American movie stars died in 2011
Here are 50 famous actors from United States of America died in 2011:
Gino Cimoli
Gino Cimoli (December 18, 1929 San Francisco-February 12, 2011 Roseville) also known as Gino Nicholas Cimoli was an American baseball player and actor.
Cimoli began his career in baseball with the Brooklyn Dodgers in 1956, where he was part of their World Series championship team. He was later traded to the St. Louis Cardinals before joining the Pittsburgh Pirates, where he had one of his best seasons in 1960 as he helped lead the team to another World Series championship.
After retiring from baseball in 1965, Cimoli pursued a career in acting, appearing in several movies and TV shows. He had roles in films such as "Love in a Goldfish Bowl" and "The Thousand Plane Raid", as well as on television shows like "The Beverly Hillbillies" and "Perry Mason".
Cimoli was also known for his philanthropic work, including his efforts to help establish the Major League Baseball Players Alumni Association. He passed away in 2011 at the age of 81.
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Peter Falk
Peter Falk (September 16, 1927 New York City-June 23, 2011 Beverly Hills) a.k.a. Peter Faulk or Peter Michael Falk was an American actor, television producer, artist, certified public accountant and visual artist. His children are called Jackie Falk and Catherine Falk.
Falk is perhaps best known for playing the role of the detective Columbo in the television series of the same name from 1968 to 2003. He received four Emmy Awards for his performance as Columbo and was widely regarded as one of the greatest character actors in television history. Falk's film career also included notable roles in movies such as "The Princess Bride," "Murder by Death," and "It's a Mad, Mad, Mad, Mad World." In addition to his acting career, Falk was a talented painter, and his artwork has been exhibited in galleries around the world. He was diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease in 2007 and died from complications of the disease in June 2011 at the age of 83.
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Jackie Cooper
Jackie Cooper (September 15, 1922 Los Angeles-May 3, 2011 Santa Monica) also known as John Cooper Jr., Alan Smithee, Our Gang, America's Boy, Freddie, Leonard, John "Jackie" Cooper, Jr. or John Cooper was an American actor, television producer, television director, film director, military officer and race car driver. He had four children, Jackie Cooper Jr., Cristina Cooper, Russell Cooper and Julie Cooper.
Cooper gained fame as a child actor during the 1930s, starring in the "Our Gang" series of short films and receiving an Academy Award nomination at the age of 9 for his role in "Skippy." As he grew older, Cooper continued to act in films such as "The Champ" and "Treasure Island," and later transitioned to television where he produced and directed shows such as "M*A*S*H" and "The White Shadow."
During World War II, Cooper served in the Navy and later in the Naval Reserve, reaching the rank of captain. He also competed in professional car racing for several years, and was inducted into the International Motorsports Hall of Fame in 2004.
In addition to his show business accomplishments, Cooper was known for his work as a humanitarian, serving as chairman of the National Association of Mental Health and working with organizations such as UNICEF and the Jerry Lewis Telethon. Cooper passed away in 2011 at the age of 88.
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Joe Frazier
Joe Frazier (January 12, 1944 Beaufort-November 7, 2011 Philadelphia) also known as Joseph Frazier, Joseph William Frazier, Smokin' Joe, Billy Boy, Smokin' Joe Frazier or Joseph William "Joe" Frazier was an American professional boxer and actor. He had three children, Marvis Frazier, Jackie Frazier-Lyde and Joe Frazier Jr..
Frazier was known for his aggressive fighting style and devastating left hook. He won the Olympic gold medal for boxing in 1964 before turning professional. Frazier was the world heavyweight champion from 1970 to 1973, holding the title until he was defeated by George Foreman. He is famously known for his epic battles with Muhammad Ali, including the “Fight of the Century” in 1971 and the “Thrilla in Manila” in 1975. After retiring from boxing, Frazier dabbled in acting, appearing in movies such as Rocky and The Simpsons. He also opened a boxing gym in Philadelphia, where he trained young fighters until his death in 2011 due to liver cancer. Frazier is considered one of the greatest boxers of all time and was inducted into the International Boxing Hall of Fame in 1990.
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Cliff Robertson
Cliff Robertson (September 9, 1923 La Jolla-September 10, 2011 Stony Brook) also known as Clifford Parker Robertson III, Clifford Parker "Cliff" Robertson, III, Clifford Parker "Cliff" Robertson III, Clifford Parker Robertson or Clifford Parker Robertson, III was an American actor, screenwriter and film director. His children are called Stephanie Robertson and Heather Robertson.
Robertson began his acting career in the early 1950s, appearing in television shows and films such as "Picnic" and "The Naked and the Dead". He won the Academy Award for Best Actor in 1968 for his role in the film "Charly" and was also known for his performance as Uncle Ben in the "Spider-Man" film franchise.
Beyond acting, Robertson was an accomplished pilot and in 1986, he famously exposed a scandal involving the misuse of funds by the organization responsible for selecting the Academy Award winners. He was also involved in philanthropy, serving as the national spokesperson for the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation.
Robertson's career spanned over six decades, and he continued to act in films and on television until his death in 2011 at the age of 88. He was remembered fondly by colleagues and fans for his talent, integrity, and dedication to his craft.
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Nate Dogg
Nate Dogg (August 19, 1969 Clarksdale-March 15, 2011 Long Beach) also known as Nathaniel Hale, Dogg, Nate, N. Hale or Nathaniel Dwayne Hale was an American singer, actor and rapper. His children are called Debra Hale, Whitney Hale, Aundrane Hale, Nathaniel Hale Jr., Niajel Hale and Milana Hale.
Nate Dogg rose to fame in the 1990s as a prominent figure in the West Coast hip-hop scene. He collaborated with many notable artists, such as Dr. Dre, Snoop Dogg, and Warren G, and lent his smooth, soulful vocals to some of the era's biggest hits. Some of his most famous songs include "Regulate," "Area Codes," and "The Next Episode."
Aside from his contributions to music, Nate Dogg also made appearances in several films and TV shows, including "The Steve Harvey Show" and "The Game."
Sadly, Nate Dogg passed away at the age of 41 due to complications from multiple strokes. His death was mourned by fans and fellow artists alike, and he is remembered as a beloved and influential figure in the music industry.
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Sidney Lumet
Sidney Lumet (June 25, 1924 Philadelphia-April 9, 2011 New York City) a.k.a. Sydney Lumet, Alan Smithee or Sidney Arthur Lumet was an American film director, screenwriter, film producer, television producer, actor and television director. He had two children, Jenny Lumet and Amy Lumet.
Lumet began his career in the late 1950s, and quickly gained a reputation as a skilled director with an eye for social issues. He directed a number of acclaimed films, including "12 Angry Men" (1957), "Serpico" (1973), "Dog Day Afternoon" (1975), and "Network" (1976), which earned him an Academy Award nomination for Best Director. He directed over 50 films in total, including many adaptations of plays, novels, and other works. He was known for his ability to draw powerful performances from his actors, and for his use of long takes and intimate close-ups. In addition to his work in film, Lumet worked in television, directing episodes of "The Twilight Zone" and "You Are There," among others. He was awarded an Honorary Academy Award in 2005 for his contributions to the art of film.
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Jeff Conaway
Jeff Conaway (October 5, 1950 Manhattan-May 27, 2011 Encino) also known as Jeffrey Charles William Michael, Jeffrey Charles William Michael Conaway, Jeffrey Charles William Michael "Jeff" Conaway or Jeff was an American actor, singer, model and teacher.
He was best known for his roles in the movies Grease and the television series Taxi. Conaway began his career in the late 1960s as a Broadway performer before transitioning into film and TV. In addition to his acting career, Conaway also worked as a recording artist and released several albums.
Later in life, Conaway struggled with addiction and appeared on the reality show Celebrity Rehab with Dr. Drew. He passed away in 2011 at the age of 60 after being found unconscious due to complications from pneumonia and sepsis. Despite the challenges he faced, Conaway's talent and legacy continue to be celebrated by fans and fellow performers alike.
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Harry Morgan
Harry Morgan (April 10, 1915 Detroit-December 7, 2011 Los Angeles) also known as Harry Bratsburg, Henry {Harry} Morgan, 'Henry [Harry] Morgan', Henry Morgan, Harry Bratsberg, Henry Bratsburg or Henry 'Harry' Morgan was an American actor, television director, writer and salesperson. His children are called Christopher Morgan, Daniel Morgan, Paul Morgan and Charles Morgan.
He is best known for his role as Colonel Sherman T. Potter in the television series M*A*S*H, which earned him an Emmy Award in 1980. Morgan also had memorable roles in other television shows such as Dragnet, The Richard Boone Show, Pete and Gladys, and December Bride. Apart from his acting career, Morgan also directed several episodes of TV shows and even wrote a few screenplays. Before he pursued a career in acting, he worked as a salesman for a bourbon distillery, which helped him hone his acting skills as he studied the behavior of people while he was on his sales rounds. Throughout his career, he was honored with various awards such as the Lifetime Achievement Award from the Screen Actors Guild and a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame.
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Alan Rubin
Alan Rubin (February 11, 1943 Brooklyn-June 8, 2011 Manhattan) also known as Mr. Fabulous, Al Rubin, A Rubin, Rubin, Al, The Blues Brothers Band, Alan 'Mr. Fabulous' Rubin, Alan P. Rubin or Howard Shore and His Band of Angels was an American musician and actor.
Rubin was best known for his work as a trumpeter and horn player, and was a member of several influential bands throughout his career. He played alongside greats like Frank Sinatra, Ray Charles, and Aretha Franklin, and was a founding member of the original Blues Brothers Band. In addition to his musical work, Rubin also acted in a number of films and television shows, including "The Blues Brothers," "Ghostbusters," and "The Last Waltz." He was highly regarded in the music industry, and was nominated for several Grammy Awards throughout his career. Despite his success, Rubin remained humble and dedicated to his craft, and continued to perform until his death in 2011.
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Randy Savage
Randy Savage (November 15, 1952 Columbus-May 20, 2011 Seminole) also known as The Macho King, Randall Mario Poffo, Mr. Madness, Macho Man Randy Savage, Savage, Randy, Randy Poffo, Macho King Randy Savage, 'The Machoman' Randy Savage, The Macho Man, Randy 'The Macho Man' Savage, The Spider, Randall Mario "Randy" Poffo, Randy 'Macho Man' Savage, "Macho Man" Randy Savage or Randy Mario Poffo was an American wrestler, actor, rapper, baseball player and voice actor.
Randy Savage first gained fame in the professional wrestling world during his time with World Wrestling Entertainment (WWE) in the 1980s and 1990s. He won multiple championships, including the WWE Championship and Intercontinental Championship. Savage was known for his flamboyant style and iconic catchphrases, such as "oh yeah" and "snap into a Slim Jim."
In addition to his wrestling career, Savage also pursued acting and appeared in several films and TV shows, including Spider-Man, The Wrestler, and Baywatch. He also released a rap album called "Be a Man" in 2003.
Before becoming a wrestler, Savage played minor league baseball for several years. He later returned to baseball as a coach and commentator, including a stint as a color commentator for the St. Louis Cardinals.
Savage was inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame in 2015, four years after his death from a heart attack at the age of 58.
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Roberts Blossom
Roberts Blossom (March 25, 1924 New Haven-July 8, 2011 Santa Monica) a.k.a. Roberts Scott Blossom or Bartholomew Roberts Blossom was an American actor, poet and playwright. He had two children, Debbie Blossom and Michael Blossom.
Blossom started his career in theater and later ventured into television and films. He appeared in several successful movies such as "The Last Temptation of Christ," "Home Alone," and "Escape from Alcatraz." He received critical acclaim for his performance in the 1974 horror film "Deranged." Besides acting, Blossom was also a renowned poet and playwright. He published several poetry collections and wrote plays that were produced off-Broadway. Blossom's works often centered around his experiences growing up in rural Connecticut. In addition to his creative pursuits, he was also an academic, teaching drama at the University of Hawaii and Brown University. Despite his success, Blossom remained humble and known for his kindness towards others.
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G. D. Spradlin
G. D. Spradlin (August 31, 1920 Pauls Valley-July 24, 2011 San Luis Obispo) also known as Gervase Duan Spradlin, Gervase Duan "G.D." Spradlin or G.D. Spradlin was an American actor, lawyer and businessperson. He had one child, Wendy Spradlin.
Spradlin started his career as a lawyer and even served as a District Attorney in the Oklahoma District Court. However, he later quit his legal career to pursue his passion for acting. He got his first break in the entertainment industry when he appeared in the TV series, The Untouchables. Over the years, he appeared in various films such as The Godfather: Part II, Apocalypse Now, and Ed Wood, among others.
Apart from acting, Spradlin was also a successful businessman. He co-founded the Tahiti Village, a resort in Las Vegas, and served as its chairman. He was also a member of the board of directors of such companies as MGM Resorts International and Del Webb Corporation.
In addition to his acting and business career, Spradlin was also a philanthropist. He served on the board of the San Luis Obispo County YMCA and was also involved with the Boy Scouts of America.
Spradlin passed away in 2011 at the age of 90 due to natural causes.
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Charles Napier
Charles Napier (April 12, 1936 Kentucky-October 5, 2011 Bakersfield) also known as Chuck Napier, Charles L. Napier, Napier or Sr. Charles Whitnel Napier was an American actor, voice actor, author and soldier. He had three children, Meghan Napier, Charles Whitnel Napier and Hunter Napier.
Napier served in the United States Army during the 1950s before launching his acting career in the 1960s. He appeared in over 180 films and television shows throughout his career, including memorable roles in "The Blues Brothers," "Austin Powers: International Man of Mystery," and "Rambo: First Blood Part II." Napier was also a prolific voice actor, lending his voice to characters in animated shows such as "The Critic" and "The Simpsons." In addition, Napier was an author, publishing his memoir "Square-Jawed Cowboy: A Biography of Charles Napier" in 2009. He passed away in 2011 after battling cancer.
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James Arness
James Arness (May 26, 1923 Minneapolis-June 3, 2011 Los Angeles) also known as James Aurness, James King Aurness, Jim Aurness, Jim Arness, James King Arness, Jim or James "Marshal Dillon" Arness was an American actor, soldier and television producer. His children are called Jenny Lee Aurness, Rolf Aurness and Craig Aurness.
Arness is best known for his role as Marshal Matt Dillon in the television series "Gunsmoke," which aired from 1955 to 1975. He held the title for playing the same character in a primetime live-action series for the longest amount of time with "Gunsmoke" running for 20 seasons. Prior to his acting career, Arness served in the United States Army during World War II and was wounded in Italy. He received the Bronze Star and the Purple Heart for his service. Arness also made notable appearances in films such as "The Thing from Another World" (1951) and "Them!" (1954). In addition to his acting work, Arness also produced several television series, including "Gunsmoke" and "How the West Was Won." He was inducted into the Western Performers Hall of Fame in 1981 and received a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame in 1960.
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Anthony Herrera
Anthony Herrera (January 19, 1944 Wiggins-June 21, 2011 Buenos Aires) also known as Anthony John Herrera was an American actor, film director, television director and screenwriter. He had one child, Gaby Hoffmann.
Herrera began his acting career in the late 1960s with his first major role in the soap opera, "One Life to Live". He then appeared in several films such as "The Soap Opera", "The Great Gatsby", and "A Memory of Two Mondays". Herrera was also a prolific television director, having worked on a number of popular shows including "The Waltons", "Knots Landing", and "The Young and the Restless". He directed a total of 143 episodes of "General Hospital", earning him a Daytime Emmy award in 1994. In addition to his work in entertainment, Herrera was also a philanthropist who supported causes such as literacy and education. He passed away in 2011 at the age of 67 due to a heart attack while in Buenos Aires working on a film project.
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Farley Granger
Farley Granger (July 1, 1925 San Jose-March 27, 2011 New York City) also known as Farley Earle Granger II or Farley Earle Granger was an American actor and acting teacher.
Granger rose to fame in the late 1940s and early 1950s, starring in Alfred Hitchcock's thrillers "Rope" and "Strangers on a Train." He later transitioned to stage acting and became an acting teacher, teaching at the HB Studio in New York City. Granger was also openly gay at a time when it was considered taboo and advocated for LGBTQ+ rights. In his later years, he wrote his memoir "Include Me Out: My Life from Goldwyn to Broadway" which was published in 2007.
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Kenneth Mars
Kenneth Mars (April 4, 1935 Chicago-February 12, 2011 Granada Hills) a.k.a. Kenneth Moss, Kenny Mars or Ken Mars was an American actor, comedian and voice actor. He had two children, Susannah Mars-Johnson and Rebecca Mars-Tipton.
Mars began his career in the theater, performing in various Broadway productions throughout the 1960s. He gained national recognition for his role as Franz Liebkind in the film "The Producers" (1968), directed by Mel Brooks. He went on to appear in numerous other films including "Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid" (1969), "What's Up, Doc?" (1972), and "Young Frankenstein" (1974).
Mars was also known for his voice work in animation, particularly in the Disney films "The Little Mermaid" (1989) and "The Lion King" (1994), in which he voiced the characters of King Triton and Maurier, respectively.
In addition to his acting career, Mars also taught acting classes in Los Angeles and was a member of the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences. He passed away in 2011 at the age of 75 from pancreatic cancer.
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Bubba Smith
Bubba Smith (February 28, 1945 Orange-August 3, 2011 Baldwin Hills) also known as Charles Aaron Smith, Bubba or Charles Aaron "Bubba" Smith was an American american football player and actor.
Smith played college football at Michigan State University and went on to have a successful professional career in the NFL, playing for the Baltimore Colts, Oakland Raiders, and Houston Oilers. He won Super Bowl V with the Colts in 1971. After retiring from football, Smith transitioned into acting, with notable roles in films such as the "Police Academy" franchise and "The Silence of the Lambs." Off-screen, Smith was known for his charitable work, particularly with organizations that helped children in need. He passed away in 2011 at the age of 66.
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Bill McKinney
Bill McKinney (September 12, 1931 Chattanooga-December 1, 2011 Van Nuys) also known as William McKinney, William Denison "Bill" McKinney, Bill or William Denison McKinney was an American singer, actor, arborist and teacher. He had one child, Clinton McKinney.
McKinney began his career as a stuntman in 1962 and went on to appear in over 200 films and television shows. He was best known for his work in Western and action films, including "Deliverance," "The Outlaw Josey Wales," and "First Blood." In addition to his acting career, McKinney was also an accomplished arborist and operated his own tree maintenance business. He later became a teacher, sharing his expertise in both acting and arboriculture with aspiring students. McKinney passed away in 2011 at the age of 80.
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Ryan Dunn
Ryan Dunn (June 11, 1977 Medina-June 20, 2011 West Goshen Township) a.k.a. Ryan Matthew Dunn, Random Hero, Plugs, Prima Dunna, Cryin' Ryan, Ryan Dunn a.k.a. Random Hero or Ryan Dunn aka Plugs was an American stunt performer, actor, film producer and tv personality.
He was best known for his appearances in the hit MTV series "Jackass" and its three spin-off films. Dunn began his career performing in various CKY videos alongside his long-time friend Bam Margera, before gaining widespread recognition for his daredevil stunts and comedic personality in "Jackass". He also starred in several other television shows and films, such as "Viva La Bam", "Homewrecker", "Haggard", and "Proving Ground".
Dunn was also an accomplished car enthusiast and had a successful YouTube channel where he documented his love for cars and racing. Tragically, Dunn died in a car accident in 2011 at the age of 34. He is remembered by his friends and fans as a fearless performer and hilarious personality who brought joy and laughter into the lives of so many.
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David Hess
David Hess (September 19, 1936 New York City-October 7, 2011 Tiburon) a.k.a. David Alexander Hess, David A. Hess, David Dante or David Hill was an American songwriter, composer, film producer, film director, actor and singer. He had four children, Jesse Hess, Steve Morris Hess, Sasha Hess and Sara Hess.
Hess began his career in the entertainment industry as a songwriter during the 1950s and 1960s, writing hit songs for Elvis Presley, Pat Boone, and Conway Twitty, among others. He later ventured into acting, appearing in prominent films such as "The Last House on the Left" (1972), "House on the Edge of the Park" (1980), and "Swamp Thing" (1982). In addition to his work in film, Hess continued to produce music throughout his career, releasing several albums and performing in music venues across the country. He passed away in 2011 at his home in Tiburon, California, at the age of 75.
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Pinetop Perkins
Pinetop Perkins (July 7, 1913 Belzoni-March 21, 2011 Austin) a.k.a. Pine Top Perkins, Joe Willie "Pinetop" Perkins, Joe Willie 'Pinetop' Perkins, Joe Willie "Pine Top" Perkins, Joe Willie Perkins, Joseph William Perkins or Willie Perkins was an American musician, jazz pianist, singer and actor.
Perkins began his music career in the 1920s, playing blues and jazz in juke joints and clubs throughout the Mississippi Delta region. He played with some of the biggest names in blues, such as Sonny Boy Williamson II, Robert Nighthawk, and Muddy Waters. In 1969, he joined the legendary band, The Muddy Waters Band, and played with them for over a decade. He also had a successful solo career, recording over 20 albums and receiving numerous awards, including three Grammy Awards. Perkins continued to perform and tour well into his 90s and was inducted into the Blues Hall of Fame in 2003. In addition to his music, he also acted in several movies, including "Angel Heart" and "Blues Brothers 2000". Perkins is widely regarded as one of the greatest piano players in the history of the blues and his music continues to inspire and influence musicians today.
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Alan Fudge
Alan Fudge (February 27, 1944 Wichita-October 10, 2011 Los Angeles) was an American actor and musician.
He began his career in the entertainment industry in the 1960s, appearing in various TV shows and movies. Fudge was particularly recognized for his roles in popular TV series such as "The Man from Atlantis" and "7th Heaven". In addition to his work as an actor, he was also a talented musician, playing a number of instruments including the guitar, piano, and saxophone. Throughout his career, Fudge became known for his versatile acting abilities and his dedication to his craft.
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Sid Melton
Sid Melton (May 22, 1917 Brooklyn-November 2, 2011 Burbank) a.k.a. Sidney Meltzer or Sidney Melton was an American actor.
He began acting in his teenage years, appearing in vaudeville and on Broadway before transitioning to film and television. Melton appeared in over 140 films and TV shows throughout his career, often playing comedic sidekick roles. He is perhaps best known for his roles in the TV series "The Danny Thomas Show" and "Green Acres" and in the film "Lost Continent." In addition to acting, Melton was also a successful businessman, owning several restaurants in the Los Angeles area. He passed away at the age of 94 due to complications from pneumonia.
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Alan Sues
Alan Sues (March 7, 1926 Ross-December 1, 2011 West Hollywood) a.k.a. Alan Grigsby Sues was an American actor.
He became famous in the 1960s as a regular cast member of the television show Rowan & Martin's Laugh-In. Sues played a variety of zany characters on the show and became known for his flamboyant style and wild comedic performances. Prior to Laugh-In, he had appeared on several other TV shows including The Twilight Zone, The Beverly Hillbillies, and The Wild Wild West. Sues also had a successful career in the theater, performing in plays on Broadway and in regional theaters across the United States. Later in his life, he became an advocate for the LGBT community and was open about his own homosexuality.
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Christopher Mayer
Christopher Mayer (February 21, 1954 Manhattan-July 23, 2011 Sherman Oaks) a.k.a. George Charles Mayer III, Chip Mayer, Chris Mayer or Christopher "Chip" Mayer was an American actor. He had three children, Ashley Mayer, Alexandra Mayer and Angelica Mayer.
Mayer's most notable role was as Vance Duke on the popular TV series "The Dukes of Hazzard" in the early 1980s. He also appeared in several other TV shows and movies over the years, including "Santa Barbara," "Beverly Hills, 90210," and "L.A. Law." Outside of acting, Mayer was a skilled musician and even recorded his own album, titled "Songs from the Mojave Wasteland." Unfortunately, Mayer passed away at the age of 57 from complications related to his ongoing battle with alcoholism. He is survived by his three children and is remembered as a talented actor and musician.
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Wally Boag
Wally Boag (September 13, 1920 Portland-June 3, 2011 Santa Monica) also known as Wallace Vincent Boag or Wallace Vincent "Wally" Boag was an American actor and comedian.
He is best known for his work as a performer in Disneyland's Golden Horseshoe Revue in the 1950s and 60s. Boag was known for his quick wit, physical comedy, and expert improvisation skills. He also appeared in several films, including The Love Bug and The Absent-Minded Professor. In addition to his acting career, Boag was an accomplished magician and performed at various venues throughout his life. He was posthumously inducted as a Disney Legend in 2009 for his contributions to the entertainment industry.
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David Nelson
David Nelson (October 24, 1936 New York City-January 11, 2011 Century City) also known as David Oswald Nelson or Dave was an American film director, actor, film producer and television director. His children are called John Nelson, Teri Nelson, Eric Nelson, Daniel Blair Nelson and James Eric Nelson.
David Nelson was best known for his role as the older son in the popular sitcom "The Adventures of Ozzie and Harriet" where he acted alongside his younger brother, Ricky Nelson. He appeared in over 200 episodes of the show which aired from 1952 to 1966. He later went on to direct and produce several episodes of the show as well.
After the show ended, Nelson continued to work in the entertainment industry, directing numerous television shows such as "Cannon", "The Love Boat", and "Highway to Heaven". He also directed a few films including "Childish Things" and "Last Plane Out".
In addition to his work as a director, Nelson was a philanthropist and advocate for cancer research. He founded the David Nelson Leukemia Foundation in memory of his daughter Jennifer who passed away from the disease.
Throughout his career, David Nelson was nominated for several awards including an Emmy for Outstanding Directing in a Drama Series for his work on the show "The West Wing". He passed away in 2011 at the age of 74 from complications of colon cancer.
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Stephen Douglass
Stephen Douglass (September 27, 1921 Mount Vernon-November 27, 2014) was an American actor and singer.
He was born in Mount Vernon, New York and grew up in Harlem where he began singing in his church choir. He later joined the US Army during World War II and performed in a musical production called "Tars and Spars". After the war, he continued his career in entertainment and gained fame on Broadway in productions such as "Finian's Rainbow" and "Hallelujah, Baby!". He also appeared in several films including "The Defiant Ones" and "Guess Who's Coming to Dinner". Douglass was a prominent African American performer during a time of racial segregation and paved the way for other black actors and singers in the entertainment industry.
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Wyatt Knight
Wyatt Knight (January 20, 1955 United States of America-October 25, 2011 Maui) was an American actor.
He was best known for his role as Tommy Turner in the 1980s film series "Porky's". Knight also appeared in other films and television shows, including "The Waltons", "Chicago Story", and "M*A*S*H". He started his acting career in the late 1970s, and his last appearance was in the 1991 film "Dragonfight". In addition to his work in entertainment, Knight was also a certified scuba diver and owned a dive shop in Maui. He tragically committed suicide at the age of 56.
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Leonard Stone
Leonard Stone (November 3, 1923 Salem-November 2, 2011 Encinitas) also known as Leonard Steinbock was an American actor. He had four children, Robin Stone, Debbie Stone, Jan Fryman and Michael Merkow-Stone.
Leonard Stone's acting career spanned over five decades and included roles in over 120 films, television shows, and stage productions. He made his Broadway debut in 1949 in the musical "Miss Liberty" before transitioning to film and television.
Stone's notable film credits include "Spartacus," "The Comancheros," and "Willy Wonka & the Chocolate Factory." He also had numerous guest appearances on popular TV series such as "The Twilight Zone," "The Outer Limits," and "Star Trek."
In addition to his acting career, Stone was also an accomplished director, producer, and writer. He directed several episodes of "Gomer Pyle, U.S.M.C." and produced the film "The Seven Minutes."
Stone passed away in 2011, just one day shy of his 88th birthday, leaving behind a legacy in the entertainment industry.
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William Campbell
William Campbell (October 30, 1923 Newark-April 28, 2011 Woodland Hills) otherwise known as Bill Campbell or William J. Campbell was an American actor.
He began his career in the late 1940s and appeared in over 200 films and television shows during his career. Campbell was best known for his roles in classic western movies such as "Dementia 13" (1963), "Love Me Tender" (1956), and "Operation Pacific" (1951). He also appeared in several popular television shows, including "Star Trek", "The Wild Wild West", and "Columbo". In addition to acting, Campbell served in the United States Army during World War II and was a licensed pilot. He passed away in 2011 at the age of 87.
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David F. Friedman
David F. Friedman (December 24, 1923 Birmingham-February 14, 2011 Anniston) also known as David Friedman, Dave Friedman, Davis Freeman, David Mason, Col. David F. Friedman, Davis Mason, Bradford Hallsworth, Awesome Greed, Herman Träger, Mr. David F. Friedman, Col. Dave Friedman, Herman Traeger, The Mighty Monarch of Exploitation, David Frank Friedman or David F Friedman was an American screenwriter, actor and film producer.
Friedman was born in Birmingham, Alabama in 1923. He served in World War II and after completing his service, he pursued a career in the film industry. Friedman is best known for producing and distributing exploitation films such as Blood Feast, Two Thousand Maniacs!, She Freak, and The Astro-Zombies. He was considered a pioneer of the exploitation film genre and his films often featured graphic violence and nudity.
Aside from producing and distributing films, Friedman also wrote and acted in some of his own productions. He continued to work in the film industry until the 1990s and was known for his colorful personality and love of marketing. After retiring from the film industry, Friedman wrote a memoir titled A Youth in Babylon: Confessions of a Trash-Film King, which detailed his experiences in the exploitation film industry.
Friedman passed away in Anniston, Alabama in 2011 at the age of 87. His contributions to the film industry, particularly the exploitation genre, have had a lasting impact on cinema history.
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Tom Aldredge
Tom Aldredge (February 28, 1928 Dayton-July 22, 2011 Tampa) also known as Thomas Ernest Aldredge, Thomas Ernest "Tom" Aldredge or Tom was an American actor.
He began his acting career in the 1950s and appeared in a variety of stage productions, including "Where's Charley?" and "The Crucible." In the 1960s, he started making appearances on television and in films, such as "The Electric Company" and "The Sopranos." Aldredge's most notable performances came on Broadway, where he won a Tony Award for his role in "Passion" and received nominations for "Twentieth Century" and "Into the Woods." He continued to work in the entertainment industry up until his death in 2011 at the age of 83.
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James Pritchett
James Pritchett (October 27, 1922 Lenoir-March 15, 2011 New York City) was an American actor.
He was best known for his role as Dr. Matt Powers on the soap opera "The Doctors" from 1972 to 1982, for which he was nominated for a Daytime Emmy award. Pritchett also had a successful career on stage, appearing in numerous Broadway productions throughout the 1950s and 1960s. He was also a respected teacher of acting, teaching at several prestigious institutions including Yale University and The Juilliard School. Pritchett was married to stage actress Anne Meacham for over 50 years until her death in 2006.
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Paul Picerni
Paul Picerni (December 1, 1922 Corona-January 12, 2011 Palmdale) also known as Horace Paul Picerni, Paul Vincent Picerni, Horatio Paul Picerni, Paul Vincent Picerni, Sr. or H.P. Picerni was an American actor and fighter pilot. His children are called Paul V. Picerni Jr., Gina Picerni, Marilyn Picerni, Nicci Picerni, Gemma Salona, Charles Picerni, Mike Picerni and Philip Picerni.
Paul Picerni began his acting career in the 1940s and appeared in more than 100 films and television shows throughout his career. He is perhaps best known for his recurring role as Agent Lee Hobson in the television series "The Untouchables" from 1959 to 1963.
Before he pursued an acting career, Picerni served in World War II as a fighter pilot in the United States Army Air Forces. He flew missions in North Africa and Italy, earning several honors for his service, including the Distinguished Flying Cross and the Air Medal with six oak leaf clusters.
In addition to his acting career, Picerni was also an active member of the film industry as a stuntman, assistant director, and producer. He worked on films such as "Dirty Harry," "The Great Escape," and "Chinatown."
Picerni passed away in 2011 at the age of 88.
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Tom Wilson
Tom Wilson (August 1, 1931 Grant Town-September 16, 2011 Cincinnati) otherwise known as Thomas Albert Wilson was an American cartoonist, artist, actor, film producer, screenwriter and visual artist.
He is best known for creating the comic strip "Ziggy," which began in 1969 and ran until his death. Wilson attended the Art Institute of Pittsburgh and later moved to New York to work as a freelance cartoonist for various publications. In addition to his successful career in cartooning, Wilson also worked in television and film. He served as the producer and screenwriter for the film "The Nine Lives of Fritz the Cat" and made appearances in several popular TV shows such as "The Simpsons" and "Futurama." Wilson's artwork has been exhibited in galleries across the United States, and he was a recipient of the National Cartoonists Society's prestigious Cartoonist of the Year award in 1985.
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Paul Kent
Paul Kent (October 13, 1930 Brooklyn-October 7, 2011 Hollywood Hills) was an American actor.
Kent started his acting career on stage and then moved to television and film. He appeared in numerous TV shows and movies throughout his career, including "Mission: Impossible," "Hogan's Heroes," and "The Fugitive." Kent also appeared in a number of films, such as "The Boston Strangler," "WUSA," and "The Seven-Ups." He was known for his versatile acting skills and often landed roles as a tough guy or villain. In addition to acting, Kent was also a very talented writer, penning several screenplays and contributing articles to various magazines. He continued to act in films and TV shows up until his death in 2011.
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Aron Kincaid
Aron Kincaid (June 15, 1940 Los Angeles-January 6, 2011 Los Angeles) a.k.a. Norm Williams, N.N. Williams II, Norman Neale Williams II or Aron Kindaid was an American actor, voice actor, model and painter.
He was best known for his roles in Beach Blanket Bingo, The Girls on the Beach, and The Love Bug. Kincaid began modeling in his teenage years, and soon transitioned into acting, starting with small roles in television shows such as Bewitched and The Beverly Hillbillies.
Beyond his work on screen, Kincaid was also a talented painter whose works were often inspired by the ocean views of his hometown in California. After retiring from acting in the 1980s, he focused more on his painting and had several successful gallery showings.
Despite his decades-long career in show business, Kincaid remained relatively private and was known for his modesty and kind nature. He passed away in 2011 at the age of 70.
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Kevin Jarre
Kevin Jarre (August 6, 1954 Detroit-April 3, 2011 Santa Monica) also known as Kevin was an American screenwriter, actor and film producer.
He is best known for writing the screenplay for the film "Glory" (1989), which earned him an Academy Award nomination. Jarre also wrote the script for "Tombstone" (1993), a western film about the gunfight at the O.K. Corral, which starred Kurt Russell and Val Kilmer. In addition to his work on these two films, Jarre also acted in a few feature films such as "The Devil's Own" (1997) and "RAMBO" (2008), as well as produced several documentaries. Outside of his work in the film industry, Jarre was a graduate of the USC School of Cinematic Arts and a member of the Writers Guild of America.
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Michael Tolan
Michael Tolan (November 27, 1925 Detroit-January 31, 2011 Hudson) also known as Seymour Tuchow, Lawrence Tolan, Michael Tolin or Larry Tolan was an American actor and film producer. He had three children, Emilie Tolan, Alexandra Tolan and Jenny Tolan.
Tolan began his career as a stage actor and made his Broadway debut in the play "Wish You Were Here" in 1952. He went on to appear in several plays and musicals throughout his career, including "The Golden Apple" and "Sunday in New York."
In addition to his stage work, Tolan also appeared in numerous TV shows and movies. Some of his notable TV credits include "The Twilight Zone," "The Outer Limits," and "Star Trek." He also had recurring roles on "The Doctors" and "General Hospital."
Tolan later transitioned into producing, and co-produced several films and TV shows including "The Mary Tyler Moore Show" and "The Bob Newhart Show." He also served as the president of the Screen Actors Guild from 1979 to 1981.
Tolan passed away in 2011 at the age of 85 from undisclosed causes.
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Patrice O'Neal
Patrice O'Neal (December 7, 1969 New York City-November 29, 2011 Englewood) also known as Patrice Lumumba Malcolm Oneal, Patrice Lumumba Malcolm O'Neal, Patrice ONeal, Mr. P, Bruiser or Patrice Malcolm Oneal was an American actor, stand-up comedian, screenwriter and presenter. He had one child, Aymilyon Oneal.
O'Neal was known for his brutally honest and hilarious takes on the most sensitive and taboo subjects. He appeared on several TV shows including The Office, Arrested Development, and Chappelle's Show. O'Neal was a regular on The Opie & Anthony Show and had his own radio show, The Black Phillip Show, which focused on dating and relationships from a male perspective. In 2011, O'Neal passed away from complications of a stroke at the age of 41, leaving behind a legacy as one of the greatest comedians of his time. His comedy specials, including "Elephant in the Room" and "Mr. P," continue to be enjoyed by fans all over the world.
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Ira Cohen
Ira Cohen (February 3, 1935 The Bronx-April 25, 2011 New York) was an American photographer, poet, publisher, actor and filmmaker. He had four children, David Schleifer, Rafiqa el Shenawi, Raphael Aladdin Cohen and Lakshmi Cohen.
Cohen was known for his experimental photography and his involvement in the counterculture movement of the 1960s. He traveled extensively throughout his life, living in locations such as Morocco, Paris, and Kathmandu, which inspired much of his artistic work. In the 1960s, he founded the Mycological Society of America, a group dedicated to the study of mushrooms, which attracted many prominent poets and artists. Cohen also collaborated with musicians, including Jimi Hendrix and William S. Burroughs, and his work has been featured in numerous exhibitions and publications. His legacy continues to influence the world of art and culture today.
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Francesco Quinn
Francesco Quinn (March 22, 1963 Rome-August 5, 2011 Malibu) a.k.a. Francesco Daniele Quinn was an American actor and voice actor. His children are called Michela Quinn and Max Quinn.
Francesco Quinn was the son of the legendary movie star, Anthony Quinn. Francesco had a multi-ethnic background, with his father being of Mexican descent and his mother being of Italian and Irish descent. He began his acting career in the 1980s and appeared in a variety of films and TV shows, including Platoon, The Dark Side of the Sun, and JAG. In addition to his work on screen, he was also a talented voice actor and lent his voice to various video games and animated TV shows. In 2011, Quinn tragically passed away at the age of 48 due to a heart attack. His legacy lives on through his work in the entertainment industry and his two children.
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Đơn Dương
Đơn Dương (August 27, 1957 Da Lat-December 8, 2011 San Francisco) otherwise known as Đơn Dương, Bùi Đơn Dương or Duong Don was an American actor. He had two children, Bui Vu Long and Bui Vu Linh.
Đơn Dương was born in Da Lat, Vietnam and immigrated to the United States with his family in 1975 as refugees during the Vietnam War. He attended San Jose State University where he earned a degree in advertising. He pursued a career in acting and landed roles in several films and TV shows, including "The Joy Luck Club," "Eraser," and "NYPD Blue." He was also a member of the East West Players, the oldest Asian American theater organization in the United States.
Aside from his acting career, Đơn Dương was also actively involved in the Vietnamese American community. He was a member of the Vietnamese American Arts and Letters Association and helped produce and direct plays for the organization. He was also a supporter of Vietnamese American filmmakers and served as a consultant for the Vietnamese International Film Festival.
Đơn Dương's sudden death at the age of 54 shocked many in the entertainment industry and the Vietnamese American community. He was survived by his two children and his wife, filmmaker Hieu Ho.
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Verne Langdon
Verne Langdon (September 15, 1941 Oakland-January 1, 2011) was an American wrestler, actor, record producer and singer.
He was known for his work in the horror and Halloween industry, creating and performing in haunted houses and theme parks. Langdon also worked as a makeup artist, creating special effects and prosthetics for various films and television shows. In addition to his work in entertainment, Langdon was an accomplished athlete, competing in wrestling, bodybuilding, and powerlifting competitions throughout his life. He also held several world records for weightlifting. Langdon's legacy in entertainment and athletics continues to inspire fans and colleagues to this day.
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Bob Fraser
Bob Fraser (November 27, 2014 New York City-July 12, 2011 Los Angeles) was an American television producer, writer and actor.
He started his career as a writer for the TV series "The Dean Martin Show" and went on to work on numerous other popular shows. Fraser also had acting roles in TV shows and movies such as "The Odd Couple" and "Quincy M.E." He is perhaps best known for producing the hit TV series "Happy Days" and its spinoff "Laverne & Shirley". Fraser received multiple Emmy nominations for his work on "Happy Days" and won a People's Choice Award in 1979. He was also a philanthropist and supported various charities throughout his life.
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Michael Wager
Michael Wager (April 29, 1925 New York City-December 26, 2011) also known as Emanuel Weisgal, Wager or Mendy was an American actor. He had one child, Alexandra Wager.
Michael Wager grew up in the Bronx, New York and enlisted in the United States Army during World War II. After serving in the army, he went on to study at the Actors Studio in New York City. Wager appeared in many television shows and films throughout his career, including the films King Rat and The Viking Queen, and TV shows such as The Twilight Zone, Bewitched, and The FBI. He also was a stage actor, performing on Broadway in the plays The Disenchanted and The Ballad of the Sad Cafe. In addition to his acting career, Wager was also a playwright, and his works were performed off-Broadway. He passed away in 2011 at the age of 86.
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Charlie Callas
Charlie Callas (December 20, 1927 Brooklyn-January 27, 2011 Las Vegas) also known as Charles Callas or Charles Callias was an American comedian and actor. He had two children, Mark Callas and Larry Callas.
Born into a family of entertainers, Charlie Callas got his start in show business as a drummer, but soon found himself drawn to comedy. He began honing his skills in the nightclubs of New York City, where he quickly established himself as a rising star on the comedy circuit. In the 1960s and 70s, he appeared on numerous TV shows, including The Ed Sullivan Show, The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson, and The Dean Martin Show.
Callas was known for his zany characters and off-the-wall humor, often incorporating physical comedy into his performances. He was also a talented impressionist, able to impersonate a wide range of celebrities and fictional characters.
In addition to his work as a comedian, Callas also had a successful career as a character actor, appearing in films such as The Silence of the Hams and TV shows like The Love Boat and The Fall Guy.
Throughout his career, Callas remained dedicated to his craft, constantly refining his comedy and perfecting his timing. His distinctive voice and irreverent style made him a beloved figure in the world of comedy, and his influence can still be seen in the work of many comedians today. Callas passed away in 2011 at the age of 83.
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