award in 2002. Spencer began his career on stage before transitioning to film and television. In addition to his work on "The West Wing," he appeared in numerous films including "Presumed Innocent," "The Rock," and "The Negotiator." Spencer also had recurring roles on the series "L.A. Law" and "Crossing Jordan." He was described by his co-stars as a talented and generous actor who was beloved on and off the set. Spencer passed away due to a heart attack at the age of 58, four days before his 59th birthday.
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Eugene Gordon Lee
Eugene Gordon Lee (October 25, 1933 Fort Worth-October 16, 2005 Minneapolis) was an American actor and child actor.
He was best known for his role as Porky in the Our Gang comedy film series from 1935 to 1939, where he appeared in over 40 short films. Lee's first acting role was at the age of two in the film "The Call of the Savage" (1935), and he went on to appear in other films such as "Captain January" (1936) and "The Little Red Schoolhouse" (1936).
Despite his success as a child actor, Lee struggled to transition into adult roles and eventually left acting altogether. He went on to work in various jobs, including as a store security guard and a cab driver. In the 1980s, Lee made a brief return to acting, with appearances in the films "Things Are Tough All Over" (1982) and "Gremlins" (1984).
Lee was married three times and had six children. He passed away at the age of 71 from pneumonia and complications of diabetes.
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Tommy Bond
Tommy Bond (September 16, 1926 Dallas-September 24, 2005 Northridge) also known as Thomas Ross Bond, Butch, Thomas Ross "Tommy" Bond, Tommy 'Butch' Bond or Tommy was an American actor and child actor. His child is called Thomas R. Bond II.
Tommy Bond is best known for his role as Butch in the original "Our Gang" comedy shorts from 1932-1934. He appeared in 27 "Our Gang" shorts in total. Bond also had small roles in several popular films of the era including "Gone with the Wind" (1939) and "It's a Wonderful Life" (1946). After serving in World War II, Bond worked as a grip and assistant director in the film industry. Later in life, he became involved in real estate and also appeared at nostalgia conventions for fans of the "Our Gang" series. Bond passed away at the age of 79 from heart disease in Northridge, California.
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John Raitt
John Raitt (January 29, 1917 Santa Ana-February 20, 2005 Pacific Palisades) also known as John Emmett Raitt was an American singer and actor. He had three children, Bonnie Raitt, David Raitt and Steven Raitt.
John Raitt rose to fame on Broadway, where he starred in a number of hit musicals such as "Carousel," "The Pajama Game," and "Oklahoma!" He was known for his powerful baritone voice and his impressive stage presence. In addition to his successful career on Broadway, Raitt also appeared in several Hollywood films, including "The Pajama Game" and "Xanadu." Later in life, he continued to perform and tour, often alongside his daughter, Grammy award-winning musician Bonnie Raitt. Raitt was a recipient of numerous awards and honors, including a Tony Award for Best Actor in a Musical for his role in "The Pajama Game." He was widely recognized as a talented performer and a beloved figure in the entertainment industry.
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Edward Bunker
Edward Bunker (December 31, 1933 Hollywood-July 19, 2005 Burbank) otherwise known as Eddie Bunker, Bunker, Edward, Eddie, Bunk or Edward Heward Bunker was an American novelist, author, screenwriter and actor. He had one child, Brendan Bunker.
Bunker had a troubled youth and spent much of his early life in and out of prisons. While serving time in San Quentin, he started writing and discovered his talent for storytelling. His books are known for their gritty and realistic portrayal of the criminal underworld.
Many of Bunker's books have been adapted into movies, including "Straight Time" which starred Dustin Hoffman, and "Animal Factory" which was directed by Steve Buscemi. Bunker also had a successful career as a character actor, appearing in films like "Reservoir Dogs" and "Heat".
Later in life, Bunker became a respected advocate for prison reform and worked as a consultant on various film projects. He died of respiratory failure in 2005 at the age of 71, leaving behind a legacy as one of the most influential and respected writers of crime fiction.
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Keith Andes
Keith Andes (July 12, 1920 Ocean City-November 11, 2005 Newhall) also known as John Charles Andes was an American actor. He had two children, Matt Andes and Mark Andes.
Keith Andes began his acting career on stage before making his way into Hollywood in the late 1940s. He was known for his work in films such as "The Farmer's Daughter" (1947), "Clash by Night" (1952), and "Away All Boats" (1956). Andes also appeared in numerous television shows throughout the 1950s and 1960s including "The Twilight Zone," "Perry Mason," and "The Wild Wild West."
In addition to his acting career, Andes was a World War II veteran and served in the United States Army Air Forces as a pilot. After his military service, he took up flying as a hobby and eventually became a commercial pilot.
Andes continued to work in film and television up until his death in 2005 at the age of 85.
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Ron Feinberg
Ron Feinberg (October 10, 1932 San Francisco-January 29, 2005 Los Angeles) also known as Ron Fineberg, Ronnie A. Feinberg, Ronald Feinberg, Ron A. Feinberg or Ronald A. Feinberg was an American actor, voice actor and character actor.
He began his acting career in the 1960s and appeared in numerous films and television shows. Some of his notable film credits include "The Big Fix" (1978), "The Cannonball Run" (1981), and "The Blob" (1988). On television, Feinberg appeared in shows such as "Star Trek," "The Twilight Zone," and "Gunsmoke." He also lent his voice to several cartoons, including "The Smurfs" and "Scooby-Doo." In addition to his career in entertainment, Feinberg was also an accomplished painter and photographer. He passed away in 2005 at the age of 72.
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Ray Bumatai
Ray Bumatai (December 20, 1952 Offenbach-October 6, 2005 Honolulu) otherwise known as Ray M. Bumatai or Raimund Bumatai was an American singer, actor, musician, voice actor and comedian. He had one child, Cecilly Ann Bumatai.
Born in Germany to a military father and Hawaiian mother, Bumatai spent most of his childhood in Hawaii. He first gained popularity in the 1970s as a member of the comedic musical group, Booga Booga. He later became a regular performer in Waikiki and went on to star in various TV shows and movies, including "Magnum, P.I." and "Jake and the Fatman."
Bumatai was also a talented musician and released several albums throughout his career. He was known for his soulful singing voice and often incorporated music into his comedy routines.
In addition to his entertainment career, Bumatai was also a community activist and worked to improve the quality of life for Native Hawaiians. He was diagnosed with lung cancer in 2004 and died the following year at the age of 52.
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Ed Bishop
Ed Bishop (June 11, 1932 Brooklyn-June 8, 2005 Kingston upon Thames) otherwise known as Edward Bishop or George Victor Bishop was an American actor and voice actor. His children are called Daniel Bishop, Georgina Bishop, Serina Bishop and Jessica Bishop.
Ed Bishop is best known for his work in the UK science fiction television series, "UFO," where he played the lead role of Commander Ed Straker from 1970 to 1973. Prior to his acting career, Bishop served in the US Army and attended the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art in London. He also worked as a radio announcer, which helped him develop his distinctive voice. In addition to "UFO," Bishop appeared in numerous other TV shows and films, including "Supercar," "Captain Scarlet and the Mysterons," and "2001: A Space Odyssey." Bishop passed away from a chest infection at the age of 72.
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Ron Tomme
Ron Tomme (October 24, 1931 Chicago-January 29, 2005 New York City) was an American actor.
He studied drama at the Goodman School of Drama at the Art Institute of Chicago and started his career in regional theater. He later moved to New York City and became a prolific stage actor, appearing in numerous Broadway productions including "The Apple Tree," "Travesties," and "The Ritz."
Tomme also had a successful career in film and television. He appeared in several episodes of the hit TV series "Law & Order" and the film "Silence of the Lambs" in a small role as a lab technician. He also lent his voice to many animated TV shows, including "Pinky and the Brain" and "The Simpsons."
In addition to his acting career, Tomme was also an accomplished director and acting teacher. He taught at the Lee Strasberg Theatre and Film Institute in New York City and directed several off-Broadway productions throughout his career.
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Philip Amelio
Philip Amelio (November 3, 1977 Sharon-April 1, 2005 Boston) otherwise known as Philip John Amelio III, Philip John Amelio II or Philip J. Amelio was an American actor.
He was best known for his work in the independent film industry, with roles in movies such as "A Season on the Brink" and "The Dead Matter". Amelio began his career in acting at a young age, and by the time he was a teenager, he was already appearing in small roles on television shows. Despite his promising talent, Amelio struggled with drug addiction throughout his adult life, and tragically died of a drug overdose at the age of 27. Despite his untimely death, Amelio left behind a legacy of powerful performances that continue to inspire young actors today.
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Louis Nye
Louis Nye (May 1, 1913 Hartford-October 9, 2005 Los Angeles) otherwise known as Louis Neistat was an American comedian, actor and voice actor. He had one child, Peter Nye.
Nye started his career as a comedian in the 1940s and became known for his impressions of famous personalities such as Adlai Stevenson and Hubert Humphrey. He also appeared on The Steve Allen Show and played a supporting role in the hit TV show The Beverly Hillbillies. In addition to his comedic work, Nye voiced several characters in animated TV shows including Birdman and the Galaxy Trio and The Pink Panther Show. Later in life, he became an advocate for hearing-impaired individuals and served on the board of the Hearing Loss Association of America.
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Eddie Albert
Eddie Albert (April 22, 1906 Rock Island-May 26, 2005 Pacific Palisades) otherwise known as Edward Albert Heimberger, Eddie Albert Sr. or Eddie Albert Heimberger was an American singer, actor, voice actor, gardener, humanitarian and activist. He had two children, Edward Albert and Maria Albert Zucht.
Eddie Albert began his career in entertainment as a singer and later transitioned to acting in theater and films. He appeared in more than 200 films and TV shows throughout his career, including notable roles in "Roman Holiday," "The Longest Day," and the TV series "Green Acres" for which he received three Emmy nominations.
Beyond his work in entertainment, Albert was also known for his humanitarian and environmental activism. He served in the U.S. Navy during World War II and participated in environmental preservation efforts, advocating for the conservation of forests and wildlife. In recognition of his environmental work, he received the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 1985.
In addition to his activism, Albert was an avid gardener and authored multiple books on the topic. He passed away at the age of 99 in his home in Pacific Palisades, California.
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Brock Peters
Brock Peters (July 2, 1927 New York City-August 23, 2005 Los Angeles) also known as George Fisher or Broc Peters was an American actor and voice actor. He had one child, Lise Jo Peters.
Peters began his career as a stage actor in the 1940s, appearing in several productions on Broadway. He gained national recognition for his role as Tom Robinson in the 1962 film adaptation of Harper Lee's "To Kill a Mockingbird." Peters also appeared in other notable films such as "The L-Shaped Room," "Soylent Green," and "Star Trek IV: The Voyage Home," where he played Admiral Cartwright.
Peters was also a prolific voice actor, lending his voice to many animated television shows, including "The Transformers," "Gargoyles," and "Justice League." He also provided the voice for Darth Vader in the radio adaptation of "Star Wars."
Throughout his career, Peters was dedicated to advancing civil rights and equal opportunities for African American actors. In the 1960s, he served as the president of the New York branch of the Actors' Equity Association, and was later elected to the national council.
Peters passed away in 2005 at the age of 78 due to complications from pancreatic cancer.
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Jason Evers
Jason Evers (January 2, 1922 New York City-March 13, 2005 Los Angeles) also known as Herb Evers or Herbert Evers was an American actor.
He began his career in the 1950s and appeared in many films and TV series throughout his career. Some of his notable film roles include "The Brain That Wouldn't Die" (1962) and "House of the Damned" (1963). He also made appearances in popular TV series such as "The Twilight Zone" and "Hawaii Five-O". Evers was also a prolific stage actor and appeared in many Broadway productions. He served in the U.S. Army during World War II and fought in the Battle of the Bulge. In addition to his acting career, Evers was also a writer and published several books during his lifetime.
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Lloyd Avery II
Lloyd Avery II (June 21, 1969 Los Angeles-September 4, 2005 Crescent City) also known as Lloyd Fernandez Avery or Lloyd F. Avery, Jr. was an American actor.
He first gained attention for his role as Knuckles in the 1993 film "Menace II Society." Avery also had supporting roles in other popular films such as "Poetic Justice" and "Lockdown." Despite his success in Hollywood, Avery was also involved in criminal activities and was convicted on several occasions. He was serving a life sentence for double murder at the time of his death in 2005 from complications due to kidney disease. Avery's life was the subject of the documentary "Tales of the Grim Sleeper," which explored the unsolved murders in South Central Los Angeles during the 1980s and 1990s.
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Lamont Bentley
Lamont Bentley (October 25, 1973 Milwaukee-January 19, 2005 Ventura County) a.k.a. Artimus Lamont Bentley or L Rock was an American actor and rapper. He had two children, Artesia Bentley and Brazil Bentley.
Bentley began his acting career in the 1990s, with guest appearances on popular TV shows such as "Moesha" and "The Parkers". He later landed a recurring role on the hit comedy series "Moesha" as Hakeem Campbell, which helped increase his popularity. He went on to appear in numerous TV shows and movies, including "The Hughleys", "Tales from the Hood", "The Jamie Foxx Show", and "Family Law".
Outside of acting, Bentley also had a successful career in music, releasing several rap albums under the name L Rock. He also appeared in music videos for artists such as Master P and Silkk the Shocker.
Tragically, Bentley died in 2005 at the age of 31 in a car accident in Ventura County, California. He was survived by his two children and his fiancée, Jacque Lynn Smith.
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Richard Pryor
Richard Pryor (December 1, 1940 Peoria-December 10, 2005 Los Angeles) also known as Richard Franklin Lennox Thomas Pryor III, Rich, Dick, Richie, Dickie or Richard Franklin Lennox Thomas Pryor was an American comedian, actor, screenwriter, film producer, master of ceremonies, writer and television producer. He had six children, Kelsey Pryor, Franklin Pryor, Rain Pryor, Elizabeth Pryor, Richard Pryor Jr. and Steven Pryor.
Pryor is regarded as one of the most influential comedians of all time, known for his raw, honest and often controversial style of comedy that tackled social issues such as race, poverty and politics. He began his career in the 1960s as a stand-up comedian in clubs and on television. He gained national attention in the early 1970s with his albums “That Nigger’s Crazy” and “Bicentennial Nigger”. He went on to star in numerous films, including "Silver Streak", "Stir Crazy" and "Brewster’s Millions". He was also a writer and producer of several films, including "Blazing Saddles". In addition to his successful career in entertainment, Pryor battled drug addiction and was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis in the 1980s. He left a lasting legacy on the world of comedy and entertainment, and his influence can still be seen today.
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Nipsey Russell
Nipsey Russell (September 15, 1918 Atlanta-October 2, 2005 New York City) a.k.a. Russell, Nipsey, Npsey Rusell, Julius "Nipsey" Russell, Julius Russell, Nipsy Russell, The Poet Laureate of Comedy, The Poet Laureate of Television, Harlem's Son of Fun or Nipsey was an American actor.
He was known for his numerous appearances on television game shows and late-night talk shows, such as "The Tonight Show" and "Match Game." Russell was also a frequent guest on children's programs, including "Sesame Street" and "Captain Kangaroo." In addition to his work in television, he appeared in several films, such as "The Wiz" and "Car 54, Where Are You?" Russell was also a talented comedian and poet, and his quick wit and clever wordplay earned him the nickname "The Poet Laureate of Comedy." He continued to perform stand-up and appeared in stage productions throughout his career. Russell passed away in 2005 at the age of 87.
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Warren Thomas
Warren Thomas (June 5, 1958 San Francisco-September 2, 2005 Manhattan) was an American comedian and actor.
Thomas began his career as a stand-up comedian, performing in comedy clubs in San Francisco and Los Angeles. He gained widespread recognition for his appearances on television shows such as "The Tonight Show" and "Late Night With David Letterman." In addition to his work in stand-up, Thomas also appeared in several films, including "CB4" and "Poetic Justice."
Aside from his career in entertainment, Thomas was also known for his outspoken activism. He was a vocal advocate for the legalization of marijuana and was often seen wearing pro-cannabis clothing during his performances.
Thomas passed away in 2005 at the age of 47 due to natural causes. His legacy as a trailblazing comedian and advocate for cannabis legalization continues to inspire many in the entertainment industry today.
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John Bromfield
John Bromfield (June 11, 1922 South Bend-September 19, 2005 Palm Desert) a.k.a. Farron McClain Brumfield, Johnny or Farron Bromfield was an American actor.
He initially pursued a career in athletics and was a champion swimmer before becoming an actor. He became well-known for his roles in films such as "The Treasure of Pancho Villa" (1955) and "Hot Cars" (1956) and TV shows like "The Sheriff of Cochise" (1956-1957) and "U.S. Marshal" (1958-1960). Later in his career, he also worked as a wildlife photographer and a conservationist, producing documentaries on endangered species. Bromfield was married four times and had four children.
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Bob Denver
Bob Denver (January 9, 1935 New Rochelle-September 2, 2005 Winston-Salem) also known as Robert Osborne David Denver, Little buddy, Robert Denver or Robert Osbourne "Bob" Denver was an American actor and radio personality. He had four children, Colin Denver, Patrick Denver, Megan Denver and Emily Denver.
Denver is best known for his role as Gilligan on the popular television show "Gilligan's Island" which aired from 1964-1967. Prior to his success with "Gilligan's Island," Denver appeared in several other television shows and films, including "The Many Loves of Dobie Gillis" and "Take Her, She's Mine."
After "Gilligan's Island," Denver continued to act in television shows and movies, but also became a radio personality. He hosted several radio shows during his career, including "The Bob Denver Show" and "Gilligan's Island Radio Show."
Denver was married four times and had a total of four children. He passed away in 2005 at the age of 70 from complications related to throat cancer. Despite his success in television and radio, Denver is remembered by many as a kind and humble person who loved his family and cherished his fans.
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Don Adams
Don Adams (April 13, 1923 Manhattan-September 25, 2005 Los Angeles) also known as Donald James Yarmy or Adams, Don was an American comedian, actor, voice actor, television director, screenwriter, television producer, film editor and film director. He had seven children, Cecily Adams, Stacey Adams, Sean Adams, Caroline Adams, Christine Adams, Catherine Adams and Beige Adams.
Don Adams is best known for his role as Maxwell Smart in the television show "Get Smart," which aired from 1965 to 1970. He won three Emmy Awards for his portrayal of the bumbling secret agent. Prior to his acting career, Adams served in the United States Marine Corps during World War II. He began his career as a stand-up comedian and later transitioned to television and film. Adams also lent his voice to several animated shows, including "Tennessee Tuxedo and His Tales" and "Inspector Gadget." He continued to act and make appearances on television shows and films throughout the 1990s and early 2000s. In addition to his work in entertainment, Adams was also an advocate for the St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, and served as the spokesperson for its annual fundraising campaign for many years.
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Pat Morita
Pat Morita (June 28, 1932 Isleton-November 24, 2005 Las Vegas) otherwise known as Noriyuki Morita, Mr. Miyagi, Nori, The Hip Nip, Noriyuki "Pat" Morita, Patrick N. Morita, Pat Noriyuki Morita, Noriyuki 'Pat' Morita or Noryuki 'Pat' Morita was an American actor and voice actor. He had three children, Erin Morita, Aly Morita and Tia Morita.
Pat Morita was famous for his portrayal of Mr. Miyagi in the Karate Kid film series, which earned him an Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actor. He also starred in many other films and TV shows, including Happy Days, M*A*S*H, and Mulan. Morita was active in Hollywood for over three decades and often played Japanese or Asian characters. Prior to his acting career, he worked as a stand-up comedian and was a veteran of the United States Army. Morita passed away in 2005 at the age of 73 due to complications from spinal surgery.
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Leon Askin
Leon Askin (September 18, 1907 Vienna-June 3, 2005 Vienna) also known as Leo Aschkenasy, L. Askeen or Leon Aschkenasy was an American actor.
Askin was best known for his role as General Burkhalter in the TV series "Hogan's Heroes". He started his acting career in Austria, but was later forced to flee the country due to his Jewish ancestry. He continued acting in the United States and appeared in numerous TV shows and movies, such as "One, Two, Three" and "The Great Race". Askin was also a talented opera singer and appeared in several operas in Vienna. He was a lifelong supporter of the arts and was involved in various cultural organizations throughout his life.
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J. D. Cannon
J. D. Cannon (April 24, 1922 Salmon-May 20, 2005 Hudson) also known as John Donovan Cannon, John David Cannon or Jack Cannon was an American actor and soldier.
Cannon was born and raised in Salmon, Idaho. In his early 20s, he enlisted in the United States Army and served during World War II. After the war, he attended the American Academy of Dramatic Arts in New York City and began his acting career in theater.
Cannon made his film debut in 1958 in "Murder by Contract" and went on to appear in numerous film, television, and theater productions. He is perhaps best known for his role as Chief Peter B. Clifford in the television series "McCloud" from 1970 to 1977.
Throughout his career, Cannon also made guest appearances on various television shows including "The Wild Wild West," "Bonanza," and "Kojak." He was also a regular on "The Feather and Father Gang" in the 1970s.
Cannon continued acting until his death in 2005 at the age of 83. He was survived by his wife Alice, whom he had been married to for 57 years, two children, and several grandchildren.
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Frank Gorshin
Frank Gorshin (April 5, 1933 Pittsburgh-May 17, 2005 Burbank) also known as Frank John Gorshin Jr., Frank John Gorshin, Jr. or Frank J. Gorshin was an American comedian, actor, impressionist and soldier. He had one child, Mitchell Gorshin.
Frank Gorshin is best known for his role as the villainous Riddler on the 1960s Batman TV series. He earned an Emmy nomination for his work on the show. Gorshin also had a successful career in stand-up comedy and made appearances on numerous TV shows, including The Ed Sullivan Show and The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson. He also appeared in several films, including The Naked Gun 2½: The Smell of Fear and 12 Monkeys. Gorshin was drafted into the U.S. Army during the Korean War and later continued to serve in the Army Reserve. In his later years, he battled lung cancer and died at the age of 72.
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Matthew McGrory
Matthew McGrory (May 17, 1973 West Chester-August 9, 2005 Los Angeles) also known as Bigfoot, Matthew Blake McGrory, Matt McGrory or Big Foot was an American actor.
He was best known for his roles in movies such as "Big Fish," "The Devil's Rejects," and "Men in Black II." McGrory was born with a rare condition called gigantism which caused him to grow to a height of 7 feet 6 inches. Despite the challenges this presented, he was able to pursue his passion for acting and became a beloved figure in the industry. In addition to his acting work, McGrory also held a world record for the largest feet of any living person, with a shoe size of 29. Sadly, he passed away at the age of 32 due to heart failure.
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Barney Martin
Barney Martin (March 3, 1923 Queens-March 21, 2005 Studio City) was an American actor and police officer.
He began his career with the New York City Police Department, serving for twenty years before retiring as a detective. After retiring from the police force, Martin pursued a career in show business and landed his breakout role as Jerry Seinfeld's father Morty on the hit sitcom "Seinfeld." He also appeared on other popular shows such as "The Golden Girls" and "The King of Queens." In addition to his acting career, Martin was also a talented musician who played the drums and performed with bands in his spare time.
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Don Durant
Don Durant (November 20, 1932 Long Beach-March 15, 2005 Monarch Beach) also known as Donald Allison Durae was an American singer and actor.
He grew up in California and began his career as a singer, performing in various nightclubs and lounges in the 1950s. He later transitioned to acting and appeared in several TV shows and films throughout the 1960s and 1970s, including "The Rifleman," "Bonanza," and "The Big Valley." Durant also had a brief stint as a game show host, hosting "The Tijuana Brass" in the late 1960s. Despite his success, Durant struggled with alcoholism throughout his life and died of complications related to the disease in 2005 at the age of 72.
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Anthony George
Anthony George (January 29, 1921 Endicott-March 16, 2005 Newport Beach) a.k.a. Octavio Gabriel George, Ott George, Tony George or Ottavio Gabriel George was an American actor.
He was born and raised in Endicott, New York, where he discovered his passion for acting at an early age. After serving in the military during World War II, George pursued his acting career and appeared in numerous Broadway productions throughout the 1950s and 1960s.
In 1965, he landed his breakout role as Burke Devlin in the popular television series "Dark Shadows". He appeared in over 200 episodes of the show, which became a cult classic and launched his career as a television actor.
In addition to his work on "Dark Shadows", George appeared in several other television series, including "The Untouchables", "The Outer Limits", and "The F.B.I.". He also appeared in several films, including "The Young Philadelphians" and "Peyton Place".
Throughout his career, George was known for his talent, versatility, and dedication to his craft. He won critical acclaim for his performances and was respected by his peers in the entertainment industry. Despite his success, he remained humble and focused on his work until his death in 2005.
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Marc Lawrence
Marc Lawrence (February 17, 1910 New York City-November 28, 2005 Palm Springs) a.k.a. F.A. Foss, Marc Laurence, Marc C. Lawrence, Max Goldsmith, Mark Lawrence or F. A. Foss was an American actor and television director. He had two children, Toni Lawrence and Michael Lawrence.
Marc Lawrence started his career as a character actor in various Hollywood films. He was known for his roles as gangsters in films such as "The Asphalt Jungle" (1950), "Key Largo" (1948), and "The Big Easy" (1932). He also worked in various television series such as "The Twilight Zone," "Perry Mason" and "Batman."
In addition to his acting career, Lawrence also worked as a television director for shows like "Stoney Burke" and "The Virginian." He was a member of the Directors Guild of America, the Screen Actors Guild, and the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences.
During his career, Lawrence won several awards including the Best Supporting Actor at the Academy of Western Artists in 1993 and a Lifetime Achievement Award from the Temecula Valley International Film Festival in 1998.
Lawrence passed away at the age of 95 in Palm Springs, California. His contributions to the film and television industry remain an important part of Hollywood history.
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Stephen Elliott
Stephen Elliott (November 27, 1918 New York City-May 21, 2005 Woodland Hills) a.k.a. Elliott Pershing Stitzel, Steve Elliott or Stephen Elliot was an American actor. His children are called Jency Elliott and Jon Elliott.
Stephen Elliott had a prolific acting career that spanned more than five decades. He appeared in over 70 films, including "The Andromeda Strain," "Arthur," "The Abyss," and "Beverly Hills Cop." He also made numerous TV appearances, including guest spots on popular shows like "Perry Mason," "Kojak," and "The A-Team."
In addition to his work on screen, Elliott was also a skilled stage actor. He made his Broadway debut in 1946 and went on to appear in several productions, including "The Rope Dancers," "The Price," and "The Shadow Box," for which he received a Tony nomination.
Elliott was married twice, first to actress Alice Ghostley and then to his second wife, actress Connie Sawyer, until his death in 2005 at the age of 86. He is remembered for his talent, versatility, and longevity in the entertainment industry.
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Lon McCallister
Lon McCallister (April 17, 1923 Los Angeles-June 11, 2005 South Lake Tahoe) also known as Herbert Alonzo McCallister Jr., Bud McAllister, Bud McCallister, Pvt. Lon McCallister or Buddy was an American actor.
He began his career in the film industry in 1937 and quickly rose to fame for his roles in several popular films including "The Bells of St. Mary’s" (1945), "Junior Miss" (1945) and "The Man from Colorado" (1948). He appeared in nearly twenty films throughout his career and also made numerous television appearances in shows such as "Perry Mason," "Rawhide" and "Bonanza."
After serving in the military during World War II, McCallister returned to acting and continued to work in the industry until the early 1960s. He then transitioned to a successful career in real estate and owned a popular ski resort in South Lake Tahoe. McCallister was known for his good looks and charming personality, making him a fan favorite both on and off the screen.
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Howard Morris
Howard Morris (September 4, 1919 The Bronx-May 21, 2005 Los Angeles) also known as Howard Jerome Morris, Howard "Howie" Morris, Howie, Howie Morris or Howard Norris was an American actor, television director, film director, voice actor, comedian and screenwriter. He had four children, Gabrielle Morris, Devra Morris, David Morris and Kim Morris.
Morris began his career as a cartoonist, but his interest in comedy led him to become a performer. He made his television debut in the 1950s and is best known for his work on "The Andy Griffith Show" where he played the lovable hillbilly, Ernest T. Bass. Morris also provided the voice for many beloved cartoon characters such as Jughead in the 1960s animated series "The Archie Show." His work as a director included episodes of "Gomer Pyle, U.S.M.C." and "The Dick Van Dyke Show." Morris continued to work in the entertainment industry until his death in 2005 at the age of 85.
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Arvo Ojala
Arvo Ojala (February 21, 1920 Seattle-July 1, 2005 Gresham) was an American actor and marksman.
He was known for his roles in western films, often playing the villain. Ojala was also a renowned fast-draw expert and gun coach in Hollywood, training many well-known actors in the use of firearms for their roles. In addition to his film work, Ojala was a decorated World War II veteran and a sheriff's deputy in California. He was inducted into the Hollywood Stuntmen's Hall of Fame in 1980.
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Ford Rainey
Ford Rainey (August 8, 1908 Mountain Home-July 25, 2005 Santa Monica) also known as Ford Raney was an American actor. He had three children, James Rainey, Kathy Rainey and Robert Rainey.
Rainey began his acting career in theater and then transitioned to television and film. He appeared in over 100 television shows, including "Gunsmoke," "Bonanza," and "The Twilight Zone." He also had roles in films such as "The Sand Pebbles" and "Two Rode Together." Rainey was a Korean War veteran and continued to act until his death at the age of 96. In addition to his acting career, Rainey was also a member of the National Council on the Arts and the National Endowment for the Arts.
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William Hootkins
William Hootkins (July 5, 1948 Dallas-October 23, 2005 Santa Monica) a.k.a. Bill Hootkins, William Michael Hootkins, Hoot, Bill or William Michael "Hoot" Hootkins was an American actor and voice actor.
He was best known for his roles in iconic films such as "Star Wars: A New Hope" where he played the character of Jek Tono Porkins and "Raiders of the Lost Ark" in which he played the character of Major Eaton. Hootkins was well-known for his distinctive voice, which earned him a considerable amount of voice-acting work throughout his career. Apart from his work in films such as "Hardware" and "Flash Gordon", he also remained active on stage throughout his career, performing in various productions in the UK and the US. His contributions to the entertainment industry have made him a beloved figure among fans of science-fiction and fantasy movies.
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Mel Welles
Mel Welles (February 17, 1924 New York City-August 18, 2005 Norfolk) otherwise known as Ira Meltcher, Mell Welles, Mel Wells or Ernst von Theumer was an American actor, film director, businessperson, teacher, psychologist, disc jockey, writer and voice actor. He had two children, Kevin Welles and Woody Welles.
In his early career, Mel Welles worked as a disc jockey, and later as a writer and actor in various television and film productions. He is best known for his work in the cult classic "Little Shop of Horrors," which he directed and also had a small role in as Gravis Mushnik. When he wasn't in front of the camera or on set, Welles also worked as a psychology professor and was a successful businessman, owning and running several companies. His unique background and skill set also made him a sought-after voice actor, lending his voice to many animated television series and commercials. Welles continued to work in the entertainment industry well into his later years and made a significant impact on the world of film and television.
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Stanley DeSantis
Stanley DeSantis (July 6, 1953 Roslyn-August 16, 2005 Los Angeles) also known as Stanley De Santis or Stanley Desantis was an American actor and businessperson.
He appeared in over 60 films and television shows throughout his career, including "The Aviator," "Seinfeld," and "The Manchurian Candidate."
In addition to acting, DeSantis was a successful entrepreneur. He founded the fragrance company "The Thymes" in 1982, which grew to become a multi-million dollar business. He sold the company in 1999 to pursue his acting career full-time.
DeSantis was known for his eccentric personality and sense of humor on set. He was frequently described as a joy to work with and had many close friends in the industry. He passed away in 2005 due to a heart attack at the age of 52.
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Rik Van Nutter
Rik Van Nutter (May 1, 1929 California-November 12, 2005 West Palm Beach) a.k.a. Rik Von Nutter, Frederick Allen Nutter, Clyde Rogers or Rick Van Nutter was an American actor.
He started his acting career in the 1950s, appearing in several films and television shows. Van Nutter is best known for his role as CIA agent Felix Leiter in the 1962 James Bond film, "Dr. No". He also appeared in other films such as "The Harder They Fall" and "The Longest Day". Later in his career, he made appearances on popular television shows such as "The Man from U.N.C.L.E." and "Mission: Impossible". In addition to his acting career, Van Nutter was also a successful entrepreneur, owning several businesses in the real estate and finance industries. He passed away at the age of 76 from complications related to bacterial meningitis.
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Michael Vale
Michael Vale (June 28, 1922 Brooklyn-December 24, 2005 New York City) also known as Michael Vael was an American actor.
He was best known for his role as Fred the Baker in the Dunkin' Donuts commercials. Vale played the character for over 15 years, and his catchphrase "Time to make the donuts" became an iconic part of American pop culture. In addition to his work in commercials, Vale had a long career as a stage actor, appearing in numerous Off-Broadway productions throughout the 1950s and 60s. He also appeared in several films, including "The Anderson Tapes" and "Marathon Man". Vale passed away in 2005 at the age of 83 after a long battle with diabetes.
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Billy Hughes
Billy Hughes (November 28, 1948 Los Angeles-December 20, 2005 Alma) a.k.a. Billy E. Hughes, Billy Eugene Hughes, Billy Hughes Jr. or Billy E. Hughes Jr. was an American actor.
He was best known for his role as the character Dick Stensland in the Academy Award-winning film L.A. Confidential (1997). Hughes also appeared in various other films and television shows throughout his career, including The X-Files, NYPD Blue, and Seinfeld. Prior to his career in acting, Hughes served in the United States Marine Corps during the Vietnam War. He later studied at the Stella Adler Academy of Acting in Los Angeles. Hughes died on December 20, 2005, in Alma, Arkansas, due to complications from a heart attack. He was 57 years old.
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John Larch
John Larch (October 4, 1914 Salem-October 16, 2005 Woodland Hills) was an American actor and baseball player.
He served in World War II and after his return, he began a career in acting. His first credited role was in the film "Boomerang!" (1947). He appeared in over 200 movies and 40 TV shows, often playing authority figures such as policemen or judges. Some of his notable film appearances include "Dirty Harry" (1971), "The Amityville Horror" (1979), and "Play Misty for Me" (1971). In addition to acting, he also played professional baseball for the Chicago Cubs and Pittsburgh Pirates.
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Mike Marshall
Mike Marshall (September 13, 1944 Hollywood-June 1, 2005 Caen) also known as Michael Marshall was an American actor. His children are called Sarah Marshall, Samantha Marshall, William Marshall, Deborah Marshall, Peter-Morgan Marshall and Jessie-Lee Marshall.
During his career, Marshall appeared in over 80 films and television shows. Some of his notable roles include the character of Tully in the 1970 movie "MASH" and the character of Col. Edward Gray in the television series "The Time Tunnel". Marshall also worked as a voice actor, lending his voice to characters in animated television shows including "Batman: The Animated Series" and "Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles".
In addition to his acting work, Marshall was also a talented musician. He played several instruments, including the mandolin, violin, and guitar, and was known for his skills in the genre of bluegrass music. Marshall was also an advocate for the use of alternative energy and worked to promote the use of solar power.
Marshall passed away in 2005 at the age of 60 from complications following a heart attack.
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Harrison Young
Harrison Young (March 13, 1930 Port Huron-July 3, 2005 Port Huron) also known as Harrison Richard Young was an American actor.
He began his career in the 1950s and appeared in over 180 films and television series throughout his career. Some of his notable film roles include "Saving Private Ryan", "The Last Starfighter", and "Blade Runner". He also appeared in popular TV shows like "The Twilight Zone", "Bewitched", and "Perry Mason". In addition to his acting career, Harrison Young was a veteran of the Korean War and served as a radio operator in the United States Army. He was also a skilled painter and enjoyed creating artwork in his spare time.
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Myron Healey
Myron Healey (June 8, 1923 Petaluma-December 21, 2005 Simi Valley) a.k.a. Myron Daniel Healey, Myron Healy, Myron D. Healy, Michael Healy, Myron D. Healey or Michael Healey was an American actor, soldier and screenwriter. He had one child, Mikel Healey.
Myron Healey began his acting career in 1947, appearing in small roles in films such as "The Fabulous Texan" and "Riding the California Trail". He went on to play villains and supporting characters in numerous Western films and television shows throughout the 1950s and 1960s. Some of his notable roles include appearances in "Johnny Guitar", "The Violent Men", and "Apache Uprising".
Healey was also a veteran of World War II, serving in the United States Army Air Forces. After his acting career slowed down, he became a successful screenwriter and wrote for several popular TV shows in the 1970s and 1980s, including "Barnaby Jones" and "The Love Boat".
Healey passed away in 2005 at the age of 82, leaving behind a legacy as a talented actor, writer, and veteran.
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Badja Djola
Badja Djola (April 9, 1948 Brooklyn-January 8, 2005 Los Angeles) a.k.a. Badja Medu Djola or Bernard Bradley was an American actor.
He was born in Brooklyn, New York on April 9th, 1948, and began his acting career in the 1970s. Djola appeared in numerous films and television shows throughout his career, including "The Cotton Club," "Mississippi Burning," "The Serpent and the Rainbow," and "Get Shorty." He was also a well-known stage actor and performed in a number of productions on Broadway and off-Broadway. Djola was known for his strong and intense performances and was widely respected in the acting community. He passed away on January 8th, 2005 in Los Angeles at the age of 56.
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