American movie stars died in 2008
Here are 50 famous actors from United States of America died in 2008:
Paul Newman
Paul Newman (January 26, 1925 Shaker Heights-September 26, 2008 Westport) a.k.a. Paul Leonard Newman, King Cool, PL or P.L. Neuman was an American actor, film director, entrepreneur, film producer, businessperson, activist, voice actor, philanthropist and race car driver. His children are called Susan Kendall Newman, Claire Olivia Newman, Stephanie Newman, Melissa Newman, Scott Newman and Nell Newman.
Newman began his acting career in the 1950s and starred in many popular films, including "The Hustler," "Cool Hand Luke," and "Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid." He won numerous awards throughout his career, including an Oscar for his role in "The Color of Money."
In addition to his successful acting career, Newman was also a successful businessman. He co-founded Newman's Own, a food company that donates all after-tax profits to charity. Through Newman's Own, he raised millions of dollars for various causes and organizations.
Newman was also known for his charitable work and activism. He was a strong advocate for social and environmental causes, and established the Hole in the Wall Gang Camps, a non-profit organization providing summer camps for children with serious illnesses.
In his later years, Newman took up racing and became a successful race car driver. He even competed in the 24 Hours of Le Mans, one of the most prestigious endurance races in the world.
Newman was married to actress Joanne Woodward from 1958 until his death in 2008. He is remembered as one of the greatest actors of his time, as well as a philanthropist and social activist.
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Brad Renfro
Brad Renfro (July 25, 1982 Knoxville-January 15, 2008 Los Angeles) also known as Bradley Barron Renfro, Brad Barron Renfro, Pagey, Renfreak or Fro was an American actor. He had one child, Yamato Renfro.
Renfro began his acting career at the age of 11, landing his breakout role in the 1994 film "The Client" alongside Susan Sarandon and Tommy Lee Jones. He went on to star in several other films throughout the 1990s and early 2000s, including "Sleepers," "Apt Pupil," and "Ghost World." Renfro's career was unfortunately cut short when he passed away at just 25 years old due to a drug overdose. Despite his early death, Renfro left a lasting impact on the film industry and is remembered by many as a talented and promising young actor.
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Bernie Mac
Bernie Mac (October 5, 1957 Chicago-August 9, 2008 Chicago) also known as Bernard Jeffrey McCullough, Mac-Man or Bernard Jeffrey "Bernie" McCullough was an American actor, screenwriter, comedian, television producer, voice actor and stand-up comedian. His child is called Je'Niece Childress.
Bernie Mac started his career performing in comedy clubs in his hometown of Chicago before gaining national recognition with his appearance on HBO's Def Comedy Jam in the 1990s. He went on to star in several films and television shows, including the hit comedy series The Bernie Mac Show, which he also created and produced.
Mac's comedic style was known for its blend of wit and honesty, often drawing on his own personal experiences to connect with his audience. He won several awards for his work, including an Emmy for Outstanding Lead Actor in a Comedy Series and a Peabody Award for The Bernie Mac Show.
In addition to his successful career in entertainment, Bernie Mac was actively involved in charitable work, particularly in the fight against sarcoidosis, a disease he was diagnosed with in the early 2000s. He passed away in 2008 at the age of 50 due to complications from pneumonia.
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Ivan Dixon
Ivan Dixon (April 6, 1931 Harlem-March 16, 2008 Charlotte) also known as Ivan Nathaniel Dixon III was an American film director, actor, film producer and stunt double. He had four children, Ivan Nathaniel Dixon IV, N'Gai Christopher Dixon, Doris Nomathande Dixon and Alan Kimara Dixon.
Dixon was most famous for his role as Staff Sgt. James 'Kinch' Kinchloe in the TV series "Hogan's Heroes" which ran from 1965 to 1971. Dixon was also a skilled director and directed episodes of popular TV shows such as "The Waltons," "The Rockford Files," and "Magnum, P.I." In addition to his work in television, Dixon appeared in a number of films including "A Raisin in the Sun" and "Car Wash." Dixon was a civil rights activist and used his platform in Hollywood to promote equality and social justice. He was also an advocate for black actors and fought for more diversity in television and film. Dixon passed away in 2008 at the age of 76.
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Richard Widmark
Richard Widmark (December 26, 1914 Sunrise Township-March 24, 2008 Roxbury) otherwise known as Richard Weedt Widmark or Dick was an American actor and film producer. His child is called Anne Koufax.
Widmark was best known for his roles in film noir, including his breakthrough performance as the villainous Tommy Udo in "Kiss of Death" (1947), which earned him an Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actor. He went on to star in a number of successful films throughout the 1950s and 60s, including "Panic in the Streets" (1950), "Judgment at Nuremberg" (1961), and "Cheyenne Autumn" (1964). Widmark also produced a handful of films, including "Time Limit" (1957), which he also starred in. He was married to writer Jean Hazlewood from 1942 until her death in 1997. Widmark passed away in 2008 at the age of 93.
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Charlton Heston
Charlton Heston (October 4, 1923 Evanston-April 5, 2008 Beverly Hills) also known as John Charles Carter, Chuck, Captured Slave Charlton Heston, Charlton Easton or Charlie was an American actor, film director, political activist and voice actor. He had two children, Fraser Clarke Heston and Holly Ann Heston.
Heston's acting career spanned over five decades and he appeared in more than 100 films, including some of the most iconic films in Hollywood history such as "Ben-Hur" (1959), for which he won the Academy Award for Best Actor, "The Ten Commandments" (1956), "Planet of the Apes" (1968) and "Soylent Green" (1973). In addition to his acting work, Heston was also known for his political activism, serving as the president of the National Rifle Association from 1998 to 2003. He was also a vocal supporter of civil rights, marching with Martin Luther King Jr. and participating in the 1963 March on Washington. Heston passed away in 2008 at the age of 84 from complications related to Alzheimer's disease.
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Robert C. Schnitzer
Robert C. Schnitzer (September 8, 1906 New York City-January 2, 2008 Stamford) also known as Robert Schnitzer was an American actor.
Schnitzer was born to a Jewish family and graduated from Dartmouth College in 1928. He began his career in theater as an actor, director, and producer, eventually founding the Playwrights' Company in 1938 with playwright Maxwell Anderson. He also served in the United States Army during World War II, and was decorated with a Bronze Star Medal for his service.
In addition to his work in theater, Schnitzer also acted in several films, including "Crash Dive" (1943), "The House on 92nd Street" (1945), and "The Day the Earth Stood Still" (1951). He also appeared on television shows such as "Studio One," "The Twilight Zone," and "Playhouse 90."
Later in life, Schnitzer became involved in philanthropy, supporting organizations such as the United Jewish Appeal and the Anti-Defamation League. He lived to be 101 years old, and was one of the last surviving members of the Playwrights' Company.
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Gene Galusha
Gene Galusha (August 20, 1941 Schenectady-August 6, 2008 Albany) otherwise known as Eugene Belden Galusha, Eugene B. Galusha or Eugene B. “Gene” Galusha was an American actor and voice actor.
He began his acting career on the stage appearing in various theatrical productions in New York City. Throughout his career, Galusha appeared in over 70 films and television series. He is best known for his voice work on the animated television series "The Transformers" where he voiced several characters including Scavenger, Metroplex, and Primacron. Galusha also provided voices for "G.I. Joe", "Jem and the Holograms", and "Robotech". In addition to his acting career, Galusha was an accomplished artist and his paintings and sculptures were exhibited in galleries across the United States.
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David Groh
David Groh (May 21, 1939 Brooklyn-February 12, 2008 Los Angeles) a.k.a. David Lawrence Groh was an American actor. He had one child, Spencer Groh.
David Groh was best known for his role as Joe Gerard in the popular television series "Rhoda" which aired from 1974 to 1978. He also appeared in other television shows such as "Love, American Style," "The Twilight Zone," and "Law & Order." In addition to his television work, Groh had roles in films like "The Rose," "The Lemon Sisters," and "The Unseen." Before pursuing acting, he worked as a cab driver and a sales representative for a greeting card company. Groh was married three times including to actress Kristin Andersen, with whom he had his son Spencer. He passed away in 2008 from kidney cancer.
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Richard Genelle
Richard Genelle (October 12, 1961 New York City-December 30, 2008 Corona) also known as Richard Michael Genelle was an American actor and entrepreneur.
He was best known for his role as Ernie "The Machine" in the hit children's television show "Power Rangers". Genelle appeared on the show from 1993 to 1996, and also wrote several episodes. Prior to his acting career, he owned and operated a successful bakery in New York City. In addition to his work in entertainment and business, Genelle was also an advocate for the environment and worked on several conservation projects throughout his life. Sadly, he passed away in 2008 at the age of 47.
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Sydney Pollack
Sydney Pollack (July 1, 1934 Lafayette-May 26, 2008 Pacific Palisades) also known as Sydney Irwin Pollack, Sidney Pollack or Sidney Pollock was an American film producer, film director, actor, television producer, television director and voice actor. His children are called Rebecca Pollack, Rachel Pollack and Steven Pollack.
Pollack began his career in the entertainment industry as an actor, appearing in numerous television shows and films in the 1950s and 60s. He then transitioned to directing and producing with films such as "They Shoot Horses, Don't They?" and "The Firm." Pollack's work often explored political and social issues, with films such as "Out of Africa" and "Three Days of the Condor" earning critical acclaim. In addition to his work in film, Pollack also produced and directed numerous television series, including the HBO series "The Sopranos." He won numerous awards throughout his career, including two Academy Awards for Best Picture and Best Director for "Out of Africa." In 2002, he was honored with the Lifetime Achievement Award by the Directors Guild of America.
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Harvey Korman
Harvey Korman (February 15, 1927 Chicago-May 29, 2008 Los Angeles) a.k.a. Harvey Herschel Korman or Mr.Happy Go-Lucky was an American actor, comedian, television director, television producer and voice actor. He had four children, Christopher Korman, Laura Korman, Maria Korman and Katherine Korman.
Korman began his career in entertainment as a voice actor working for radio stations in the Chicago area before transitioning to television. He gained widespread recognition for his work on "The Carol Burnett Show," which he starred in for over a decade and won four Emmy Awards for his performances. Korman also appeared in a number of films, including "Blazing Saddles," "High Anxiety," and "History of the World, Part I," often collaborating with director Mel Brooks. Later in his career, Korman continued to work in television, appearing in various series and made-for-TV movies. He was known for his comedic timing and ability to improvise, as well as his recognizable voice which was used in numerous animated programs.
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John Phillip Law
John Phillip Law (September 7, 1937 Hollywood-May 13, 2008 Los Angeles) a.k.a. John Philip Law was an American actor. He had one child, Dawn Law.
Law was born in Los Angeles, California and raised in a show-business family. He began his acting career in the early 1960s, appearing in a number of low-budget films before landing his breakthrough role in the Italian science fiction film "Barbarella" (1968) alongside Jane Fonda. He went on to appear in a number of successful films throughout the 1970s, including "The Russians Are Coming, The Russians Are Coming" (1966), "Death Rides a Horse" (1967), and "The Golden Voyage of Sinbad" (1973). In addition to his film work, Law also appeared on stage and television, including guest appearances on popular shows such as "The Love Boat" and "Fantasy Island". He continued to act in films and TV shows throughout the 1980s and 1990s before retiring from acting in the early 2000s. Law passed away in 2008 at the age of 70 from pancreatic cancer.
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Otto Felix
Otto Felix (December 31, 1942 Pitsburg-December 13, 2008) was an American photographer, teacher, actor, author and screenwriter.
He was known for his striking black-and-white photography, which often focused on street scenes and architecture. After studying art at several universities, Felix moved to New York City in the 1960s to pursue his photography career. He quickly made a name for himself in the art world and was commissioned to shoot portraits of many famous musicians and actors.
In addition to his photography work, Felix also acted in several films and television shows throughout the 1970s and 1980s. He was also an accomplished author and screenwriter, with several of his works being published and adapted for film.
Later in life, Felix became a teacher and mentor, teaching photography and art at schools and workshops around the world. He continued to produce and exhibit his own work until his death in 2008. His legacy lives on through his stunning photographs and the countless artists he inspired throughout his lifetime.
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Louis Guss
Louis Guss (January 4, 1918 New York City-September 29, 2008 New York City) otherwise known as Louie Guss or Lou Guss was an American actor. His child is called Simeon Guss.
Louis Guss was born and raised in New York City. He began his acting career in the 1950s, appearing in a variety of television shows, movies, and plays. He was best known for his work in movies such as "The Godfather" and "The Godfather: Part II." In addition to his acting work, Guss was also a talented musician, playing the trumpet and the drums. He was a regular performer at jazz clubs in New York City. Guss passed away in 2008 at the age of 90.
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Jeff MacKay
Jeff MacKay (October 20, 1948 Dallas-August 22, 2008 Tulsa) also known as Jeffery Neill MacKay was an American actor.
He was best known for his roles in television shows such as Magnum, P.I. where he played the character of "Mac" from 1980 to 1988. He also appeared in other popular shows like JAG, Tales of the Gold Monkey and Black Sheep Squadron. MacKay also had a successful career in film and appeared in movies such as Dirty Work, Switchback and The Running Man. Prior to his acting career, MacKay served in the United States Navy during the Vietnam War. After his death, he was buried with honors at Arlington National Cemetery.
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Gil Stratton
Gil Stratton (June 2, 1922 Brooklyn-October 11, 2008 Toluca Lake) also known as Gil Stratton Jr. was an American actor and sports commentator.
Stratton began his career as a child actor appearing in films such as "The Way Ahead" and "Billy the Kid". He later transitioned to being a successful sports broadcaster, covering events such as the Olympic Games and World Series. Stratton is perhaps best known for his role in the film "Stalag 17", in which he played the character Cookie. In addition to his acting and broadcasting career, Stratton was also an accomplished writer and authored several books. He passed away in 2008 at the age of 86.
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Christopher Allport
Christopher Allport (June 17, 1947 Boston-January 25, 2008 Wrightwood) also known as Alexander Wise Allport Jr. or Chris Allport was an American actor. His children are called Andrew Allport and Mason Allport.
Christopher Allport began his acting career in the late 1960s, and appeared in several films and television shows throughout his career. Some of his notable roles include playing Tim McGinnis in the series "The Bob Newhart Show," and appearing in films such as "To Live and Die in L.A." and "Jack Frost." Allport was also an accomplished voice actor, and lent his voice to several popular video games including "Max Payne" and "Rainbow Six."
In addition to his acting career, Allport was also an accomplished playwright and screenwriter. His play "The Pied Piper of Hamlin" was produced by Joseph Papp at the Public Theater in New York City in 1989. Allport also wrote several screenplays, including the film "The Back Lot Murders," which was released in 2002.
Tragically, Christopher Allport died in a snowboarding accident in California's San Gabriel Mountains in 2008. He was 60 years old at the time of his death. Despite his untimely passing, Allport's work continues to be celebrated by fans and colleagues in the entertainment industry to this day.
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Jack Eagle
Jack Eagle (January 15, 1926 Brooklyn-January 10, 2008 New York City) was an American actor. He had one child, Ian Eagle.
Jack Eagle began his career as an actor in the 1950s, appearing in various TV shows and films. He was known for his performances in movies such as "The Glory Guys" (1965) and "The Goodbye People" (1984). He also appeared in TV shows such as "The Twilight Zone" and "Kojak". Eagle was a veteran of the United States Army, having served during World War II.
In addition to his acting career, Eagle was also a playwright and screenwriter. He wrote several plays including "The Eden Tree" and "Pick Up Point", which were produced off-Broadway in the 1960s. Eagle also wrote screenplays for several films including "The Sporting Club" (1971) and "The Trial of the Moke" (1978).
Eagle's son, Ian Eagle, followed in his father's footsteps and became a well-known sportscaster for CBS Sports and the Brooklyn Nets.
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Bobby Anderson
Bobby Anderson (March 6, 1933 Hollywood-June 6, 2008 Palm Springs) also known as Robert Anderson, Bobbie Anderson, Robert J. Bobby Anderson, Bob Anderson, Robert James Anderson, Bob or Robert J. Anderson was an American actor, film producer and television producer. His children are called Heidi Anderson-Robinson, John Anderson, Joe Anderson, Kathleen Inman, Deborah Gutierrez and Robert J. Anderson Jr..
Bobby Anderson started his career as a child actor, appearing in over 250 films throughout the 1930s and 1940s. He was known for his roles in classic films such as "It's A Wonderful Life" (1946) and "The Bishop's Wife" (1948). As he grew older, Anderson transitioned into producing, working on popular television shows including "The Donna Reed Show" and "The Andy Griffith Show". In addition to his work in entertainment, Anderson was also involved in philanthropy, supporting various charities and organizations throughout his lifetime. He passed away in 2008 at the age of 75.
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John Furlong
John Furlong (April 14, 1933 Albany-June 23, 2008 Nashville) also known as John Thomas Furlong or John Purlong was an American actor.
Furlong appeared in a variety of films and TV shows throughout his career, including "The Dark Half," "The Dukes of Hazzard," and "ER." He was also a prolific voice actor, lending his voice to characters in cartoons such as "Batman: The Animated Series," "X-Men: Evolution," and "The Magic School Bus." In addition to his acting work, Furlong was an accomplished musician and songwriter, playing guitar and singing in a band called The Johnny Furlong Band. He passed away at the age of 75 due to complications from a stroke.
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Paul Benedict
Paul Benedict (September 17, 1938 Silver City-December 1, 2008 Martha's Vineyard) was an American actor.
He was best known for playing the role of Harry Bentley on the hit sitcom "The Jeffersons" from 1975 to 1985. Benedict also appeared in numerous other television shows and films throughout his career, including "Sesame Street", "All in the Family", "Guiding Light", "The Goodbye Girl", and "The Addams Family". In addition to his work as an actor, Benedict was also a director and playwright. He had a passion for theater and often performed in productions both on stage and off-Broadway. Benedict passed away at the age of 70 from natural causes.
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Christian Brando
Christian Brando (May 11, 1958 Los Angeles-January 26, 2008 Los Angeles) otherwise known as Christian Devi Brando, Gary Brown or Chris Brando was an American actor and welder. His child is called Michael Brando.
Christian Brando was the eldest son of famed actor Marlon Brando and actress Anna Kashfi. He grew up in Hollywood, but as a teenager, he dropped out of high school and moved to Oregon to work as a logger.
In 1990, Christian Brando made headlines after pleading guilty to manslaughter in the shooting death of his half-sister's boyfriend. He was sentenced to 10 years in prison but served only five, after his conviction was overturned on appeal.
After his release from prison, Brando struggled with drug and alcohol addiction. He later became a dedicated welder and worked in that field until his passing in 2008 at the age of 49 due to pneumonia.
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Kermit Love
Kermit Love (August 7, 1916 Spring Lake-June 21, 2008 Poughkeepsie) otherwise known as Kermit Ernest Hollingshead Love was an American actor, puppeteer and costume designer.
He was best known for creating and designing the character of Big Bird on the popular children's television show, Sesame Street. Love was also a puppet designer and builder for Jim Henson's The Muppets and worked on various films such as The Muppets Take Manhattan and The Great Muppet Caper. In addition to his puppetry work, Love was a successful Broadway costume designer, notably designing costumes for the original production of Candide. Love's legacy in the puppetry world was commemorated in 2009 when he was posthumously inducted into the National Puppetry Hall of Fame.
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Jim McKay
Jim McKay (September 24, 1921 Philadelphia-June 7, 2008 Monkton) also known as James Kenneth McManus was an American journalist, actor, sports commentator, announcer and screenwriter. He had two children, Sean McManus and Mary Guba.
Jim McKay was best known for hosting ABC's Wide World of Sports from 1961 to 1998. He was also the anchor for ABC's coverage of the Olympic Games from 1960 to 1988. In addition to his work in sports broadcasting, McKay also worked as a journalist and war correspondent.
During his career, McKay received numerous awards for his work in journalism and sports broadcasting, including the George Polk Award and the Sports Lifetime Achievement Award. He was inducted into the Television Hall of Fame in 1991.
McKay passed away in 2008 at the age of 86 due to complications from Parkinson's disease.
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Jerry Reed
Jerry Reed (March 20, 1937 Atlanta-September 1, 2008 Brentwood) also known as Jerry Reed Hubbard or Reed, Jerry was an American actor, musician, singer-songwriter and guitarist. His children are called Charlotte Elaine Reed Stewart and Seidina Ann Reed Hinesley.
Jerry Reed began playing the guitar at a young age and was known for his signature fingerpicking style. He gained fame during the 1970s with hits like "Amos Moses" and "When You're Hot, You're Hot." In addition to his successful music career, Reed also found success as an actor, appearing in films like Smokey and the Bandit and The Waterboy.
Throughout his career, Reed collaborated with many famous musicians, including Chet Atkins and Elvis Presley. He was also a skilled songwriter and penned hit songs for other artists, such as Brenda Lee's "The World Needs a Melody."
Reed's catalog of work earned him numerous accolades, including a Grammy for his instrumental "Smokey and the Bandit" and induction into the Country Music Hall of Fame. Despite his success, Reed remained known for his down-to-earth personality and love for family and friends.
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Mel Brandt
Mel Brandt (June 18, 1919 Brooklyn-March 14, 2008) also known as Melvin Brandt was an American actor.
Brandt started his career in the 1940s as a radio announcer and voice actor. He became a well-known voice in both radio and television commercials, and lent his voice to popular animated cartoons such as Tom and Jerry and Looney Tunes. He also appeared in over 70 films and TV shows, including memorable roles in The Twilight Zone, Get Smart, and Batman. In addition to his acting career, Brandt served in the US Army during World War II and was awarded the Purple Heart. He was also a member of the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences.
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Larry Haines
Larry Haines (August 3, 1918 Mount Vernon-July 17, 2008 Delray Beach) also known as Larry Hecht, A. Larry Haines or Larry S. Raines was an American actor. He had one child, Debora Haines.
Haines had a prolific career in both television and film. He was best known for his roles in daytime soap operas, including "Search for Tomorrow," "The Guiding Light," and "Another World." Haines won the Soap Opera Digest Award for Outstanding Villain in 1988 for his portrayal of Stu Bergman in "Another World."
Haines also appeared in several films, including "The Odd Couple II" and "The Bonfire of the Vanities." He made numerous television appearances, with roles in shows such as "The Twilight Zone," "The Outer Limits," and "The Ed Sullivan Show."
Aside from his acting career, Haines was an accomplished singer and sang professionally in nightclubs before pursuing acting. He served in the Army during World War II and was awarded the Purple Heart after being wounded in combat.
Haines retired from acting in the late 1990s and lived out the remainder of his life in Florida. He passed away in 2008 at the age of 89.
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Isaac Hayes
Isaac Hayes (August 20, 1942 Covington-August 10, 2008 Memphis) a.k.a. Isaac Hays, Isaak Hayes, Isac Heyes, Chef, Isaac Lee Hayes, Isaac Lee Hayes, Jr., The Black Moses, Ike, Isaac, Jr., Isaac Lee Hayes Jr., Isaac Hayes Jr. or Isaac Hayes, Jr. was an American singer, record producer, singer-songwriter, actor, keyboard player, songwriter, musician, voice actor, film score composer and music arranger. He had eleven children, Isaac Hayes III, Heather Hayes, Veronica Hayes, Nana Kwadjo Hayes, Jackie Hayes, Felicia Hayes, Melanie Hayes, Nikki Hayes, Lili Hayes, Darius Hayes and Vincent Hayes.
Born in Tennessee in 1942, Isaac Hayes was known for his groundbreaking work in soul music during the 1960s and 1970s. He initially gained fame as a keyboardist and composer for Stax Records, where he wrote hits such as "Soul Man" and "Hold On, I'm Comin'" for Sam & Dave. He then went on to launch a successful solo career, recording classic albums such as "Hot Buttered Soul," "Black Moses," and "Shaft."
Hayes was not only a talented musician, but also a pioneer in the world of film and television. He won an Oscar for his iconic soundtrack to the 1971 film "Shaft," which included the hit song "Theme from Shaft." He also provided the voice of Chef on the animated series "South Park."
Throughout his career, Hayes was known for his deep and resonant voice, elaborate arrangements, and socially conscious lyrics. He was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2002 and continued to perform and record music until his death from a stroke in 2008.
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Levi Stubbs
Levi Stubbs (June 6, 1936 Detroit-October 17, 2008 Detroit) also known as Levi Stubbles, Stubbs, Levi or Levi Stubbs Jr was an American singer, actor and musician.
He is most famous as the lead vocalist of the Motown group The Four Tops, which he co-founded in 1953. With his powerful and emotive baritone voice, Stubbs became one of the most identifiable voices in the history of popular music, and The Four Tops became one of the most successful and enduring groups of the 20th century. Some of their hit songs include "Reach Out I'll Be There," "Bernadette," and "Ain't No Woman (Like the One I've Got)." In addition to his work with The Four Tops, Stubbs also had success as a solo artist and as a voice actor in various animated TV shows and movies. He was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame as a member of The Four Tops in 1990.
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Julius Carry
Julius Carry (March 12, 1952 Chicago-August 19, 2008 Los Angeles) also known as Julius J. Carry III, Julius J Carry Bill, Julius Carry III or Julius J. Carry was an American actor.
He began his acting career in the late 1970s and appeared in various television shows including "The White Shadow", "The Greatest American Hero", and "Murder, She Wrote". Carry is perhaps best known for his role as the demon lord Sardo Numspa in the 1986 movie "The Golden Child" where he acted alongside Eddie Murphy. He also appeared in the movie "The Last Dragon" as the main villain, Sho'nuff. Carry continued to act in television and film throughout the 1990s and 2000s, and worked as a voice actor as well. He passed away in 2008 at the age of 56 from pancreatic cancer.
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Robert Prosky
Robert Prosky (December 13, 1930 Manayunk-December 8, 2008 Capitol Hill) also known as Robert Porzuczek, Robert J. Prosky, Robert Joseph Porzuczek, Robert Jozef Porzuczek, Prosky or Robert Józef Porzuczek was an American actor and voice actor. He had three children, Andy Prosky, Stefan Prosky and John Prosky.
Prosky began his acting career in the early 1950s and appeared in numerous television shows and films throughout his career. Some of his notable film roles include "Christine," "Broadcast News," and "Dead Man Walking." He was also a well-known stage actor and appeared in numerous Broadway productions, including "Glengarry Glen Ross" and "A View from the Bridge."
In addition to his acting work, Prosky was also a professor of Theatre Arts at American University in Washington, D.C. He was known for his warm and affable personality and was a beloved figure in the D.C. arts community.
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Van Johnson
Van Johnson (August 25, 1916 Newport-December 12, 2008 Nyack) also known as Charles Van Johnson, Charles Van Dell Johnson, King of Dinner Theater or The Voiceless Sinatra was an American actor, dancer and singer. He had one child, Schuyler Johnson.
Van Johnson was born in Newport, Rhode Island in 1916. He grew up in a family of five and attended a local school in Rhode Island. After graduating from high school, he moved to New York City to pursue a career in entertainment. His first break came when he was cast in a Broadway production in the late 1930s. He then started appearing in movies in the early 1940s and quickly became a popular leading man, starring in films such as "A Guy Named Joe" (1943) and "Thirty Seconds Over Tokyo" (1944).
During his career, Johnson also served in the United States Army during World War II. After the war, he returned to Hollywood and continued to act, appearing in movies such as "The Caine Mutiny" (1954) and "The Last Time I Saw Paris" (1954). In addition to his acting career, Johnson was also known for his singing and dancing abilities, and often performed on stage and in television specials.
Later in life, Johnson continued to work in the entertainment industry, appearing in television shows and movies throughout the 1970s and 1980s. He passed away in Nyack, New York in 2008 at the age of 92.
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Sam Bottoms
Sam Bottoms (October 17, 1955 Santa Barbara-December 16, 2008 Los Angeles) also known as Samuel John Bottoms, Samuel Bottoms, Samuel John "Sam" Bottoms or Sam was an American actor and film producer. He had two children, Io Bottoms and Clara Bottoms.
Sam Bottoms was best known for his role as Lance Johnson in the Vietnam War epic "Apocalypse Now". He also appeared in other notable films such as "The Last Picture Show", "Seabiscuit" and "Islands in the Stream". Bottoms co-produced the film "The Sandlot" and directed the film "The Unsaid". Outside of his acting career, Bottoms was passionate about horseback riding and owned a ranch in Texas where he trained horses. He was diagnosed with brain cancer in 2007 and passed away the following year at the age of 53.
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Manuel Benitez
Manuel Benitez (September 28, 1969 Coral Gables-December 23, 2008 El Monte) also known as Mark Everett, Mike Evers or Manuel Velasco was an American actor. His child is called Benjamin Everett.
Manuel Benitez began his acting career in the early 90s and became well-known for his roles in several hit TV shows and movies. He appeared in over 40 films and television shows during his career, including popular programs like The X-Files, CSI: Miami, ER, and Sons of Anarchy.
In addition to his work in front of the camera, Benitez was also an accomplished producer and writer. He created and produced several television shows, including the popular crime drama Cold Case.
Sadly, Benitez passed away in 2008 at the age of 39 due to complications from surgery. Despite his untimely death, he left behind a lasting legacy in the entertainment industry and is remembered for his talent and contributions to the arts.
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George Carlin
George Carlin (May 12, 1937 Manhattan-June 22, 2008 Santa Monica) also known as George Denis Patrick Carlin, 乔治·卡林, Georgie Porgie or Curious George was an American actor, television producer, screenwriter, voice actor, comedian, writer and film producer. He had one child, Kelly Carlin-McCall.
Carlin was known for his counterculture and observational humor which often tackled controversial subjects such as politics, religion and language. He started his career as a radio DJ before transitioning into stand-up comedy in the 1960s. Carlin's comedy albums, including "Class Clown" and "Occupation: Foole," were critically acclaimed and helped cement his place as a comedic icon.
Beyond his comedy work, Carlin also acted in movies such as "Bill and Ted's Excellent Adventure" and "Dogma," and lent his voice to animated films like "Cars" and "Tarzan." He was also the host of the first season of the television show "Saturday Night Live" in 1975.
Carlin was known for his public advocacy of free speech and was a frequent critic of censorship. He received multiple Grammy Awards for his comedy albums and was posthumously awarded the Mark Twain Prize for American Humor in 2008. Today, he is remembered as one of the most influential and innovative comedians in history.
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Roy Scheider
Roy Scheider (November 10, 1932 Orange-February 10, 2008 Little Rock) a.k.a. Roy Richard Scheider, Roy R. Scheider or Roy Schneider was an American actor. His children are called Christian Verrier Scheider, Molly Mae Scheider and Maximillia Connelly Lord.
Born and raised in New Jersey, Scheider studied at both Rutgers University and Franklin and Marshall College before deciding to pursue acting. He began his career in theater before transitioning to film in the 1960s. Scheider's breakout role was in the 1971 film "The French Connection" where he played detective Buddy Russo alongside Gene Hackman. He received critical acclaim and an Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actor for his performance.
Scheider went on to star in several other iconic films, including "Jaws" (1975) as police chief Martin Brody, "Marathon Man" (1976), and "All That Jazz" (1979), for which he earned another Academy Award nomination for Best Actor. Throughout his career, he also appeared in numerous television shows and made-for-TV movies.
In addition to his acting career, Scheider was a dedicated environmental activist and served as the chairman of the advisory board for the Hudson River Foundation for Science and Environmental Research. He also narrated several environmental documentaries, including "The Secret Sea" (1995) and "Greenpeace - Years of Decision" (1982).
Scheider was married three times and had three children. He passed away in 2008 at the age of 75 due to complications from multiple myeloma.
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Jud Taylor
Jud Taylor (February 25, 1932 New York City-August 6, 2008 New York City) also known as Judson Taylor, Alan Smithee or Judson "Jud" Taylor was an American actor, television director, television producer, film producer and film director.
He began his career as an actor in the 1950s, appearing in films such as "The Black Shield of Falworth" and "Al Capone." However, he is best known for his work as a television director and producer, working on shows such as "The Fugitive," "Star Trek," and "The Twilight Zone." Taylor was also a founding member of the Directors Guild of America, and served as its president from 1987-1989. In addition to his work in television, he directed several films, including "The Organization" and "Summer of '42." Taylor was a highly respected figure in the entertainment industry, known for his professionalism and talent.
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George Furth
George Furth (December 14, 1932 Chicago-August 11, 2008 Santa Monica) also known as George Schweinfurth was an American actor, playwright, writer, screenwriter and librettist.
He is best known for his collaborations with composer Stephen Sondheim on the musicals "Company", "Merrily We Roll Along", and "Sunday in the Park with George". Furth began his career as an actor, appearing in films such as "Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid" and "Blazing Saddles". However, he soon turned to playwriting and wrote several successful plays, including "Twigs" and "The Supporting Cast". He later worked as a screenwriter, writing films such as "The Secret of My Success" and "My Best Friend's Wedding". Furth was also a talented librettist and wrote the books for many musicals, including "Getting Away with Murder" and "The Act". He was nominated for Tony Awards for his work on "Company" and "Twigs". Despite his success in the entertainment industry, Furth remained a private person and rarely gave interviews.
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Mel Ferrer
Mel Ferrer (August 25, 1917 Elberon-June 2, 2008 Santa Barbara) also known as Melchor Ferrer, Melchor Gastón Ferrer, Melchor G. Ferrer or Melchor Gaston Ferrer was an American actor, film producer, film director and television director. His children are called Sean Hepburn Ferrer, Mark Young Ferrer, Mela Ferrer, Christopher Ferrer and Pepa Phillippa Ferrer.
Mel Ferrer was born in Elberon, New Jersey to a Cuban father and an Irish-American mother. He began his career as a stage actor before transitioning to film in the 1940s. He appeared in over 50 films, including "Lili", "The Longest Day", and "War and Peace".
In addition to acting, Ferrer was also a successful film producer and director. He produced films such as "Wait Until Dark" and "Green Mansions", and directed the film "The Girl of the Golden West". He also had numerous television directing credits, including episodes of "Ironside" and "Star Trek".
Ferrer was married five times, including to actress Audrey Hepburn from 1954 to 1968. They had one son together, Sean Hepburn Ferrer. Ferrer passed away in 2008 in Santa Barbara, California at the age of 90.
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Mitch Mullany
Mitch Mullany (September 20, 1968 Oakland-May 25, 2008 Los Angeles) also known as Mitchell Mullany was an American screenwriter, actor and comedian.
Mitch Mullany began his career as a stand-up comedian, performing on popular shows like "The Tonight Show with Jay Leno" and "The Late Late Show with Craig Kilborn". He made his acting debut in the late 1990s with small roles in TV shows like "Dharma & Greg" and "The Wayans Bros.".
Mullany's breakthrough role came in the early 2000s when he starred in the sitcom "Nick Freno: Licensed Teacher" as teacher Nick Freno. The show lasted for two seasons and received critical acclaim for Mullany's performance.
In addition to his acting career, Mullany also worked as a screenwriter, penning episodes for shows like "According to Jim" and "The Geena Davis Show". He continued to perform stand-up comedy throughout his career and was known for his energetic and irreverent style.
Tragically, Mullany passed away in 2008 at the age of 39 due to complications from diabetes. He is survived by his wife and two children.
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Nathan Davis
Nathan Davis (May 22, 1917 Chicago-October 15, 2008 Chicago) a.k.a. Nate Davis was an American actor. His children are called Andrew Davis, Richard Peter Davis and Jo Ellen Friedman.
Throughout his career, Nathan Davis appeared in over 40 films and television shows, including "The Blues Brothers," "Malcolm X," and "Amityville II: The Possession." He also received critical acclaim for his stage work, earning a Joseph Jefferson Award for his performance in "Home" and an Obie Award for his role in "The Great White Hope." Davis was also a teacher and mentor, serving as a faculty member at the Theater School at DePaul University in Chicago and the University of Illinois at Chicago. In addition, he was a founding member of the city's Black Ensemble Theater. Nathan Davis passed away in 2008 at the age of 91.
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Stanley Kamel
Stanley Kamel (January 1, 1943 South River-April 8, 2008 Hollywood Hills) also known as Stanely Kamel, Stan Kamel or Stanley Camel was an American actor.
Kamel was best known for his roles in popular TV series, including playing the character of Dr. Charles Kroger in the hit show "Monk" and recurring character Tony Marchette in "Beverly Hills, 90210." He began his career in the late 1960s and appeared in a number of TV shows and films over the years. Aside from acting, Kamel was also a talented classical pianist and studied music at the Juilliard School in New York City. He tragically passed away in 2008 at the age of 65 from a heart attack.
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John Michael King
John Michael King (May 13, 1926 New York City-August 17, 2008) was an American actor.
He began his acting career in the theater, appearing in several Broadway productions in the 1950s. King also worked in television, with guest appearances on popular shows such as "The Twilight Zone" and "Perry Mason". He is perhaps best known for his role as the villainous henchman Red Grant in the 1963 James Bond film "From Russia with Love". King also acted in several other films throughout his career, including "The Cincinnati Kid" and "Judgment at Nuremberg". He passed away in 2008 at the age of 82.
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Kwan Hi Lim
Kwan Hi Lim (July 11, 1922 Maui-December 22, 2008 Honolulu) was an American actor and attorney at law.
Kwan Hi Lim was best known for his roles in cult classic films such as "Enter the Dragon" and "Big Trouble in Little China". He was also a trained lawyer and practiced law for many years before pursuing a career in acting. Lim was one of the few Asian-American actors to have a strong presence in Hollywood during the 1960s and 1970s, and he was recognized for his contribution to the film industry with a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame in 1994. In addition to his acting career, Lim was also involved in several community organizations, including serving as the president of the Chinatown Lions Club in Hawaii. He is remembered as a trailblazer for Asian-American representation in Hollywood and as a dedicated public servant.
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Perry Lopez
Perry Lopez (July 22, 1931 New York City-February 14, 2008 Beverly Hills) also known as Julio López or Perry López was an American actor.
Lopez began his acting career in the late 1950s and appeared in over 70 films and television shows throughout his career. Some of his most notable roles include Louie in "Chinatown" (1974) and Johnson in "The Great White Hope" (1970). He also appeared in popular TV shows such as "The Twilight Zone," "Gunsmoke," and "The Invaders." Lopez was known for his versatility as an actor and often played roles of different ethnicities. He was also a founding member of the Los Angeles-based theatre group, the Latino Theatre Company. Lopez passed away in 2008 at the age of 76, leaving behind a legacy of memorable film and television performances.
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Brad Sullivan
Brad Sullivan (November 18, 1931 Chicago-December 31, 2008 Manhattan) also known as Bradford E. Sullivan or Bradford P. Sullivan was an American actor and soldier.
He served in the Korean War before pursuing a career in acting. Sullivan appeared in over 45 films, television shows, and stage productions, including the original Broadway production of "The Sting." He received critical acclaim for his performance as Tom Reagan in the off-Broadway production of "Miller's Crossing." Sullivan also made appearances in popular TV series, such as "Law and Order," "Homicide: Life on the Street," and "The Sopranos." In addition to his acting career, Sullivan was a skilled pilot and a licensed electrician.
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Robert Ginnaven
Robert Ginnaven (January 1, 1937 Memphis-February 17, 2008 Little Rock) a.k.a. Robert "Bob" Ginnaven, Robert Addison Ginnaven, Jr., Bob Ginnavin, Bob Ginnaven, Bob or Robert Addison Ginnaven Jr. was an American actor. He had three children, Robert Addison Ginnaven, III, Elizabeth Leigh Ginnaven and Christopher Crews Ginnaven.
Ginnaven began his acting career in the late 1950s and appeared in a number of movies and TV series throughout his career. Some of his notable film credits include "The Graduate" (1967), "The Boston Strangler" (1968), and "The Law Enforcement Guide to Satanic Cults" (1994). On TV, he appeared in a variety of popular shows such as "The Twilight Zone," "Star Trek," and "Knots Landing." Ginnaven was also a member of the cast for the first season of the adventure drama series "Adventures in Paradise." In addition to his acting work, Ginnaven was a writer and a director, and he earned critical acclaim for his contributions to the entertainment industry. He passed away in 2008 at the age of 71 after a battle with cancer.
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Dennis Letts
Dennis Letts (September 5, 1934 Oklahoma City-February 22, 2008 Tulsa) was an American actor, soldier, editor and teacher. He had three children, Dana Letts, Shawn Letts and Tracy Letts.
Dennis Letts was most renowned for his performances in theatres, where he appeared in several productions around the United States. He was also a teacher at Southern Methodist University where he taught acting to students. Prior to his career in the entertainment industry, Letts served in the United States Air Force during the Korean War. He then went on to work as an editor for a publishing company before he pursued his passion for acting. Letts was a source of inspiration for his son Tracy Letts, who followed in his footsteps and became a prominent playwright and actor himself. Dennis Letts's legacy lives on not only through his children, but in the numerous productions that he contributed to during his career.
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Lionel Mark Smith
Lionel Mark Smith (February 5, 1946 Chicago-February 13, 2008 Inglewood) also known as Lionel M. Smith or Lionel Smith was an American actor and voice actor.
Smith had a prolific career spanning over three decades, appearing in numerous films, television shows, and stage productions. He made his acting debut in the 1972 film "The Spook Who Sat by the Door" and went on to have roles in popular films such as "Magnolia" and "The Jerky Boys".
On television, Smith had recurring roles in shows like "The X-Files" and "ER" and appeared in guest spots on many other series. He was also a talented voice actor, lending his voice to animated series like "The Cleveland Show" and "The Wild Thornberrys".
Aside from his work in the entertainment industry, Smith was also an activist for social justice causes. He was involved with the Black Panthers in the 1960s and remained committed to issues of race and inequality throughout his life.
Smith passed away in 2008 at the age of 62 due to heart failure. He left a lasting legacy as a talented actor and advocate for social change.
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