Famous movie actors died in the year 1978
Here are 50 famous actors from the world died in 1978:
Tim McCoy
Tim McCoy (April 10, 1891 Saginaw-January 29, 1978 Fort Huachuca) also known as Timothy John Fitzgerald McCoy, Col. Tim McCoy, Col. T.J. McCoy, Colonel Tim McCoy, Timothy John Fitzgerald "Tim" McCoy or High Eagle was an American actor, military officer and presenter. He had five children, Gerald McCoy, Margarita McCoy, Ronnie McCoy, Terry McCoy and D'Arcy McCoy.
Tim McCoy was an accomplished actor who appeared in over 100 films, mostly Westerns. He was also a decorated military officer, having served in both World War I and World War II. In addition to his acting career, he was a popular radio and television personality, hosting his own series, "The Tim McCoy Show," in the 1950s. McCoy was also known for his expert horsemanship and was a longtime advocate for the preservation of the Western way of life. He passed away in 1978 at the age of 86.
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Wallace MacDonald
Wallace MacDonald (May 5, 1891 Mulgrave-October 30, 1978 Santa Barbara) a.k.a. Wheeler MacDonald, Wallace McDonald, Wallace Archibald MacDonald, Wallace Macdonald or Wallace Mac Donald was a Canadian film producer, actor, screenwriter and film director.
He began his career as an actor with the Biograph Company in 1910, and by 1914, had become a director for the company. MacDonald went on to direct and star in many silent films, including "The Twin Triangle" (1915) and "Human Hearts" (1922). He also acted in numerous Hollywood films, including "The Phantom of the Opera" (1925) and "The Scarlet Letter" (1934). In the 1930s, MacDonald transitioned to producing, working on films such as "Bulldog Drummond Strikes Back" (1934) and "The Lone Ranger Rides Again" (1939). MacDonald continued to work in the film industry until his death in 1978.
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Oskar Homolka
Oskar Homolka (August 12, 1898 Vienna-January 27, 1978 Sussex) also known as Oscar Homolka was an Austrian actor. He had two children, Vincent Homolka and Laurence Homolka.
Homolka began his career in the late 1910s as a stage actor in Vienna before transitioning to film in the 1920s. He gained international recognition for his performance as Buchholz in Jean Renoir's film "La Grande Illusion" (1937). Homolka eventually moved to Hollywood in 1940 and appeared in numerous films throughout the 1940s and 1950s, including "The Invisible Man Returns" (1940), "I Remember Mama" (1948), and "The Seven Year Itch" (1955). Homolka also had a successful career on Broadway, appearing in productions such as "The Price" (1968). He continued to act in films until shortly before his death in 1978.
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Jay Adler
Jay Adler (September 26, 1896 New York City-September 23, 1978 Woodland Hills) was an American actor.
He started his career in vaudeville and worked his way up to Broadway productions. Adler then appeared in over 100 films, often in supporting roles but sometimes in lead roles. Some of his notable films include "The Big Combo" (1955), "The Killing" (1956), and "Sweet Smell of Success" (1957). In addition to his film work, Adler also appeared in numerous television shows in the 1950s and 1960s, including "The Twilight Zone" and "Perry Mason." He was also a founding member of the Screen Actors Guild.
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Chief Tahachee
Chief Tahachee (March 4, 1904 Crittenden County-June 9, 1978 San Gabriel) was an American writer, author and actor.
Born Harry Behn, Chief Tahachee was of Cherokee descent and took on his Native American name in his adulthood. He wrote several novels, screenplays and short stories based on Native American folklore and history. His most well-known work is the children's book "The Story of Little Big Man," which was also adapted into a movie in 1970. Tahachee also worked as a consultant and actor for Western films, often playing Native American characters. He was active in advocating for the rights of Indigenous people throughout his life.
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Daniel Reed
Daniel Reed (July 12, 1892 Colorado-February 9, 1978 Montrose) a.k.a. Daniel Aloysius Reed or Dan Reed was an American screenwriter, film director and actor. He had two children, Jared Reed and Susan Reed.
Reed started his career in the entertainment industry as an actor in silent films, often playing minor roles. He eventually transitioned into screenwriting and directing, becoming known for his work on westerns and action films. Some of his best-known films include "The Savage," "The Baron of Arizona," and "The Steel Helmet."
In addition to his work in the film industry, Reed was also an active member of his community. He served as mayor of Montrose, Colorado for several years and was known for his philanthropic efforts in the area. Despite his success in Hollywood, Reed remained dedicated to his hometown and his family throughout his life. He passed away in 1978 at the age of 85.
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Paul McGrath
Paul McGrath (April 11, 1904 Chicago-April 13, 1978 London) also known as Paul Owen McGrath was an American actor.
He appeared in over 150 films and television shows throughout his career, often playing tough or villainous characters. McGrath began his acting career on the stage in New York City, appearing in numerous Broadway productions in the 1930s and 1940s. He then transitioned into film and television, appearing in classic films such as "The Postman Always Rings Twice" and "The Manchurian Candidate". McGrath also had a successful television career, appearing in popular shows like "The Twilight Zone", "Perry Mason", and "The Rifleman". After his death in 1978, McGrath was posthumously awarded a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame.
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Leslie Fenton
Leslie Fenton (March 12, 1902 Liverpool-March 25, 1978 Montecito) also known as Leslie Carter Fenton was an American film director and actor.
He began his career as an actor, appearing in over 50 films throughout the 1920s and 1930s. Fenton made the transition to directing in the early 1940s and directed several films including The Return of Frank James (1940) and Street to Nowhere (1947). He also directed episodes for popular television series such as Gunsmoke, Perry Mason, and The Twilight Zone. In addition, Fenton was a highly decorated veteran of World War II, serving in the Royal Air Force and receiving several medals for his service.
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Derrick De Marney
Derrick De Marney (September 21, 1906 London-February 18, 1978 London) also known as Derrick deMarney or Derrick de Marney was a British actor and film producer.
De Marney began his acting career on stage and later transitioned to film in the 1930s. He starred in films such as Hitchcock's "Young and Innocent" (1937) and "Jamaica Inn" (1939), as well as "Fire Over England" (1937) and "The Four Feathers" (1939).
During World War II, De Marney joined the Royal Air Force and served as a pilot. After the war, he formed his own production company, de Marney Productions, and produced and acted in several films, including "The Loves of Joanna Godden" (1947) and "Penny and the Pownall Case" (1948).
De Marney also made numerous television appearances in shows such as "The Adventures of Robin Hood" and "The Saint". In addition to his acting and producing career, he was also a talented artist and exhibited his work in several galleries.
De Marney died in London in 1978 at the age of 71.
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Jack Woolgar
Jack Woolgar (September 15, 1913 Thames Ditton-July 14, 1978 Huddersfield) was a British actor.
Woolgar began his career as a stage actor, performing in various productions in the West End and on Broadway. He later transitioned to film and television, and appeared in over 60 productions throughout his career. Woolgar was known for his distinctive voice and played a wide range of roles, from stern authority figures to comic characters.
Some of his notable film appearances include "The Day the Earth Caught Fire" (1961), "A Hard Day's Night" (1964), and "The Dirty Dozen" (1967). He also had recurring roles on popular TV shows such as "The Avengers" and "Dixon of Dock Green."
Outside of his acting career, Woolgar was a founding member of the Actors' Equity Association and served as its president from 1969 to 1972. He was also an accomplished painter and exhibited his work at various galleries.
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Keith Moon
Keith Moon (August 23, 1946 Wembley-September 7, 1978 Westminster) also known as Moon The Loon, Moon, Keith, Keith John Moon, The Who or Nobby was a British drummer, musician, record producer, songwriter, composer, actor and model. He had one child, Amanda Jane Moon DeWolf.
Keith Moon is best known as the drummer for the influential British rock band, The Who. He was known for his explosive and unconventional drumming style, which often included smashing his drum kit on stage. He was also known for his wild antics off stage, which included destroying hotel rooms and causing chaos at parties.
Moon's career with The Who spanned from 1964 until his death in 1978. He played on all of the band's albums and was a key contributor to their sound and image. In addition to his work with The Who, Moon also played with other musicians and bands, such as Jeff Beck and Steve Stills.
Moon struggled with drug and alcohol addiction throughout his life, which likely contributed to his volatile behavior. He died of an overdose of pills at the age of 32. Despite his short life, Moon's impact on rock music has been significant, and he remains a beloved and influential figure in the genre.
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Ray Noble
Ray Noble (December 17, 1903 Brighton-April 3, 1978 London) otherwise known as Ray Nobel or Noble, Ray was a British composer, bandleader and actor.
He began his career in the 1920s as a popular dance band leader and songwriter, and by the 1930s was working in Hollywood as an arranger and composer for films. He wrote the music for several films, including "Love Is the Sweetest Thing" and "The Way You Look Tonight," which won an Academy Award for Best Original Song. He also played a small role in the film "The Big Broadcast of 1937." Noble returned to England to lead a band during World War II, and continued to perform and record throughout the 1950s and 1960s. He was a respected figure in the British music industry until his death in 1978.
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Duncan Lamont
Duncan Lamont (June 17, 1918 Lisbon-December 18, 1978 Royal Tunbridge Wells) otherwise known as Duncan William Ferguson Lamont was a Portuguese actor.
He grew up in Scotland and studied veterinary medicine before pursuing a career in acting. After serving in World War II, he began appearing in British films and television shows in the 1950s. Lamont was best known for his roles in "The Pink Panther Strikes Again" (1976), "You Only Live Twice" (1967), and "Five Million Years to Earth" (1967). He was also a prolific stage actor and appeared in numerous productions in London's West End. Lamont was married three times and had three children. He passed away in 1978 at the age of 60.
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Claude Dauphin
Claude Dauphin (August 19, 1903 Corbeil-Essonnes-November 16, 1978 Paris) also known as Claude Marie Eugene Dauphin or Claude Marie Eugène Legrand was a French actor, soldier and businessperson. He had two children, Antonia Dauphin and Jean-Claude Dauphin.
Claude Dauphin began his acting career in the 1920s and quickly became a prominent figure in French cinema, starring in over 120 films throughout his career. Some of his most notable roles include Monsieur Verdoux (1947), directed by Charlie Chaplin, and The Sicilian Clan (1969), directed by Henri Verneuil. In addition to his film work, Dauphin was also an accomplished stage actor, appearing in productions across Europe and the United States.
During World War II, Dauphin served in the French army and was captured by the Germans in 1940. He was held as a prisoner of war for three years before managing to escape and return to France. After the war, he continued his acting career and also became involved in business, founding a successful film distribution company.
Dauphin was a patron of the arts and supported many cultural institutions, including the Comédie-Française theater company. He was awarded the Legion of Honor in recognition of his contributions to French culture. Dauphin passed away in 1978 at the age of 75, leaving behind a legacy as one of the most respected actors of his generation.
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Francis X. Bushman, Jr.
Francis X. Bushman, Jr. (May 1, 1903 Baltimore-April 16, 1978 Los Angeles) also known as Ralph Everly Bushman, Francis X. Bushman Jr. or Ralph Bushman was an American actor. He had one child, Barbara Bushman.
Francis X. Bushman Jr. came from a family of actors. His father Francis X. Bushman was a well-known silent film star, and his sister Beverly Bayne was also an actress. Following in their footsteps, Bushman Jr. began acting in the 1920s and appeared in several films throughout his career.
In addition to acting, Bushman Jr. was also a pilot and served in World War II. He later became a successful businessman and served as president of the Screen Actors Guild from 1964 to 1974.
Bushman Jr. passed away in 1978 at the age of 74 in Los Angeles, California. Despite being overshadowed by the success of his father and sister, he was still a respected figure in the entertainment industry and left a lasting impact on Hollywood history.
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Theo Lingen
Theo Lingen (June 10, 1903 Hanover-November 10, 1978 Vienna) also known as Lingen, Theo or Franz Theodor Schmitz was a German actor, film director, screenwriter and musician. He had one child, Ursula Lingen.
Lingen began his career as a pianist and comedian, and made his first film appearance in 1927. He appeared in over 230 films over the course of his career, including notable roles in "The Congress Dances" (1931), "The Merry Widow" (1952), and "The Haunted Castle" (1960). In addition to his film work, Lingen also directed several films and wrote screenplays. He was a popular figure in German-speaking countries, and his comedic talents made him a beloved personality. In addition to his entertainment work, Lingen was also a member of the resistance during World War II, and worked to smuggle Jewish individuals out of Germany. After the war, he continued his entertainment career until his death in 1978 at the age of 75.
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O. E. Hasse
O. E. Hasse (July 11, 1903 Obrzycko-September 12, 1978 Berlin) also known as Otto Hasse, Otto Ed. Hasse, Otto Ernst Hasse, O.E. Hasse or O. E. Hasse was a German actor, theatre director and voice actor.
He began his acting career in 1926 and went on to become a prominent figure in Germany's theatrical scene. Hasse worked with several renowned theatre companies, including the Schauspielhaus Zürich and the Berliner Ensemble, and also directed productions of his own.
During his lengthy acting career, Hasse appeared in more than a hundred films, including some of Germany's most important post-war productions. His most memorable roles include Captain Wronski in "Anna Karenina," Judge from the First Instance in "The Confessions of Felix Krull," and Herr von Bohm in "The Marriage of Maria Braun."
Hasse was also an accomplished voice actor, lending his voice to the German versions of several international films, such as "Les Miserables" and "The Bridge on the River Kwai." In addition to his work in theatre and film, he also acted in several television productions.
He was married to the actress Margot Hielscher and the couple had one daughter. Hasse passed away in 1978 at the age of 75 in Berlin, Germany.
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Asbjørn Andersen
Asbjørn Andersen (August 30, 1903 Copenhagen-December 10, 1978 Denmark) also known as Hans Asbjørn Gammelmark Andersen was a Danish film director and actor.
Born in Copenhagen, Asbjørn Andersen started his career as a stage actor before transitioning into films. He appeared in more than 40 films in the 1920s and 1930s, mostly in supporting roles. In the 1940s, he started directing films and went on to direct 18 films throughout his career.
Andersen's most notable films include "De røde enge" (The Red Meadows) which was a critically acclaimed war drama released in 1945. He also directed the popular family film "Lille Virgil og Orla Frøsnapper" (Little Virgil and Orla Frogsnapper) which was released in 1957.
In addition to his work in film, Asbjørn Andersen was also involved in television and theater productions, and was a prolific writer of plays and screenplays. He was awarded the prestigious Dannebrogordenen (Order of the Dannebrog) in 1969 for his contributions to Danish culture.
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Ego Brønnum-Jacobsen
Ego Brønnum-Jacobsen (March 24, 1905 Copenhagen-March 25, 1978 Denmark) was a Danish actor.
He started his acting career in silent films in the 1920s and went on to become a prominent figure in Danish cinema during the 1930s and 1940s, working with acclaimed directors such as Carl Theodor Dreyer and Benjamin Christensen. His versatility as an actor allowed him to play a wide range of roles in his long and illustrious career, including comedic and dramatic roles. In addition to film, he also appeared on stage and in television productions. He won several awards for his contributions to Danish cinema, including the Bodil Award for Best Actor in a Leading Role. Brønnum-Jacobsen was married to Danish actress Karin Nellemose from 1936 until his death in 1978.
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Peter Vogel
Peter Vogel (March 22, 1937 Munich-September 21, 1978 Vienna) was a German actor. His child is called Nikolas Vogel.
Peter Vogel began his acting career in the 1960s with the Munich Kammerspiele Theater Company. He was known for his roles in avant-garde and experimental theater productions. Vogel also appeared in several films, including "Kir Royal" (1986) and "Zwei Münchner in Hamburg" (1989). Tragically, Vogel's life was cut short when he died at the age of 41 due to a heart attack in Vienna. Despite his brief career, Vogel is remembered as a talented and innovative actor who made important contributions to German theater and cinema. His son Nikolas Vogel followed in his father's footsteps and also became an actor.
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Ewald Balser
Ewald Balser (October 5, 1898 Elberfeld-April 17, 1978 Vienna) was a German actor.
He began his acting career on stage in Germany before transitioning to film in the 1930s. Balser appeared in over 100 films throughout his career, often playing authoritative or intellectual characters. He is perhaps best known for his portrayal of Emperor Francis Joseph I of Austria in the 1955 film "Sissi" and its sequels. Balser also had a successful career in Austria, appearing in numerous productions at the Burgtheater in Vienna. He was highly respected by his peers and was awarded the title Kammerschauspieler (chamber actor) by the Austrian government in 1952.
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Ivan Pereverzev
Ivan Pereverzev (August 21, 1914 Znamensky District, Oryol Oblast-April 23, 1978 Moscow) a.k.a. Ivan Fyodorovich Pereverzev, Irving Perev or I. Pereverzev was a Soviet actor. He had three children, Sergei Pereverzev, Alyona Pereverzeva and Fedor Pereverzev.
Pereverzev graduated from the Moscow Art Theatre School in 1936 and started his acting career at the Central Children's Theatre. He later became a member of the Vakhtangov Theatre and the Moscow Art Theatre, where he performed in numerous plays and films over the course of his career. He was known for his versatility as an actor and his ability to play both comedic and dramatic roles. Some of his notable film appearances include "The Girl No. 217" (1945), "Spring on Zarechnaya Street" (1956), and "Anna Karenina" (1967). Pereverzev was awarded the title of Honored Artist of the RSFSR in 1958 and was posthumously awarded the title of People's Artist of the RSFSR in 1979.
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Yuan Muzhi
Yuan Muzhi (March 3, 1909 Ningbo-January 30, 1978 Beijing) also known as Muzhi Yuan, Yuán Mùzhī or man with a thousand faces was a Chinese actor, film director and screenwriter. His children are called Munu Yuan, XiaoMu Yuan and MuNan Yuan.
Yuan Muzhi started his career in the film industry in Shanghai in 1930 as an actor. He later became a scriptwriter and director working for Lianhua Studio. His directorial debut was the film "Xiao Wu" in 1935, and he became known for his socially conscious films that brought attention to social issues.
In 1949, after the establishment of the People's Republic of China, Yuan Muzhi moved to Beijing and joined the newly formed China Film Bureau. He continued to direct films and is known for his famous works such as "Street Angel" (1937) and "Spring River Flows East" (1947).
Yuan Muzhi was also a prominent figure in China's film industry as he played a crucial role in the development of the Chinese Film Archive. In 1956, he was appointed as the director of the Beijing Film Academy, where he taught future generations of filmmakers.
Despite his contribution to Chinese cinema, Yuan Muzhi's work was criticized during the Cultural Revolution, and he was persecuted and forced to publicly denounce his earlier work. However, he was later rehabilitated and recognized for his achievements in the film industry.
Yuan Muzhi passed away on January 30, 1978, in Beijing, leaving behind a legacy that helped shape China's film industry.
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Vasili Merkuryev
Vasili Merkuryev (April 6, 1904 Ostrov, Ostrovsky District, Pskov Oblast-May 12, 1978 Saint Petersburg) also known as Vassili Merkouriev, Vasili Vasilyevich Merkuryev, V. Merkuryev, Vasiliy Merkurev or Vasili Merkuryev was a Soviet actor and theatre director. He had six children, Pyotr Merkuryev, Evgeniy Merkurev, Anna Merkuryeva, Yekaterina Merkuryeva, Vitaly Merkuryev and Natalya Merkuryeva.
Merkuryev began his acting career in the 1920s and quickly rose to prominence as a leading actor in Soviet cinema. He starred in several critically acclaimed films, including "The Return of Maxim" (1937) and "Alexander Nevsky" (1938), both directed by Sergei Eisenstein.
In addition to his work in cinema, Merkuryev was also a prolific theater director, working at the Leningrad Comedy Theater and the Bolshoi Drama Theater in Moscow. He was known for his innovative approach to theater and his ability to bring out the best in his actors.
Despite his success in the Soviet Union, Merkuryev was not immune to the political upheavals of the time. He was briefly arrested during Stalin's purges in the late 1930s and was forced to publicly denounce some of his colleagues in order to save himself.
After World War II, Merkuryev's career continued to thrive, and he remained active in cinema and theater until his death in 1978. He was awarded the title of People's Artist of the USSR in 1958 and was honored with the Order of Lenin and other prestigious awards for his contributions to Soviet culture.
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Noble Johnson
Noble Johnson (April 18, 1881 Marshall-January 9, 1978 Yucaipa) also known as Noble M. Johnson, Mark Noble or Noble Mark Johnson was an American actor, film producer, entrepreneur and writer.
He was one of the few African American actors in Hollywood during the early 20th century and often played stereotypical roles such as Native Americans and Africans on screen. Despite this, he became a successful character actor and appeared in over 140 films throughout his career.
Johnson started his career in vaudeville before transitioning to film in the early days of the silent era. He worked alongside famous actors like Lon Chaney and Douglas Fairbanks, and was even a founding member of the Screen Actors Guild. As a producer, he co-founded the Lincoln Motion Picture Company, which produced and distributed films featuring African American actors.
In addition to his work in film, Johnson was an accomplished writer, penning articles on the film industry for newspapers and magazines. He also co-wrote a book called "Black Hollywood: The Negro in Motion Pictures" which detailed the history of African Americans in Hollywood.
Later in life, Johnson retired to his ranch in Yucaipa, California, where he bred and trained horses. He died in 1978 at the age of 96.
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Abbas Fares
Abbas Fares (April 22, 1902 Egypt-February 13, 1978 Cairo) was an Egyptian actor.
He began his acting career on stage in the late 1920s and went on to become one of the most prominent actors of Egypt's Golden Age of cinema in the 1940s and '50s. Fares appeared in over 150 films throughout his career, often playing villainous and comedic roles. Some of his most famous films include "El-Ajouzah," "El-Zouga El-Talattashar," and "Kursi El-Aql." Fares was known for his ability to adapt to any character and was beloved by both audiences and fellow performers. In addition to his work in film, he was also a pioneer in Egyptian radio drama and had a successful career as a voice actor. Fares was awarded the Order of Merit, the highest honor bestowed upon an artist in Egypt, in recognition of his contributions to Egyptian culture.
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Ed Wood
Ed Wood (October 10, 1924 Poughkeepsie-December 10, 1978 North Hollywood) also known as Edward Davis Wood, Jr., Edward Davis "Ed" Wood, Jr., Ed Woods, Akdon Telmig, Dick Trent, Don Miller, E.D. Wood, Daniel Davis, Akdov Telmig, Edward Everett, Pete LaRoche, Edw. D. Wood Jr., Flint Holloway, Ed Wood Jr., Eddie, Edward D. Wood Jr., The World's Worst Director or Woody was an American author, screenwriter, film producer, film director, actor, writer and film editor. His child is called Kathleen Emily Wood.
Wood is best known for his work in the horror and science fiction genres, particularly his low-budget and often critically panned films such as Plan 9 from Outer Space, Glen or Glenda, and Bride of the Monster. Despite their poor reception at the time, Wood's films have since gained a cult following and are beloved for their campy charm and unintentional humor.
In addition to his work in film, Wood is also remembered for his colorful personal life, which included a brief stint in the United States Marine Corps, cross-dressing, and a lifelong struggle with alcoholism. He died from heart failure at the age of 54, but his legacy has continued to live on through his films and the many homages and parodies they have inspired over the years.
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Gig Young
Gig Young (November 4, 1913 St. Cloud-October 19, 1978 Manhattan) a.k.a. Byron Elsworth Barr, Gig, Byron Barr, Ronald Reed or Bryant Fleming was an American actor. He had one child, Jennifer Young.
Gig Young began his acting career in the 1940s and appeared in several movies including "Come Fill the Cup" (1951) and "Desk Set" (1957). He received critical acclaim for his performance in the film "Teacher's Pet" (1958) which earned him an Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actor.
Young continued to act in movies and television throughout the 1960s and 1970s, appearing in popular shows such as "The Twilight Zone" and "The Wild Wild West". He also received another Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actor for his role in "They Shoot Horses, Don't They?" (1969).
Despite his success on the big screen, Young's personal life was plagued by problems, including several failed marriages and battles with addiction. Tragically, he died by suicide in 1978 at the age of 64.
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Tadeusz Fijewski
Tadeusz Fijewski (July 14, 1911 Warsaw-November 12, 1978 Warsaw) also known as Tadzio Fijewski was a Polish actor.
He began his acting career in the 1930s and became a popular film and theater actor in Poland during the 1950s and 1960s. Fijewski played a variety of roles, from lead characters to supporting roles, but was particularly renowned for his work in comedies. He was also an accomplished stage actor, having performed in numerous plays throughout his career, including classic works by Shakespeare and Molière.
In addition to his acting work, Fijewski was a talented singer and recorded several musical albums throughout his career. He was also a skilled painter and sculptor, and his artwork was exhibited in galleries throughout Poland.
Despite his success as an actor and artist, Fijewski was known for his modest and unassuming persona, and was often described as a humble and gracious individual by those who knew him. He passed away in 1978 at the age of 67 in his hometown of Warsaw, leaving behind a legacy as one of Poland's most celebrated actors.
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Vladislav Dvorzhetsky
Vladislav Dvorzhetsky (April 26, 1939 Omsk-May 28, 1978 Gomel) a.k.a. Vladislav Vazlavovich Dvorzhetsky, Vladislav Dvorjetzki or Vladislav Dvorzhetskiy was a Soviet actor. His children are called Aleksandr Dvorzhetsky, Lidia Dvorzhetskaya and Dmitri Dvorzhetsky.
Vladislav Dvorzhetsky was born into a family of actors and made his acting debut on stage during his teenage years. He later went on to join the State Theatre of Film Actor and began his acting career in movies. Dvorzhetsky was best known for his roles in the popular Soviet TV series "Seventeen Moments of Spring" and "The Meeting Place Cannot Be Changed". He also starred in numerous movies, such as "The Pokrovsky Gate", "Kin-Dza-Dza!", and "The Irony of Fate". Dvorzhetsky was a talented actor who brought depth and nuance to his roles, and his untimely death at the age of 39 was a great loss to the Soviet and Russian entertainment industry.
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Jacques Brel
Jacques Brel (April 8, 1929 Schaerbeek-October 9, 1978 Bobigny) also known as Jaques Brel, Jacques Romain Georges Brel or Abbé Brel was a Belgian actor, singer-songwriter, film score composer, film director and screenwriter. He had three children, Chantal Brel, Isabelle Brel and France Brel.
Brel is widely regarded as a master of the modern chanson, a French style of music characterized by its poetic lyrics and cabaret style. He rose to fame in the 1950s, with hits such as "Ne me quitte pas" ("Don't Leave Me"), "La chanson des vieux amants" ("The Song of Old Lovers") and "Le Moribond" ("The Dying Man"). His music was infused with deep emotion and social commentary, and he often tackled controversial topics such as death, love, sex, and politics.
In addition to his music career, Brel was also a celebrated actor, starring in several French films including "La Bande à Bonnot" and "Franz". He also directed and wrote the screenplay for the film "Franz".
Brel was known for his intense, often theatrical performances and his powerful baritone voice. Despite his international success, he remained a deeply private person and retired from performing in 1967 to focus on his family and writing. He later returned to the stage briefly in the 1970s before his untimely death from lung cancer at the age of 49. His legacy lives on, with many of his songs considered classics of French popular music.
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Louis Prima
Louis Prima (December 7, 1910 New Orleans-August 24, 1978 New Orleans) a.k.a. louis prima, Prima, Louis, louis_prima, Louis Prima with his Band, The King of the Swing or Luis Prima was an American singer, bandleader, trumpeter, actor and songwriter. He had four children, Louis Prima, Jr., Lena Prima, Toni Prima and Luanne Prima.
Prima began his career as a musician in the 1920s and gained popularity in the 1930s with his band the "New Orleans Gang." He later formed a successful partnership with singer Keely Smith in the 1950s, with hits such as "That Old Black Magic" and "Just a Gigolo/I Ain't Got Nobody." Prima was known for his energetic performances and his unique blend of jazz, swing, and pop music. His music has continued to be popular, with his song "Sing, Sing, Sing" featured in numerous movies and TV shows over the years. In addition to music, Prima also had a successful acting career, appearing in films such as "The Jungle Book." He was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1999.
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Edgar Bergen
Edgar Bergen (February 16, 1903 Decatur-September 30, 1978 Paradise) otherwise known as Edgar John Bergen, Edgar John Berggren, Eddie, Edgar John Bergren or Charlie McCarthy was an American actor, ventriloquist, comedian, radio personality, voice actor and comic book creator. He had two children, Candice Bergen and Kris Bergen.
Bergen rose to fame in the 1930s and 40s with his ventriloquist act, with Charlie McCarthy as his main character. He regularly appeared on radio shows such as The Chase and Sanborn Hour and The Charlie McCarthy Show, where he would perform with his puppet. He also appeared on television shows and in movies, including Fun and Fancy Free and I Remember Mama.
Aside from his ventriloquism career, Bergen was also a creator of comic books. He created and wrote the comic book series, "Charlie McCarthy and Mortimer Snerd" in the 1940s. Bergen was a talented performer and was known for his impeccable timing and wit. He continued to perform and make appearances until his death in 1978.
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Robert Shaw
Robert Shaw (August 9, 1927 Westhoughton-August 28, 1978 Toormakeady) also known as Robert Archibald Shaw was a British actor, novelist, screenwriter and teacher. He had ten children, Ian Shaw, Hannah Shaw, Colin Murray Shaw, Elizabeth Shaw, Deborah Shaw, Penny Shaw, Rachel Shaw, Katherine Shaw, Thomas Shaw and Charles Shaw.
Shaw first gained recognition for his portrayal of the character Grant in the film "From Russia with Love" (1963). He went on to appear in a number of other successful films, including "A Man for All Seasons" (1966) and "The Sting" (1973). As a writer, he penned several novels, including "The Hiding Place" (1960) and "The Man in the Glass Booth" (1967), both of which were adapted into successful plays.
In addition to his acting and writing, Shaw was also a dedicated teacher, and even ran his own drama school for a time in Ireland. Despite his many accomplishments, Shaw struggled with alcoholism for much of his life, and died of a heart attack at the relatively young age of 51. He is remembered today as one of Britain's most talented actors and writers, and left behind a legacy of memorable performances and literary works.
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Micheál Mac Liammóir
Micheál Mac Liammóir (October 25, 1899 London-March 6, 1978 Dublin) otherwise known as Micheal MacLiammoir, Micheál Liammóir, Alfred Willmore or Micheál MacLiammóir was an English writer and actor.
Mac Liammóir was born as Alfred Willmore in London to a Protestant family. He initially pursued a career in painting and even co-founded an avant-garde group called "The Gate Theatre Studio". However, his true passion lied in acting and he eventually went on to become one of Ireland's most celebrated stage actors. He was a prominent member of the Abbey Theatre, where he performed in over 300 productions, and was also a co-founder of the Gate Theatre in Dublin. Mac Liammóir was also a prolific writer, penning several plays, novels, and autobiographical works. He even co-wrote the screenplay for the classic film "Orson Welles' Othello" with Welles himself. Mac Liammóir was openly gay at a time when homosexuality was illegal in Ireland and his life and work were greatly influenced by his sexuality. He died in Dublin in 1978, leaving behind a legacy as one of Ireland's most important cultural figures.
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John Cazale
John Cazale (August 12, 1935 Revere-March 12, 1978 New York City) also known as John Holland Cazale was an American actor.
He appeared in only five films during his career, all of which were nominated for the Academy Award for Best Picture: The Godfather, The Conversation, The Godfather Part II, Dog Day Afternoon, and The Deer Hunter. His role as Fredo Corleone in The Godfather films is widely regarded as his most iconic and memorable performance. Cazale was diagnosed with lung cancer during the production of The Deer Hunter, but he continued to work on the film until he became too ill to do so. He died shortly after the film was completed, at the age of 42. Despite his short career, Cazale's talent and impact on cinema have continued to be celebrated, and he is remembered as one of the most gifted actors of his time.
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Thayer David
Thayer David (March 4, 1927 Medford-July 17, 1978 New York City) also known as David Thayer Hersey was an American actor.
He was born into a wealthy family in Medford, Massachusetts, and attended Harvard University. However, he dropped out after one year to pursue his passion for acting. David found success on stage and television, including a stint on the soap opera "Dark Shadows" where he played multiple roles. He also appeared in numerous films including "Rocky," "The Reivers," and "Journey into Fear."
David was known for his distinctive voice and intense performances, often playing villains or characters with dark motives. He was a respected stage actor as well, appearing in productions of "King Lear" and "Macbeth" among others.
Sadly, David died of a heart attack in 1978 at the age of 51. He left behind a legacy as a talented actor who made a significant impact on the entertainment industry.
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Jack Oakie
Jack Oakie (November 12, 1903 Sedalia-January 23, 1978 Los Angeles) also known as Lewis Delaney Offield, O (a) kie or Oakie was an American actor.
Born in Missouri, Oakie began his career in vaudeville before transitioning to film in the 1920s. He appeared in over 80 films during his career, often playing comedic roles and earning a reputation as a skilled improv performer. Some of his notable credits include "The Great Dictator" (1940), "The Texas Rangers" (1936), and "Once Upon a Honeymoon" (1942). Oakie was also a dedicated collector of Hollywood memorabilia, including costumes and props from films such as "Gone with the Wind" (1939). After his death in 1978, a portion of his collection was donated to the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences.
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Leo Genn
Leo Genn (August 9, 1905 London-January 26, 1978 London) also known as Leo John Genn was an English actor, voice actor, barrister and lawyer.
Leo Genn was born into a Jewish family, his parents emigrated from Lithuania to England in the late 19th century. Leo studied law and was called to the bar in 1928. He practiced as a barrister for several years, however, he was unhappy with his career. In the early 1930s, he started taking theater classes and became passionate about acting.
Leo Genn made his debut on stage in 1939 in the play "The First Gentleman". He made his film debut in 1940 in the movie "21 Days". He quickly gained popularity and became one of the most sought-after actors of his time.
During World War II, Leo served as a lieutenant in the Royal Artillery. After the war, he continued his acting career and appeared in several films including "Quo Vadis" (1951), "The Battle of the River Plate" (1956) and "The Angry Silence" (1960).
Aside from his acting career, Leo Genn was also a successful voice actor. He lent his voice to several films including "Jason and the Argonauts" (1963) and "The Mouse on the Moon" (1963).
Leo Genn was married twice and had two sons. He passed away in London in 1978 at the age of 72.
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Michael Bates
Michael Bates (December 4, 1920 Jhansi-January 11, 1978 Cambridge) was an Indian actor and soldier. He had one child, Rupert Bates.
Michael Bates' most notable role was as Chief Petty Officer "Perce" Pertwee in the popular British sitcom "The Navy Lark". Before becoming an actor, Bates served in the British Army during World War II and was taken as a prisoner of war by the Japanese in Singapore. He later wrote about his experiences in his autobiography "A Miracle Missed". Bates also appeared in several films including "A Clockwork Orange" and "The Spy Who Loved Me". He died at the age of 57 from cancer.
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Barry Brown
Barry Brown (April 19, 1951 San Jose-June 25, 1978 Silver Lake) also known as Donald Barry Brown or Baron was an American actor.
Barry Brown started his career in acting at a young age and quickly became a rising star in Hollywood in the 1970s. He appeared in several notable films including "The Bad News Bears", "Daisy Miller", and "The Ultimate Warrior". Brown was known for his naturalistic acting style and was highly respected by his peers in the industry.
Despite his promising career, Brown tragically died at the age of 27 when he was found dead in his apartment in Silver Lake due to a self-inflicted gunshot wound. His death came as a shock to many who had worked with him and who admired his talent. While his career was cut short, Brown's legacy as an actor has continued to live on, with his films still being watched and admired by audiences today.
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Ian MacDonald
Ian MacDonald (June 28, 1914 Great Falls-April 11, 1978 Bozeman) also known as Ladd Pippy was an American actor and film producer.
MacDonald began his acting career in the 1940s, appearing in several films including "Murder, My Sweet" and "The Big Sleep." He later transitioned to producing films, and was involved in producing some of the most successful movies of the 1960s and 1970s, including "The Dirty Dozen," "Soylent Green," and "Escape from the Planet of the Apes." MacDonald was also a co-founder of A.C. Lyles Productions, a film production company that specialized in Westerns. In addition to his work in the film industry, MacDonald was a noted philanthropist and supported a variety of charitable causes.
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Philip Ahn
Philip Ahn (March 29, 1905 Highland Park-February 28, 1978 Los Angeles) also known as Pil Lip Ahn, Phillip Ahn, Phil Ahn, Philson Wong, Philip Ann, An Pil-lip or An P'il-rip was an American actor and restaurateur.
He was the first Asian American male actor to be a regular on a television series, appearing on "The Korean Conflict" in 1952. Ahn also appeared in over 180 films and TV shows, including "Thoroughly Modern Millie" and "Kung Fu". He was renowned for his skill in martial arts and often played villains in his roles. In addition to his acting career, Ahn owned and ran a successful restaurant in Los Angeles called the Korea House. He was also a vocal advocate for Korean-American rights and served as an advisor to the Korean National Association. Ahn passed away in 1978 at the age of 72.
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Jack Hulbert
Jack Hulbert (April 24, 1892 Ely, Cambridgeshire-March 25, 1978 Westminster) also known as John Norman Hulbert or John Norman "Jack" Hulbert was an English actor and screenwriter.
Hulbert began his career in the theatre and later transitioned to film, becoming a popular star of British cinema in the 1930s. He often played charming and humorous leading men, and was known for his athleticism and skill at performing stunts. Along with his wife, actress Cicely Courtneidge, Hulbert appeared in several successful films and stage productions, including the 1937 film "Underneath the Arches" and the stage musical "Pennies From Heaven". Hulbert also wrote the screenplay for a few films, including "Venus in the East" (1929) and "Jack's the Boy" (1932). He continued to work in film and television throughout the 1940s and 1950s, frequently collaborating with Courtneidge. Hulbert was made an Officer of the Order of the British Empire in 1958 for his contributions to the entertainment industry.
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Ronnie Waldman
Ronnie Waldman (May 13, 1914 London-March 10, 1978) also known as Ronald Hartley Waldman or Ronald Waldman was a British actor and television producer.
Waldman started his career in the entertainment industry as an actor, appearing in various films and TV shows in the 1940s and 1950s. He later transitioned into producing television programs and was known for his work on popular shows such as The Benny Hill Show and The Morecambe & Wise Show. Waldman also produced several features films including The Best House in London (1969) and The Alf Garnett Saga (1972).
In addition to producing, Waldman also had a successful career as a talent manager and represented notable actors such as David Hemmings and Charlotte Rampling. He was known for his sharp business acumen and pioneering efforts in developing innovative talent management techniques.
Waldman passed away in 1978 at the age of 63. He is remembered for his influential and groundbreaking work in the entertainment industry, which helped pave the way for future generations of producers and talent managers.
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Wilfred Pickles
Wilfred Pickles (October 13, 1904 Halifax-March 26, 1978) was a British actor.
He was most famous for his role as a radio presenter on the BBC's "Have a Go" quiz show, which ran from 1946 to 1967. Pickles' affable Yorkshire charm endeared him to millions of listeners, and he became a household name in Britain. In addition to his broadcasting work, Pickles appeared in several films and television shows, including "Sons and Lovers" (1960) and "The Adventures of Robin Hood" (1955-1959). He was married to the actress Mabel Pickles, and the couple had two children together. Despite his success, Pickles remained down-to-earth and approachable, and his legacy continues to inspire broadcasters and entertainers today.
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Carl Betz
Carl Betz (March 9, 1921 Mt. Lebanon-January 18, 1978 Los Angeles) a.k.a. Carl Lawrence Betz was an American actor. He had two children, Richard Lawrence Betz and Rio Betz.
Betz was best known for his role as Dr. Alex Stone in the popular television series "The Donna Reed Show" which aired from 1958-1966. He won an Emmy Award for his performance in 1962. Betz also appeared in several films including "The Carpetbaggers," "All That Heaven Allows," and "The Silver Chalice." In addition to his acting career, Betz was also a talented singer and performed in musical theatre productions. He passed away from lung cancer at the age of 56.
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Shelly Novack
Shelly Novack (January 10, 1944 Los Angeles County-May 27, 1978 Santa Monica) also known as Sheldon Lennard Novack was an American american football player and actor.
Novack was a standout football player at the University of Idaho and was then drafted by the Atlanta Falcons in 1966. He also played for the New Orleans Saints and the Houston Oilers during his professional career. After retiring from football, Novack pursued a career in acting, appearing in various television shows and movies such as "Starsky and Hutch", "Wonder Woman", and "Sssssss". He was also a fitness enthusiast and worked as a personal trainer. Tragically, Novack was killed in a hit-and-run accident in 1978 at the age of 34.
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Bret Morrison
Bret Morrison (May 5, 1912 Chicago-September 25, 1978 Los Angeles) was an American actor and voice actor.
He was best known for his work on the radio drama "The Shadow," where he voiced the title character from 1943-1954. Morrison also had a successful career in film and television, appearing in over 50 movies and numerous TV shows. Some of his notable film credits include "The Enforcer" (1951), "The French Line" (1954), and "The Big Circus" (1959). On TV, he appeared in popular shows like "Perry Mason," "Gunsmoke," and "Adam-12." Morrison was also a talented stage actor, appearing in productions of "Hamlet," "Macbeth," and "King Lear" among others. Despite his diverse career, he is still most remembered for his iconic portrayal of "The Shadow" on the radio.
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Basil Dean
Basil Dean (September 27, 1888 Croydon-April 22, 1978 Westminster) otherwise known as Basil Herbert Dean or Basil Herbert Dean CBE was a British screenwriter, film director, film producer, writer, actor, theatrical producer and theatre director. He had one child, Winton Dean.
Basil Dean started his career as an actor, appearing in several stage performances in the early 1900s. He later began writing and producing plays, making his directorial debut in the West End in 1922 with the play "Tilly of Bloomsbury". Dean went on to produce and direct a number of successful productions in the 1920s and 1930s, including the hit musical "Mr. Cinders" in 1929.
In 1934, he co-founded Ealing Studios, which became one of the most renowned British film studios of its time. At Ealing, Dean produced some of the most important British films of the 1940s, including "The Next of Kin" (1942), "Went the Day Well?" (1942), and "The Halfway House" (1944). However, he resigned from the studio in 1945, unhappy with the creative direction it was taking.
After leaving Ealing, Dean continued to work in the film industry, directing several notable movies, including "The Years Between" (1946), "The Holly and the Ivy" (1952), and "The Weak and the Wicked" (1954). He also continued to work in the theatre, directing and producing a number of plays throughout the 1950s and 1960s.
Dean received numerous awards throughout his career, including a CBE (Commander of the Order of the British Empire) in 1957. He passed away in 1978 at the age of 89.
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