Famous movie actors died when they were 52

Here are 15 famous actors from the world died at 52:

François Truffaut

François Truffaut (February 6, 1932 Paris-October 21, 1984 Neuilly-sur-Seine) a.k.a. Francois Truffaut, François Roland Truffaut, F. Truffaut, François, Le Petit Caporal or La Truffe was a French film director, actor, screenwriter, film producer and film critic. He had three children, Eva Truffaut, Joséphine Truffaut and Laura Truffaut.

He died in brain tumor.

Truffaut was one of the founders of the French New Wave movement in cinema, which focused on realistic and personal storytelling, often with a documentary-style approach. He directed and wrote several influential films, including "The 400 Blows," "Shoot the Piano Player," and "Day for Night," which won the Best Foreign Language Film Oscar in 1974. Truffaut was also known for his collaborations with actress Catherine Deneuve, and he appeared in several films as an actor as well. Outside of his film career, Truffaut was a prolific writer, with books including "The Films in My Life" and "Hitchcock/Truffaut," a collection of interviews with the legendary filmmaker.

Read more about François Truffaut on Wikipedia »

Christopher George

Christopher George (February 25, 1931 Royal Oak-November 28, 1983 Los Angeles) a.k.a. Christopher John George or Chris George was an American actor, soldier and entrepreneur. His child is Nicky George.

He died as a result of myocardial infarction.

Christopher George was best known for his roles in action movies and television shows in the 60s and 70s, including "The Rat Patrol" and "Chisum." Prior to his acting career, George served in the United States Marine Corps during the Korean War. He also started and ran his own successful business, a chain of health clubs called American Health Studios. In addition, George was an avid animal lover and supporter of animal rights. He was married to actress Lynda Day George from 1970 until his death in 1983.

Read more about Christopher George on Wikipedia »

Ray Bumatai

Ray Bumatai (December 20, 1952 Offenbach-October 6, 2005 Honolulu) otherwise known as Ray M. Bumatai or Raimund Bumatai was an American singer, actor, musician, voice actor and comedian. He had one child, Cecilly Ann Bumatai.

He died in brain tumor.

Ray Bumatai was born to a German mother and Hawaiian-Filipino father in Offenbach, Germany. His family moved to Hawaii when he was two years old, where he would remain for the rest of his life. Bumatai began his entertainment career as a musician, playing the ukulele and guitar at local venues. He later branched out into acting, voice acting, and comedy, becoming a well-known performer in Hawaii.

Bumatai starred in several popular Hawaiian television shows and was also a regular host on local radio programs. He gained national attention for his role as Det. Gordon Katsumoto on the hit television series "Magnum, P.I." in the 1980s. Bumatai was also an accomplished stage actor, appearing in numerous productions at the Hawaii Theatre and other local theaters.

In addition to his entertainment career, Bumatai was deeply involved in the Hawaiian community. He hosted a weekly radio show that promoted Hawaiian language and culture, and was an advocate for Native Hawaiian rights.

Bumatai was diagnosed with a brain tumor in 2004, and passed away on October 6, 2005 in Honolulu. He was remembered fondly by his fans and colleagues, and his contributions to the entertainment industry and Hawaiian culture continue to be celebrated today.

Read more about Ray Bumatai on Wikipedia »

Roy Orbison

Roy Orbison (April 23, 1936 Vernon-December 6, 1988 Hendersonville) also known as Roy Orbsion, Roy Orbinson, Roy Orbisson, Ray Orbison, Roy Kelton Orbison, Orbison, Roy, The Big O, The Voice or the Caruso of Rock was an American singer, musician, songwriter, guitarist, actor and composer. He had three children, Wesley Orbison, Roy Kelton Orbison and Alexander Orbison.

He died as a result of myocardial infarction.

Orbison was known for his distinctive voice, which spanned three octaves, and for his emotional ballads, which often touched on themes of love and loss. Some of his most famous songs include "Only the Lonely," "Crying," and "Oh, Pretty Woman." He was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1987 and is widely regarded as one of the greatest singers of all time. In addition to his music career, Orbison also appeared in several films and television shows, including "The Fastest Guitar Alive" and "The Dukes of Hazzard." Despite his success, Orbison struggled with personal tragedy throughout his life, including the deaths of his first wife and two of his children. His influence can still be heard in the music of today, with artists like Bruce Springsteen and Chris Isaak citing him as a major inspiration.

Read more about Roy Orbison on Wikipedia »

Jacno

Jacno (July 3, 1957 Paris-November 6, 2009 France) a.k.a. Denis Quilliard or Denis Jacno was a French singer, actor and film score composer. He had one child, Calypso Medeiros.

He died caused by cancer.

Jacno was one of the pioneers of French electronic and new wave music, having established a cult following with his band, Taxi Girl, in the 1980s. He went on to have a successful solo career, releasing several albums, including " Rectangle," which included the hit singles "Anne cherchait l'amour" and "Tic Tac."

In addition to his music career, Jacno also had a foray into acting, appearing in films such as "L'Homme aux yeux d'argent" and "Requiem pour un beau sans-coeur." He also composed film scores, including for the movie "Le Dernier Combat" directed by Luc Besson.

Jacno's influence on French music was far-reaching, with artists such as Etienne Daho and Serge Gainsbourg citing him as an inspiration. His legacy continues to inspire musicians and fans alike, cementing his status as an iconic figure in French music history.

Read more about Jacno on Wikipedia »

Abbie Hoffman

Abbie Hoffman (November 30, 1936 Worcester-April 12, 1989 Solebury Township) also known as abbie_hoffman, Abbott Howard Hoffman, Abbot Howard "Abbie" Hoffman or Hoffman, Abbie was an American writer, social activist, actor and psychologist. He had three children, Andrew Hoffman, Amy Hoffman and America Hoffman.

He died in suicide.

Abbie Hoffman was a key figure in the counterculture movement of the 1960s and 70s. He was a founder of the Youth International Party, also known as the Yippies, which aimed to create a society based on peace, love, and freedom. Hoffman was also a vocal opponent of the Vietnam War and participated in numerous protests and demonstrations against it.

Hoffman was known for his provocative and often humorous tactics, which included throwing dollar bills onto the floor of the New York Stock Exchange and attempting to levitate the Pentagon by chanting and playing music. He wrote several books, including "Steal This Book" and "Revolution for the Hell of It," which became bibles for the counterculture movement.

Later in life, Hoffman struggled with bipolar disorder and depression, and in 1989, he died by suicide. Despite his controversial tactics and occasional run-ins with the law, Hoffman is often remembered as a symbol of resistance and anti-establishment ideals.

Read more about Abbie Hoffman on Wikipedia »

Barton Booth

Barton Booth (April 5, 1681-May 10, 1733) was an English actor.

Born in London, Booth began his acting career in the early 1700s, performing in various plays and productions across the city. He quickly gained popularity for his versatile acting skills, and went on to become one of the leading actors of his time.

Booth was perhaps best known for his portrayal of tragic characters, and was a noted interpreter of Shakespeare's works - a particular favorite being the character of Richard III. He was also renowned for his excellent voice, and was often praised for his declamatory style of delivery.

In addition to his acting talents, Booth was also a skilled stage manager and director, often taking on these roles for productions in which he starred.

Booth's career was cut short by his sudden death at the age of 52, which was reportedly caused by a fever. Despite his relatively short time in the profession, his contributions to the world of theatre earned him a place in history as one of the great actors of his era.

Read more about Barton Booth on Wikipedia »

Don Simpson

Don Simpson (October 29, 1943 Seattle-January 19, 1996 Bel-Air) also known as Don, Donald Clarence "Don" Simpson, Donald C. Simpson or Donald Clarence Simpson was an American screenwriter, actor and film producer.

He died as a result of drug overdose.

Simpson began his career as a producer in the late 1970s, working on hit films such as "Flashdance" and "Beverly Hills Cop". He later formed a successful partnership with producer Jerry Bruckheimer, and together they produced a string of major blockbusters including "Top Gun", "Days of Thunder", and "Bad Boys". Simpson was known for his larger-than-life personality and extravagant lifestyle, which often drew controversy in the media. His death was widely mourned in the entertainment industry, and his contributions to Hollywood were remembered fondly by his colleagues and admirers.

Read more about Don Simpson on Wikipedia »

Ross Bagdasarian, Sr.

Ross Bagdasarian, Sr. (January 27, 1919 Fresno-January 16, 1972 Beverly Hills) otherwise known as Rostom Sipan Bagdasarian, David Seville, Ross Bagdasarian, Rostom Sipan "Ross" Bagdasarian or Seville, David was an American record producer, songwriter, singer, actor, pianist and screenwriter. He had two children, Ross Bagdasarian, Jr. and Carol Bagdasarian.

He died in myocardial infarction.

Bagdasarian is best known for creating The Chipmunks, a fictional music group consisting of animated anthropomorphic chipmunks, Alvin, Simon, and Theodore. He first introduced the characters in 1958 with the release of the novelty Christmas song "The Chipmunk Song (Christmas Don't Be Late)". The song topped the charts and won three Grammy Awards. Bagdasarian went on to release several successful albums featuring The Chipmunks and also created a television series and several feature films.

Prior to his success with The Chipmunks, Bagdasarian had a career as a songwriter and musician, composing songs for popular artists such as Rosemary Clooney, Doris Day, and Nat King Cole. He also acted in several films, including Alfred Hitchcock's Rear Window.

In addition to his entertainment career, Bagdasarian was also a decorated veteran, having served as a Technical Sergeant in the U.S. Army during World War II.

Read more about Ross Bagdasarian, Sr. on Wikipedia »

Lino Brocka

Lino Brocka (April 3, 1939 Pilar, Sorsogon-May 21, 1991 Quezon City) a.k.a. Lino Brocka Ortiz, Catalino Ortiz Brocka or Lino O. Brocka was a Filipino film director, screenwriter and actor.

Considered as one of the greatest directors in the history of Philippine cinema, Lino Brocka directed over 60 films throughout his career, including some notable works such as "Tinimbang Ka Ngunit Kulang" (You Were Weighed But Found Wanting), "Maynila sa mga Kuko ng Liwanag" (Manila in the Claws of Light), and "Insiang". He was also a vocal social activist and a critic of Ferdinand Marcos' government, which led him to be arrested and detained during the martial law era in the Philippines. In 1983, he was the first Southeast Asian filmmaker to be invited to the Cannes Film Festival, where his film "Bayan Ko: Kapit sa Patalim" (My Country: Hanging by a Thread) was screened. Brocka died in a car accident in 1991 at the age of 52, leaving behind a legacy that continues to influence Philippine cinema today.

Read more about Lino Brocka on Wikipedia »

Ken Ober

Ken Ober (July 3, 1957 Brookline-November 16, 2009 Santa Monica) was an American actor and comedian.

He is best known for being the host of the MTV game show "Remote Control" in the late 1980s. Ober also appeared in several movies and TV shows, including "The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air," "Parenthood," and "Who's the Boss?" He started his career in stand-up comedy at the age of 21 and won the first round of Star Search in 1984. In addition to his work in entertainment, Ober was an avid tennis player and even competed in the U.S. Open National Playoffs in both singles and doubles competitions. Ober passed away in 2009 at the age of 52 due to cardiac arrest. His legacy in the entertainment industry continues to be celebrated by many.

Read more about Ken Ober on Wikipedia »

Stanley DeSantis

Stanley DeSantis (July 6, 1953 Roslyn-August 16, 2005 Los Angeles) also known as Stanley De Santis or Stanley Desantis was an American actor and businessperson.

He died as a result of myocardial infarction.

DeSantis was born in Roslyn, New York and grew up in Dix Hills. He graduated from Half Hollow Hills High School East in 1971 and later attended the State University of New York at Oneonta, where he received a bachelor's degree in theatre. He began his acting career in the early 1980s, and appeared in many films and television shows, such as "The Wedding Planner," "The Aviator," "The X-Files," "Seinfeld," and "The West Wing."

In addition to his acting career, DeSantis was also a successful businessperson. He co-owned and operated an advertising agency called L.A. ADS, which worked with clients such as BMW, Coca-Cola, and McDonald's.

DeSantis was known for his larger-than-life personality and unique sense of humor, which made him a beloved figure in the entertainment industry. He was also actively involved in various charitable organizations, such as the Trevor Project, which provides crisis support to LGBTQ youth.

His sudden passing in 2005 at the age of 52 was a shock to his friends and colleagues in Hollywood, who mourned his loss and remembered him as a talented actor and a kind-hearted person.

Read more about Stanley DeSantis on Wikipedia »

Pete McCarthy

Pete McCarthy (November 9, 1951 Warrington-October 6, 2004 Brighton) a.k.a. Peter Charles McCarthy Robinson, Cliff Hanger or Peter McCarthy was an English actor, comedian, presenter and writer.

He died caused by cancer.

Pete McCarthy began his career as a performer in the late 1970s, appearing in clubs and on the comedy circuit. He gained wider recognition in the 1990s with his travel book "McCarthy's Bar," in which he chronicled his journey around Ireland, visiting pubs and meeting locals. The book became a best-seller and inspired a BBC television series, "Pete McCarthy's Ireland," in which he explored different regions of the country.

In addition to his travel writing, McCarthy also wrote novels and appeared in films, including "The Commitments" and "The Butcher Boy." He was a popular presenter on BBC Radio 4, hosting programs such as "Home Truths" and "Desert Island Discs."

McCarthy's humor and irreverent personality made him a beloved figure in the UK entertainment industry. He continued to work until his death in 2004 at the age of 52, leaving behind a legacy of witty writing and memorable performances.

Read more about Pete McCarthy on Wikipedia »

Harry Revel

Harry Revel (December 21, 1905 London-November 3, 1958 New York City) was an English composer, film score composer and actor.

He composed music for over 20 films in Hollywood, including such notable classics as "Kiss Me Deadly" and "Tammy and the Bachelor." As a songwriter, Revel collaborated with many popular lyricists and entertainers of his time, including Bing Crosby, Doris Day, and Judy Garland. Revel even co-wrote the popular song "The Nearness of You" with Hoagy Carmichael. In addition to composing and songwriting, Revel also acted in a handful of films, including a cameo in "The Great Ziegfeld." Despite his success in Hollywood, Revel suffered and battled with alcoholism for many years, which ultimately lead to his untimely death at the age of 52. Despite his struggles, his contributions to film music and popular culture during his lifetime continue to be remembered and celebrated today.

Read more about Harry Revel on Wikipedia »

Harry Houdini

Harry Houdini (March 24, 1874 Budapest-October 31, 1926 Detroit) also known as Erik Weisz, Ehrich Weiss or Harry Weiss was a Hungarian pilot, historian, stunt performer, actor, magician, escapology and film producer.

He died caused by peritonitis.

Houdini is widely regarded as one of the greatest magicians and escapologists in history, known for his daredevil stunts such as escaping from a straightjacket while suspended upside-down from a crane and escaping from a water-filled milk can. He also gained fame for his ability to escape from handcuffs, chains, and other restraints.

Aside from his career in magic and escapology, Houdini was also an outspoken critic of spiritualism and claimed to have debunked many fraudulent mediums. He even offered a cash prize to anyone who could demonstrate genuine supernatural powers, but the prize was never claimed.

Houdini's life and career have been the subject of numerous books, films, and television shows, and his legacy as a master showman and escape artist continues to inspire performers and entertainers today.

Read more about Harry Houdini on Wikipedia »

Related articles