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Here's a look back at some of the folk who passed away during the year 2002. Some are famous and others not so famous. I picked those who struck me as interesting or those who have had an impact on my enjoyment of the movies.

JULIA PHILLIPS Died Jan. 1 2002

Julia Phillips, one of the most colorful and successful producers in Hollywood during the 70s died of cancer on Jan. 1, 2002. She had the balls to play with the big boys. She produced "Taxi Driver," "Close Encounters of the Third Kind" and the Best Picture Oscar Winner from 1973, "The Sting." After a while, the boys didn't like this girl playing on their playground. She sank into cocaine addiction from which she recovered. She wrote the autobiographical book "You'll Never Eat Lunch in this Town Again." Apparently she won't. Her book is a great read for an inside look at the seamy 70s in Hollywood. We've lost a brassy lady.

MEG WYLLIE Died Jan. 1, 2002

Veteran actress Meg Wyllie died at age 84 of heart failure. She had nearly 100 TV and film credits. Ms. Wyllie appeared in "Dragnet" as Tom Hanks’ mother. She was also in "The Last Starfighter," "Lipstick" and Alfred Hitchcock’s "Marnie." Ms. Wyllie also appeared in the first (rejected) TV pilot of  "Star Trek" in 1965.

NAUGHTIA CHILDS (MEGAN SERBIAN) Died Jan. 7, 2002

Like Shauna Grant and Savanna before her, apparently adult film actress Megan Serbian a.k.a. Naughtia Childs found life in porn unbearable. She allegedly committed suicide. Ms. Serbian went off a 4th floor apartment balcony in LA. Even though there is an official ruling of suicide, the LAPD has an open homicide investigation going in the case. Apparently Ms. Serbian's landing (feet first) and the distance from the ledge are a bit inconsistent with a jump. Prayers for her family and friends.

AVERY SCHREIBER Died Jan. 7, 2002

Crazy haired comedian Avery Schreiber died of a heart attack on January 7, 2002. He was half of the comedy of Burns and Schreiber whose greatest success took place during the 60s and 70s. They were famous for the "Huh?...Yeah...Huh?...Yeah..." routine. You'd know what I was talking about if you ever heard it. Schreiber was also the Doritos guy for a while.

My favorite cinematic vision of him was in Ringo Starr's over looked prehistoric comedy "Caveman." In one scene Schreiber is involved in a fight with a rival tribe. He falls in a fire and runs away from the camera screaming with his loin cloth on fire. Blue flames shoot out as he passes gas through the burning clothes. Great low brow comedy. He made me laugh.

MIKE MARMER Died Jan. 12, 2002

Emmy Award winning TV writer. According to IMDB he won an Emmy in 1972 for "The Carol Burnett Show." He also wrote for "Get Smart" according to IMDB. Marmer, along with Stan Burns created one of my favorite shows from way back when, "Lance Lot Link" about secret agent chimps. The newspaper listed a ton of other shows that he wrote for, but I have yet to confirm it. The 76 year old Marmer died of cancer.

TED DEMME Died Jan. 13, 2002

Film director Ted Demme, 37 year old nephew of Jonathan Demme died of a cocaine induced heart attack while playing basketball. Demme had directed feature films as well as TV movies and music videos. He last movie was last year's drug epic Blow. He also directed "The Ref," "Life," "Beautiful Girls" and "Snitch." He won an Emmy in 1999 for Outstanding Made For Television Movie: "A Lesson Before Dying." His widow is Amanda Scheer Demme, who was the musical supervisor on 20 films starting with "The Ref."

QUEENIE LEONARD Died Jan. 17, 2002

Born Pearl Walker, "Queenie Leonard" was a singer who appeared in nearly 50 films from 1931 to 1964. Her credits include "Moonlight Sonata" "The Lodger" "And Then There Were None" "The Notorious Landlady" and John Wayne's great safari film "Hatari." Ms. Leonard lent her vocal talents to Disney for two animated films: "Alice in Wonderland" and "101 Dalmatians." She also appeared without credit in numerous movies such as the great ghost story "The Uninvited" and her final film "My Fair Lady."

CARRIE HAMILTON Died Jan. 20, 2002

Carrie Hamilton, daughter of Carol Burnett died of cancer at age 38. She was a regular on the TV series fame during the 1986-87 season. She starred with her mother in the TV film "Hostage" in which she played the kidnapper. Her feature film credits include "Shag" with Bridget Fonda and Phoebe Cates. Folks like me who grew up watching her mother's variety show on TV remember watching Carrie grow up as her mother would occasionally bring her out at the end of the show to wave at the crowd. Prayers for her Mom and family at this time would be appreciated and helpful.

PEGGY LEE Died Jan. 21, 2002

One of the ballsiest women in show business. This platinum blond torch singer was an all around talent. She sang, danced and acted. 1955 was especially good to Ms. Lee. She was nominated for a Best Supporting Actress Oscar in the Jack Webb bio film "Pete Kelly's Blues." That same year she provided the voices for 'Darling,' 'Peg' and the Siamese cats in Disney's classic "Lady and the Tramp." She sang the show stopping number "He's a Tramp (But I Love Him)" in that movie. While Disney profited from her work, she didn't. In a classic case of David vs. Goliath, Ms. Lee took on Disney in court over royalties and won. You go girl. I still get goose-bumps when I hear he hit record "Fever." She lived a full 81 years which were full of triumph and tragedy. May she rest in peace. Plato said the unexamined life is not worth living. Ms. Lee lived a life worth living.

SHELDON ALLMAN Died Jan. 22, 2002

Near the end of Richard Brook's classic true-crime film "In Cold Blood," Robert Blake as killer Perry Smith talks to the prison pastor about how he both hated and loved his father. He will be executed in a matter of minutes. Blake is chilling as he talks in a matter-of-fact manner about this relationship. Raindrops are hitting the cell window. The shadow of the water rolling down the window washes across Blake's face giving the illusion of tears the killer can't shed. It is powerful filmmaking. Sharing the screen with Blake in the small but powerful role of Rev. Jim Post was actor and songwriter Sheldon Allman. Allman appeared in 12 movies including "Hud" with Paul Newman, "Nevada Smith" with Steve McQueen and "The Sons of Katie Elder" with John Wayne. All of these films are favorites of mine and were made all the better by Mr. Allman's presence. He also made appearances in numerous TV series during the 60s and 70s. However, Mr. Allman will be best remembered as the lyricist of one of the all-time great cartoon theme songs. "George, George, George of the Jungle, friend to you and me! Watch out for that tree!!" Mr. Allman also wrote the theme song for TV's talking horse "Mr. Ed." I thank him for entertaining me. Prayers to his family and friends.

ASTRID LINDGREN Died Jan. 28, 2002

Swedish author Astrid Lindgren died at age 94. She was a children's author who created numerous characters in series of books. Her best known creation was Pippi Longstocking. 56 movies and TV shows were made of her work from 1947 to the present. I was dragged to a couple of Pippi Longstocking movies with my kid sister back in the early 70s. The ones I saw were horrible, but by then I was already sneaking into R-rated movies and was not in the mood to baby-sit my bratty little sister. Ms. Lindgren worked for children's causes throughout her life. She outlived her husband and children.

HAROLD RUSSELL Died Jan. 29, 2002

One of my all time favorite movies is William Wyler's "The Best Years of Our Lives." The American classic follows three GIs from different stations in life re-adjusting to life after WWII. Harold Russell was a GI who lost both of his hands during the war. The vet was cast in a lead role in Wyler's film and won two Oscars that year. Russell won the Best Supporting Actor Oscar and a special Oscar on behalf of all disabled vets. Russell only made a few films after "Lives." In fact his second movie was 1980s "Inside Moves" with John Savage, which dealt with Vietnam vets adjusting to life after traumatic war experiences. Russell got into a tussle with the Academy when he auctioned off his Oscar in the early 90s to help pay his ailing wife's medical bills. He died of a heart attack. May he rest in piece.

HILDEGARD KNEF Died Feb. 1, 2002

Hildegard Knef was a German actress who enjoyed limited success in America. She appeared in Billy Wilder’s interesting misfire "Fedora." She also starred in the 1952 remake of the erotic silent film "Alurane." Ms. Knef caused a stir in Germany when she appeared nude in the film "The Story of a Sinner." She was condemned by the Catholic Church for her actions. She pointed her own finger back at the church’s inaction when she said: "I can't understand all that tumult - five years after Auschwitz!"

IRISH McCALLA Died Feb. 1, 2002

B-Movie actress Irish McCalla starred in the cult film "She Demons." I say it when I was six and hated it. My opinion of the film hasn’t changed. She also appeared in the horror film "Hands of a Stranger" about a pianist who loses his hands in an auto accident. His hands are replaced by the hands of a murdered criminal. The poor guy turns homicidal. Ms. McCalla was one of his sexy victims. Ms. McCalla was best known for her role on the TV series "Sheena: Queen of the Jungle."

GEORGE NADER Died Feb. 4, 2002

Michael Medved’s book "The Golden Turkey Awards" voted "Robot Monster" as in one of the worst films ever made. The film dealt with a monster (a man in an ape suit with a fish bowl on his head), which is controlled by a TV that sends messages with bubbles! Beefcake actor George Nader ‘s career never really recovered from that film. After a promising start as a leading man, Nader was relegated to lessor roles. He moved to Europe and had some success under the name Jerry Cotton.

GUY STOCKWELL Died Feb. 6, 2002

Guy was the brother of actor Dean Stockwell. His credits include Alejandro Jodorowski’s horror film "Santa Sangre," "Tobruk," "The War Lord" and the cult classic "It’s Alive."

BARRY FOSTER Died Feb. 11, 2002

Mr. Foster appeared in over 50 films during his long career. Credits include "The Battle of Britain" and "The Wild Geese." Mr. Foster’s most famous role was as the psycho killer in Alfred Hitchcock’s "Frenzy." Two of Mr., Foster’s children are actresses.

WAYLON JENNINGS Died Feb. 13, 2002

On Feb. 3, 1959, Waylon Jennings drew straws with "The Big Bopper" for a seat on the plane rented by Buddy Holly. Waylon lost and lived to tell about it. Mr. Jennings went on to become one of the biggest stars in the country music field. Mr. Jennings appeared in and/or composed music for over 20 films and TV shows. He sang the theme song for "The Dukes of Hazard." Say hi to Buddy.

HOWARD K. SMITH Died 15, 2002

Newsman Howard K. Smith witnessed most of the great events of the last half century. He was a voice of unbiased reason and morality in an industry filled with political syncopates. Mr. Smith came ion America’s living room and reported the news. Mr. Smith appeared in "The Best Little Whorehouse in Texas," "The Pursuit of D.B. Cooper," "Close Encounters of the Third Kind" "The Man," "The Best Man" and "The Candidate." Mr. Smith appeared in 9 episodes of the TV Sci-Fi series "V." Mr. Smith’s calm and reasoned presence will be missed.

LUCILLE LUND Died Feb. 15, 2002

I defy you to find a film as kinky and twisted as Edgar Ulmer’s horror classic "The Black Cat." Along with Tod Browning’s "Freaks," "The Black Cat" is about the only universal horror film from the 1930s that still packs a punch. Bela Lugosi and Boris Karloff do battle with each other in a satanic power struggle. Lucille Lund plays Lugosi’s wife and daughter. Karloff stole the wife and married the daughter. Lugosi wants revenge. He is also sexually drawn to his daughter because she looks just like his wife. Karloff has the wife in suspended animation in the dungeon. If you get the chance, catch this one on video.

FREDRIC STEINKAMP Died Feb. 20, 2002

Film editor Fredric Steinkamp helped several great directors achieve their vision. Steinkamp edited seven films for Sydney Pollack. Three of Steinkamp’s four Oscar nominations were for Pollack’s films. Steinkamp won the Best Editing Oscar for the 1967 racing film "Grand Prix." Steinkamp’s credits are amazing. He edited "They Shoot Horse, Don’t They?," "Charly," Billy Wilder’s "Fedora," "Three Days of the Condor," "The Yakuza," "The Firm," "Scrooged," "Out of Africa," "Tootsie," "Hide in Plain Sight," "The Unsinkable Molly Brown" and "Against All Odds." In addition to his Oscar, Mr. Steinkamp was nominated for four "Eddies" by the "America Cinema Editors." That organization gave Mr. Steinkamp the lifetime achievement award in 2001.

JOHN THAW Died Feb. 21, 2002

British actor John Thaw appeared in "The Bofurs Gun," the Vincent price horror film "Dr. Phibes Rises Again," "Cry Freedom" and Richard Attenbourough’s biopic "Chaplin." Mr. Thaw is most closely identified to his TV role "Inspector Morse." Mr. Thaw was nominated for several British Oscars (BAFTA) for his work on the "Inspector Morse" series and the film "Cry Freedom." Mr. Thaw won three times.

CHUCK JONES Died Feb. 22, 2002

Master animator Chuck Jones died of congestive heart failure at age 89. Mr., Jones creates such characters as Road Runner, Wile E.Coyote, Marvin Martian, Pep Le Pew, and Sam Sheepdog. While Mr. Jones didn’t create Bugs Bunny, Daffy Duck and Porky Pig he did keep them alive and well for millions of kids of all ages to enjoy. Mr. Jones received an Honorary Oscar in 1996, and won an Oscar for Best Short Subject: Cartoon for "Dot and the Line" in 1966. He shared that Oscar with Les Goldman.

MEL STEWART Died Feb. 24, 2002

I first noticed Mel Stewert in the Bill Cosby/Sidney Poitier comedy "Lets Do it Again" when I was an usher at the Memphian Theater in Memphis. Mr. Stewert played the trainer of ‘boxer’ J.J. Walker. The movie still makes me laugh. Mr. Stewert was a jazz musician in addition to being an excellent actor. He played Henry Jefferson on "All in the Family." Mr. Stewert appeared in "Turn On" the shortest running TV series of the 1960s. The show was pulled after one episode because of humor that was ahead of its time. In one scene, a buxom young woman is about to be executed by a firing squad. The captain of the guard says to the woman, "This may be unusual, but the firing squad has a last request!" Mr. Stewart made his film debut in the gritty crime drama "Odds Against Tomorrow" with Henry Belafonte and Ed Begley Sr.. The movie was ahead of its time in that a black man was portrayed as the leader of a gang of white criminals. I enjoyed Mr. Stewart’s work. Mr. Stewart died of Alzheimer’s disease.

LAWRENCE TIERNEY Died Feb. 26, 2002

Mr. Tierney played Joe Cabot in Tarantino’s debut film "Reservoir Dogs." The Hollywood tough guy lived his life off screen much like he did on. He was a strange bird according to most that knew and worked with him. Mr. Tierney became a major star in 1945 when he played the title role in "Dillinger." He played a small role in a 1991 TV version of "Dillinger." Other credits include "Back to Bataan," "Born to Kill," "Kill or be Killed," "Such Good Friends," "Andy Warhol’s Bad," "Gloria," "Prizzi’s Honor," and Jimmy Cagney’s final film "Terrible Joe Moran." "OK ramblers! Lets get rambling."

SPIKE MILLIGAN Died Feb. 27, 2002

British comedian Spike Milligan was an irreverent funnyman. He starred in "The Goon Show" with Peter Sellers and Henry Seacombe. I enjoyed Mr. Milligan’s performance in Richard Lester’s "The Three Musketeers." Milligan played M. Bonancieux, the husband of Raquel Welch. The scene in which he anticipates her return from the palace is a hoot. Mr. Milligan appeared in over 60 films. Mr. Milligan once called Prince Charles a "little groveling bastard" on live TV. My favorite quote from Mr. Milligan was the politically incorrect statement that… "World peace could be a possibility...if it weren't for all those damned foreigners!"

DON HAIG Died Mar. 2, 2002

Producer Don Haig was one of the most prominent members of the Canadian film industry. Mr. Haig produced nearly 150 films and television shows. While Mr. Haig did produce some feature films, the majority of the films he produced were documentaries. Mr. Haig also worked as an editor on 3 films and he narrated another. Mr. Haig was once the president of the National Film Board of Canada. In 1985 he was awarded a "Genie" (the Canadian Academy Award) for his "Outstanding Contribution to the Canadian Film Industry."

DAN SONNEY Died Mar. 3, 2002

Mr. Sonney was a sexploitation filmmaker for nearly 40 years. His imaginative titles include "My Tale is Hot" (1964), "Trader Hornee" (1970), "A Virgin in Hollywood" (1948), "Knockers Up" (1963) and "The Notorious Daughter of Fanny Hill" (1968). The 86 year old writer/producer/director died of Heart failure at age 86. Mr. Sonney often produced films under the name Semore Tokus!

SHIRLEY RUSSELL Died Mar. 4, 2002

Ms. Russell was a twice Oscar nominated costume designer for "Reds" and "Agatha." She was also nominated 8 times for the British Oscar, winning twice. Ms. Russell was the ex-wife of gonzo director Ken Russell. They had five children, two of which (Xavier and Victoria) are in the movie business. Ms. Russell’s long list of credits includes "Women in Love," "The Boys in the Band," "The Devils," "Tommy," "Listzomania," "Cuba," "Yanks," "Greystoke: The Legend of Tarzan, Lord of the Apes" and "Hope and Glory."

WILLIAM NAGLE Died Mar. 5, 2002

In the late 70s, Australian cinema moved to the forefront of world cinema due to the works of Peter Weir, George Miller, Bruce Beresford and the other George Miller. During that time I looked for every Australian film I could find to watch. I discovered a quirky little war movie called "The Odd, Angry Shot." It caught my eye because of the presence of Bryan Brown, one of the lead actors in my all-time favorite Australian movie "Breaker Morant." "The Odd, Angry Shot" was a low-key, character driven study of Australian soldiers serving in Vietnam. I only saw it once but it made an impression on me. The movie was based on a book by former Special Forces soldier William Nagle. Mr. Nagle wrote two other films that I am aware of. "The Death of a Soldier" is based on a true story of an American soldier who is trial for a series of sex murders in Australia. James Coburn delivers a knockout performance as the military attorney assigned to represent the accused. My favorite film of Mr. Nagle's was a little film called "The Siege of Firebase Gloria." The film stars Wings Hauser (Vice Squad) and R. Lee Ermey (Full Metal Jacket). It is an action packed study of men at war. The ending includes some of the most realistic and saddening battle footage you will see in a film of this caliber. It is saddening because of the attention to detail show by Mr. Nagle in the creation of these characters. You care when these characters die in combat. Mr. Nagle wrote from the heart and from experience.

IRENE WORTH Died Mar. 10, 2002

Ms. Worth was known primarily as a classically trained stage actress. She won three Tony awards during her nearly six decade career. She appeared in over 20 feature films from 1948 through 1999. She won the British Best Actress Award for the 1958 film "Orders to Kill." Other screen credits include Neil Simon's "Lost in Yonkers" Onegin and "Nicholas and Alexandra." Although she was born in Nebraska, she was awarded an Honorary CBE in 1975.

WILLIAM WITNEY Died Mar. 17, 2002

B-movie action-film director with well over 100 screen credits. Mr. Witney is generally regarded as the director who introduced choreographed fight sequences to the movies. He directed numerous cliffhanger serials in the 1930s and 40s, along with many Roy Rodgers movies. He later turned to directing TV westerns including "The Wild, Wild West." His movie credits include one of my all-time favorite B-movies, the lurid "Bonnie Parker Story" with Dorothy Provine. Mr. Witney's admirers included Steven Speilberg and Quentin Tarantino.

JOSEF VON STROHEIM Died Mar. 22, 2002

Josef von Stroheim was one of the top sound editors and sound effects specialists in the business. He won 2 Emmy Awards and 5 Golden Reel awards given by his fellow sound editors. He was also nominated for a British Academy Award for best soundtrack for his work on the 1976 version of "A Star is Born." Mr. von Stroheim was the son of Erich von Stroheim, the director of the silent-film masterpiece "Greed." The elder von Stroheim also played Max, Gloria Swanson's enabling manservant in Billy Wilder's classic "Sunset Blvd." Josef von Stroheim worked on some of the best films of the 70s. His credits include Sam Peckinpah's The Getaway, Martin Scorsese's "Alice Doesn't Live Here Anymore," Sidney Pollack's "Jeremiah Johnson" and "Three Days of the Condor," and Mike Nichols' "Carnal Knowledge." He also worked extensively in TV. Mr. von Stroheim was a combat photographer in WWII. He worked on several B-horror movies in the 50s including "The Amazing Colossal Beast" and "The Ghost of Dragstrip Hollow."

RICHARD SYLBERT Died Mar. 23, 2002

Last night I was watching the DVD Frances. The featurette included a lengthy interview with Richard Sylbert, the film's production designer. Mr. Sylbert's architectural eye captured the long gone glory of Hollywood in the 30s. His comments revealed him to be a passionate artist. Needless to say, I was shocked today to read that he died. He was in my living room last night. That is the wonder of the medium, Mr. Sylbert's work is immortalized in film. Mr. Sylbert was nominated for 6 Oscars. He won 2 ("Dick Tracy" and "Who's Afraid of Virginia Woolf.") My Sylbert has provided the look to some of the most influential movies of the last 50 years.

Mr. Sylbert began as an art director in the 1950s. His imprint can be seen in several of the best films from that time. He worked on Elia Kazan's "Baby Doll" (1956) and the powerful portrait of power gone mad "A Face in the Crowd" (1957). My Sylbert turned to production design in the early 60s. Film credits include the gritty crime drama "Murder Inc." (1960), John Frankenheimer's classic The Manchurian Candidate (1962), the dark Rod Steiger vehicle The Pawnbroker (1964), Roman Polanski's horror classic "Rosemary's Baby" (1968). Mr. Sylbert worked with Polanski again on the masterpiece "Chinatown" (1974). During the 60s, Mr. Sylbert produced his only film "What's New Pussycat?"

Mr. Sylbert worked many times with Mike Nichols. In addition to the Oscar winning "Who's Afraid of Virginia Woolf" My Sylbert collaborated with Mr. Nichols on "The Graduate" (1967), "Catch 22" (1970), "Carnal Knowledge" (1971) and "The Fortune".

During the 1970s Mr. Sylbert helped create the illusion of wealth, the color of war and the grit of the street. In John Huston's "Fat City" with Stacy Keach and Jeff Bridges, Mr. Sylbert captured the seamy underside of boxing. He captured the decadence of 1968 Los Angeles in Hal Ashby's satirical "Shampoo" (1975).

During the 80s, Mr. Sylbert designed some of the more stylish films of the decade. His credits include "Reds"(1981), "Francis" (1982), "Breathless" (1983),"The Cotton Club" (1984), "Tequila Sunrise" and "Shoot to Kill" (both 1988). He continued his influential work through the 90s with "Dick Tracy" (1990), "Carlito's Way" (1993), "Mulholland Fall's" in which he also acted (1996) and "My Best Friend's Wedding" (1997). His final film was "Who Shot Victor Fox?" (2002).

LOUIS M. HEYWOOD Died Mar. 26, 2002

81 year-old writer produced Louis Heywood has died of pneumonia. Mr. Heywood began his career in radio and TV. He worked for American International Pictures, Hanna Barbera and as a consultant for DIC children's entertainment. His son Andy is the creator of "Inspector Gadget." Though Mr. Heywood is well known for many prestigious shows such as the Emmy-award-winning TV movie, "The Gathering" and as the first writer for TV's first interactive show, "Winky Dink and You," I will always be indebted to him for the numerous excellent horror films he produced.

Curtis Harrington's "Who Slew Auntie Roo?" was just one of many great films Mr. Heywood produced for AIP. Other credits include "The Witchfinder General" with Vincent Price. Mr. Heywood also wrote additional dialogue for that film. You will be hard pressed to find a better horror film from the late 60s than this highly regarded film. Mr. Heywood's version of "Murders in the Rue Morgue" with Jason Robards is also considered to be one of the finest horror films of that era. Other credits include "The Crimson Cult" with Christopher Lee and Boris Karloff in one of his last roles. He produced "Scream and Scream Again" which was the only film in which Vincent Price, Christopher Lee and Peter Cushing all appeared together. Mr. Heywood also produced "The Oblong Box" with Christopher Lee and Vincent Price and "Cry of the Banshee." Mr. Heywood also produced the two "Dr. Phibes" films with Vincent Price: "The Abominable Dr. Phibes" and "Dr. Phibes Rises Again." Fans of horror films from the late 60s and early 70s will recognize all of these titles. Others may want to check them out. Thanks to Mr. Heywood for the hours of pleasure he brought film fans over the years. Prayers for his family.

DUDLEY MOORE Died Mar. 27, 2002

People who bring laughter into the world should be held in the highest esteem by the rest of us. Actor, writer, comedian, composer, producer and all around funny little guy, Dudley Moore passed on today after a long battle with a rare brain disorder. I first noticed Dudley more in the hilarious movie "Bedazzled" (1967) in which he and comedic partner Peter Cook took an irreverent look at love, God and the devil. Forget the remake, the original is far superior. Mr. Moore became in international superstar and unlikely romantic leading man in Blake Edwards' fantasy sex comedy "10" with Bo Derek. Mr. Moore continued his streak playing the lovable drunk in "Arthur." He was the executive producer of the sequel. Mr. Moore was also an extremely accomplished musician. He composed the score for six films. Another favorite performance of mine was as the kinky composer in the Goldie Hawn, Chevy Chase comedy "Foul Play." Mr. Moore stole the show. Mr. Moore appeared in over 40 films.

MILTON BERLE Died Mar. 27, 2002

93-year-old showbiz icon Milton Berle died of colon cancer. Mr. Berle began as a child actor in silent movies. He appeared in "The Perils of Pauline" in 1914. Best known as a comedian, Mr. Berle became known as Mr. Tuesday Night in the early 1950s as America tuned into his weekly TV show, "The Texaco Star Theater." He is probably more responsible for the sale of TVs in the early 50s than any other person. "Uncle Miltie" as he was known brought outrageous comedy right into the homes of millions of Americans. Berle dressed in drag and did whatever he could to get a laugh. As a result, moviegoers stayed away from theaters in droves. In this way, Mr. Berle was single-handedly responsible for many technological advances in the movie industry. VistaVision, Cinerama and numerous other new Widescreen (along with 3D) formats were invented to woo people back into the theaters. One of the most popular stories about Mr. Berle is that he had the largest penis in Hollywood. Supposedly someone approached Mr. Berle and Forest Tucker in a bathroom and bet Berle that his was bigger. The story goes, that Mr. Tucker said "Berle, just take out enough to beat him!" Berle's numerous film credits include "It's a Mad, Mad, Mad, Mad, Mad World" "Broadway Danny Rose" "The Muppet Movie" "Evil Roy Slade" (a hilarious made for TV western spoof) and the gangster movie "Lepke." Mr. Berle's showbiz career spanned the presidential administrations of William Howard Taft through George W. Bush!

BILLY WILDER Died Mar. 27, 2002

When it rains it pours folks. March 27, 2002 looks to be a dark day for the film industry. First Dudley Moore, then Milton Berle and now Billy Wilder. In my humble opinion, Billy Wilder was, behind Akira Kurosawa, the greatest movie director of all time. The Austrian born writer/director was responsible for many of the greatest films ever made. Most directors would be proud to have directed one film as good as those written and directed by Mr. Wilder. The 95-year-old genius helmed such classics as "Sunset Blvd." "The Lost Weekend" "Stalag 17" "Double Indemnity" "The Apartment" "Witness for the Prosecution" "Some Like It Hot" and "The Seven year Itch." Mr. Wilder's non-classics were still better than most others' best films. Some of those films include "Sabrina" "The Spirit of St. Louis" "Irma La Douce" "The Fortune Cookie" "The Private Life of Sherlock Holmes" and "One, Two, Three."

Mr. Wilder began his career as a screenwriter. He wrote 35 scripts that were produced before he began directing films in 1942 including "Ninotchka." He always worked with a writing partner because he was self-conscious about his mastery of the English language. His two main partners were Charles Brackett and I.A.L. Diamond. Mr. Wilder not only wrote all of his own films, he continued to write scripts for others. Mr. Wilder performed a bit of uncredited script surgery on the Rat Pack's classic heist film "Ocean's 11" and the James Bond spoof "Casino Royale."

Wilder excelled as a director because not only did he have a brilliant eye for camera placement and movement, he knew how to bring characters to life. His scripts provided some of the most memorable characters in film history. Acting in a Billy Wilder film would usually lead to an Oscar nomination or win for the actors in his films. William Holden (twice), Walter Mathau, Ray Milland, Barbara Stanwyck, Robert Strauss, Gloria Swanson, Erich Von Stroheim, Nancy Olsen, Audrey Hepburn, Charles Laughton, Elsa Lanchester, Jack Lemmon (twice), Jack Kruschen and Shirley MacLaine (twice) were all nominated for acting in Billy Wilder films. Mr. Wilder himself was nominated for 21 Oscars. He won six and also was given the Irving Thalberg Lifetime Achievement Award in 1988. Of the 25 films Mr. Wilder directed after fleeing Hitler's Germany, 17 were nominated for one type of Oscar or another. More than two-thirds of his work was recognized for excellence!

Mr. Wilder was able to work in many genres. "Stalag 17" is probably the best POW movie ever made. "Double Indemnity" is usually considered to be the best Film Noir ever made. Billy Wilder's "Some Like It Hot" was voted the best comedy of all time by the American Film Institute. Whether dealing with the twisted mind of an aging movie star ("Sunset Blvd.") or a budding young woman being pursued by wolves in black ties ("Sabrina"), Billy Wilder hit the mark. I hope there will someday be another like him.

JACK KRUSCHEN Died Apr. 2, 2002

You may not know his name, but chances are you've seen Jack Kruschen in many films. The Canadian actor was one of the most in-demand character actors for nearly 50 years. I first noticed Mr. Kruschen back in high school when he was the object of James Caan and Alan Arkin's bumbling wrath in the politically incorrect comedy "Freebie and the Bean." Kruschen played a mob boss that the two San Francisco cops wanted to put away. Kruschen is great in the film. His sense of irony and frustration was best illustrated in a scene in which he is getting a haircut. Outside the window of the shop, Caan and Arkin are beating the hell out of an innocent person they believe is a hit man sent to kill Kruschen. As the cops realize they're mistake, they are embarrassed. Kruschen turns to the barber and says "Its OK, they're with me." The scene plays funnier than it reads. Mr. Kruschen was nominated for a Best Supporting Actor Oscar for his role in Billy Wilder's "The Apartment." Other film credits include "Satan's Cheerleaders," Disney's "$1,000,000 Duck," "Harlow," "The Unsinkable Molly Brown," the original (and superior) "Cape Fear," and "War of the Worlds." In "War of the Worlds" he was the Mexican farmer who was part of the trio that became the first victims of the Martians. Mr. Kruschen appeared in nearly 100 movies and just as many TV episodes.

NOBU McCARTHY Died Apr. 6, 2002

Nobu Atsumi was a successful model in Japan and won the Miss Tokyo pageant. She moved to America with her then husband David McCarthy and started acting in the 1950s. She was in Jerry Lewis's "The Geisha Boy." Other credits include "Five Gates to Hell" "Walk Like a Dragon" "Love With the Proper Stranger" "The Karate Kid II" and "Pacific Heights." She appeared in the landmark TV movie "Farewell to Manzanar" which dealt with the interment of Japanese Americans in California during WWII. She was nominated for an Independent Spirit Award as best lead performance for 1988's "The Wash." Ms. McCarthy was the artistic director of The East-West Players, a theatrical company of Asian and American actors. She died when an aortic aneurysm burst while on location in Brazil filming a movie about Japanese immigrants to that country.

JOHN AGAR Died Apr. 7, 2002

I first noticed John Agar 36 years ago. It was a Saturday around 6 PM. I was watching "Tarantula" on WHBQ’s "Fantastic Features" in Memphis. I thought I was the smartest 1st grader around after seeing that movie because I learned the word 'Acromegaly.' The star of the film, Leo G. Carroll came down with the deforming disease while experimenting with growth hormones. I went to school and used the word as much as I could. "Your mama's so ugly she has Acromegaly." What should have gotten my skinny white but kicked only drew blank stares from the other 1st graders on the playground. I guess I was strange back then. I hadn't thought of that memory until I read today that John Agar had died.

John Agar was the "King of the B-Movies" back in the 1950s. There were many that argued that Richard Carlson or Richard Denning wore that crown, but those people were mistaken. John Agar ruled supreme. John Agar appeared regularly in three genres: Westerns, War movies and Sci-Fi films. Mr. Agar was groomed to be an A-list actor. His marriage to Shirley Temple brought him under contract in Hollywood. He started his acting career in three of the best John Wayne films ever made. Director John Ford cast Agar and Shirley Temple along side John Wayne and Henry Fonda in "Fort Apache." "Fort Apache" was the first film in John Ford's 'Cavalry Trilogy.' Agar would also appear in the second film in that trilogy, "She Wore a Yellow Ribbon." His third film was with the Duke in "The Sands of Iwo Jima."

By the late 1940s, Mr. Agar was tired of hearing himself called 'Mr. Shirley Temple' a thousand times a day in the press. He developed troubles with alcohol. He and Ms. Temple had a bitter divorce. The 1950s saw Mr. Agar appearing in more westerns and war films, only they were b-movies. The 50s also saw the growth of the Sci-Fi genre. Mr. Agar appeared in several famous Sci-Fi films. "The Revenge of the Creature" was the first sequel to "The Creature From the Black Lagoon." He starred in the aforementioned "Tarantula" and others including the cheesy "The Brain From the Planet Arous" and "The Mole People."

In the 60s, Mr. Agar embraced the Westerns again and appeared almost exclusively in that genre. He did appear in Roger Corman's gangster classic "The Saint Valentines Day Massacre" though. John Wayne brought Agar on board for "Chisum" and "Big Jake" in the early 70s.

People, who were once fans as children, were beginning to work in the movie industry in the 80s and 90s. Mr. Agar was given cameo roles in horror and Sci-Fi films out of respect for his place in the history of those genres. He was in Clive Barker's "Nightbreed" among others. He appeared in the video series "A 100 Years of Horror" as himself. His last role was in the video release "Attack of the B-Movie Monster."

In 1981, the Academy of Science Fiction, Fantasy and Horror Films gave Mr. Agar a Life Career Award.

RUSTY BURRELL Died Apr. 15, 2002

When the state of California tried Charles Manson for the Tate-Labianca murders, Rusty Burrell was the bailiff charged with securing Charlie. When the state of California convicted Caryll Chessman and unjustly sentenced him to death for a series of rapes in the late 50s, Rusty Burrell was the bailiff too. The good-natured lawman also provided bailiff services for Judge Wapner on TVs "The People's Court" and "Judge Wapner's Animal Court." Burrell was a lawman first and foremost, but he did moonlight in the entertainment industry. He was the original bailiff on the 1950s TV show "Divorce Court." He appeared in the movies "Fate is the Hunter" and "Take Her, She's Mine." Court is adjourned.

ROBERT URICH Died April 16, 2002

Sometimes the death of a particular celebrity seems sadder than other times. It's not that they had any more value as a human than others or that their passing is any more painful for their family than for others who suffer a loss. News of Robert Urich's death today of cancer put a damper on the morning drive to work. I have been a fan of his since I saw the second Dirty Harry film, "Magnum Force" back in 1973. Mr. Urich may not have been a Robert DeNiro as far as his acting range was concerned, but he had a special something, which brought his characters to life. He also seemed to be a genuinely nice guy.

Mr. Urich had been battling a rare form of cancer, which attacked his joints. It seemed for quite some time that he had the battle won. He was married to actress Heather Menzies (the second oldest daughter in "The Sound of Music"). The couple established the "Heather and Robert Urich Fund for Sarcoma Research" at the University of Michigan. IT is a worthwhile foundation that helps in the battle to cure cancer.

Mr. Urich was a bigger star on TV than on the big screen. He starred or appeared as a regular in more TV series than any other actor in history. Among his 17 TV series are "Soap," "Vega$," "Spencer For Hire," "S.W.A.T." and "Bob & Carol & Ted & Alice." Mr. Urich won an Emmy for narrating a WWII documentary about submarines. His best role came in the great mini series "Lonesome Dove." A college football star, Mr. Urich's athletic abilities made him a natural to play pro-football player and Vietnam Vet Rocky Bleier in 1980's "Fighting Back." Mr. Urich was nominated twice for Golden Globes for his portrayal of Dan Tanna in the series "Vega$." Mr. Urich played the Tony Curtis role in the TV remake of "The Defiant Ones."

Mr. Urich appeared in a couple of my favorite films. The aforementioned "Magnum Force" is one. Another is the psuedo-sci-fi, paranoia B-movie classic "Endangered Species." "Endangered Species" provided an explanation for the mysterious cattle mutilations that plagued the Southwest US during the 70s. Urich played a burned out NY cop sent west to rehab and dry-out. Sparks fly between his character and the local sheriff played by JoBeth Williams. When Ms. Williams character asks Urich if he has ever been shot he replies "Honey, I've been shot more times than you've been laid...probably." It is one of the classic lines in B-movie history. Other film credits include "Ice Pirates" and "Turk 182" for which he received a "Razzie" nomination as worst supporting actor. What do those jerk-offs know!

Prayers for his wife, children and friends would be appreciated and helpful. If anyone who might want to donate to the "Heather and Robert Urich Fund for Sarcoma Research" you may send a memorial to the following address:

University of Michigan Comprehensive Center's Robert Urich Fund

1500 E. Medical Center Drive

Ann Arbor, MI 48109-0755.

THOR HEYERDAHL Died Apr. 18, 2002

Norwegian explorer who set out to prove that primitive people could have sailed across the Atlantic and Pacific oceans long before European explorers. His 1947 trip from Peru to Tahiti was the subject of the classic adventure book "Kon Tiki." The film version of "Kon Tiki" won the best documentary Oscar in 1951. During the 50s, Mr. Heyerdahl wrote the documentary "Galapagos" and produced the documentary "Aku Aku." In 1970 Heyerdahl set out to cross the Atlantic in his boat made of reeds. After his first ship sank, he tried again with success. That trip was the subject of the documentary film "The Ra Expeditions"(1971). Mr. Heyerdahl was nominated for an Oscar in the Best Documentary category for that film. He tried his hand at acting when he played a pirate in the Danish film "Pippi Longstocking in the South Sea" (1970). He's now off on his greatest adventure.

REGINALD ROSE Died Apr. 19, 2002

Emmy award winning writer producer Reginald Rose died at age 81. Mr. Rose was nominated for his screenplay and for Best Picture with his co-producer Henry Fonda for the film classic "12 Angry Men." He won the Writer's Guild Award for his screenplay for "12 Angry Men." Mr. Rose won Emmy Awards for the "Studio One" production of "12 Angry Men" and for the legal TV series "The Defenders." Other screenplays include "The Wild Geese II" "Somebody Killed Her Husband" and the horrible "The Final Option." Mr. Rose also wrote the powerful "Who's Life Is It Anyway?" which starred Richard Dreyfuss. Mr. Rose began writing in early TV. He wrote several plays for the classic live series "Studio One" and "The Twilight Zone."

LINDA "LOVELACE" BOREMAN Died Apr. 22, 2002

Linda Boreman who became the first superstar of the adult film industry under the name Linda Lovelace died of injuries sustained in a car crash on April 3rd. She starred in the 1972 film "Deep Throat" about a woman who's clitoris was located in the back of her throat. The term "pornochic" was coined to describe the effect "Deep Throat" had on middle-class Americans. No longer were adult theaters only frequented by men in raincoats; celebrities and couples were seen waiting on-line at movie theaters to catch the new phenomena. The success "Deep Throat" kicked off the era of adult filmmaking chronicled in "Boogie Nights." The movie also caught the eye of the Justice Department and became the target of a highly publicized prosecution in Memphis, TN. Eventually the filmmakers were exonerated. Linda Boreman's adult career began by making hard-core loops for peep shows. Her only feature before "Deep Throat" was "Dog F**ker" starring Ms. Boreman and a German Shepherd. Pretty disgusting. That fact lends some credence to the story that Ms. Boreman told in her 1980 autobiography "Ordeal." Ms. Boreman claimed that her ex-husband Chuck Traynor had forced her into the adult film industry with threats of violence and by drugging her. These allegations were denied by Mr. Traynor. Ms Boreman spent the rest of her life crusading against pornography. Her one non-porn film, made 2 years after her divorce from Traynor was "Linda Lovelace for President." The soft-core sex farce co-starred former "Monkees" drummer Mickey Dolenz and the legendary Scatman Crothers.

CARLA FRY Died Apr. 23, 2002

41-year-old producer Carla Fry jammed a lot of work into her short life. She was the executive in charge of production on some of the most popular films of recent years. Her film credits include "Boogie Nights," "Magnolia," "Life as a House," "State and Main," "Blade," "American History X" and "se7en" among others.

LISA "LEFT EYE" LOPES Died Apr. 25, 2002

Lisa Lopes, part of the hip-hop trio TLC was killed in a car crash in Honduras. Ms. Lopes occasionally traveled to a 'healing village' in Honduras to meditate. Ms. Lopes appeared as the hostess of MTV's series "The Cut." Her one big-screen credit was in the 1994 film "House Party 3" in which she portrayed a character called "Sex as a Weapon." Ms. Lopes also portrayed herself in episodes of the TV series "Living Single" and "Top Ten." She had also appeared on "Who Wants to Be a Millionaire" last year. She is known to sports fans as the woman who burned NFL star Andre Rison's mansion to the ground. Andre Rison and Ms. Lopes were married in 2000.

JUDY TOLL Died May 2, 2002

44-year-old actress/writer/comedian died of cancer (melanoma). Ms. Toll wrote the play "Casual Sex" which was turned into a feature film. She appeared in "Skin Deep," "The Brave Little Toaster" (voice only), "Inside Out" and the HBO parody of Andrew Dice Clay: "Judy Toll: The Dice Woman--Lips Only." She wrote for HBO's "Sex and the City," "Boy Meets World," "The Genna Davis Show" and last years' TV pilot "Me and My Needs."

GEORGE SIDNEY Died May 5, 2002

Mr. Sidney directed over 50 films during the studio system days of Hollywood. He helmed many of MGM’s most lavish productions during the 40s and 50s. His credits include "The Three Musketeers" (1948), "Anchors Aweigh, " "Pal Joey" Jeanne Engles," "The Harvey Girls" "Kiss Me Kate," "Showboat" and "Viva Las Vegas" with Elvis. Mr. Sidney was the president of the Director's Guild for 16 years. The 85-year-old director died of lymphoma.

OTIS BLACKWELL Died May 6, 2002

One of the greatest rock and roll songwriters in history, Otis Blackwell, died of a heart attack at age 70. He provided hit songs for Elvis, Jerry Lee Lewis, The Who, Billy Joel and James Taylor among others. His songs "Breathless" and "Great Balls of Fire" are also the titles of movies highlighting his work. And don't forget all of the early Elvis films, which featured such Blackwell songs as "Don't Be Cruel" and "Return to Sender." Mr. Blackwell also wrote the song, which became Peggy Lee's (see Jan. 21, 2002) theme song: "Fever." According to IMDB, Mr. Blackwell only has 2 movie credits for providing music in "Nurse Betty" (2000) and "Jamboree" (1957). I have to believe that IMDB has left out numerous films featuring Mr. Blackwell's work. Long live rock.

JOSEPH BONNANO Died May 11, 2002

Joseph Bonnano was one of the heads of the five Mafia families of New York. The 97-year-old Bonnano died in his sleep of old age. That was an accomplishment when you consider that he started his long career in crime working for Al Capone. Mr. Bonnano was known to be a diplomatic crime boss. He tried to talk before resorting to other methods. Mario Puzo based his character Don Vito "The Godfather" Corleone in large part on Joseph Bonnano. It was reported that Mr. Bonnano was very pleased with Marlon Brando's performance as Don Vito. He would have been one critic an actor wouldn't want to piss off! Gay Talese's true crime book "Honor Thy Father" about the Bonnano family was turned into a 1973 TV movie. Raf Vallone played Mr. Bonnano. John Chappoulis played Joe Bonnano is the forgettable 1991 feature film "Mobsters." He was also the subject of an episode of "A&E's Biography."

BILL PEET Died May 11, 2002

We've lost yet another master writer/animator this year. Mr. Peet was one of the "Nine Old Men" who made up the core animators who started Disney Studios. Mr. Peet wrote/animated and created many of Disney's most memorable characters and films. His credits include the original "Fantasia," "Dumbo," The Three Caballeros," "Song of the South," "Cinderella," "Alice in Wonderland," "Peter Pan," "Sleeping Beauty," "One Hundred and One Dalmatians" and "The Sword in the Stone." Mr. Peet broke of from Disney in 1964. He then turned to writing children's books. Mr. Peet was 87.

RAY STRICKLYN Died May 14, 2002

Mr. Stricklyn was a stage actor who turned to film acting and then became a powerful Hollywood agent. Mr. Stricklyn continued to act on stage and screen even while he was a publicist for such people as Elizabeth Taylor and Bette Davis. His film credits include "Somebody Up There Likes Me," "The Big Fisherman," "The Return of Dracula," "Ten North Frederick" and Irwin Allen's 1960 version of "The Lost World." Mr. Stricklyn's TV credits include "Wagon Trail" "Seinfeld" and many others in between!

WALTER LORD Died May 19, 2002

Walter Lord wrote the definitive book on the sinking of the Titanic. "A Night to Remember" is a riveting account of the tragedy and heroism of that fateful April night. His book was first dramatized on TV in 1947 on the "Kraft Television Theater." All the spectacle of James Cameron's film aside, the 1958 film "A Night to Remember" is still the best dramatization of the tragedy. Mr. Lord appeared as himself in two 1994 documentaries about the sinking. Walter Lord died of Parkinson’s Disease at age 84.

STEPHEN JAY GOULD Died May 20, 2002

Mr. Gould was a world-renowned scientist and Harvard professor. He portrayed himself in the 1994 mini series "Baseball." He also portrayed himself (in cartoon form) in an episode of "The Simpsons." The 60-year-old Gould died of cancer.

SAM SNEAD Died May 23, 2002

"Slammin" Sammy Snead won more golf tournaments than any man who ever lived. As a kid, I always got a kick out of my late dad imitating some forgotten sports caster saying the words "Slammin Sammy Snead." There was something about the way he accented the first word. That was the first thing I thought of when I read about Mr. Snead's passing at age 89. Mr. Snead appeared as himself in 3 movies. "Follow the Sun" was the Glenn Ford movie, which told the life story of golfer Ben Hogan. Mr. Snead also appeared in the Jerry Lewis comedy "The Caddy." He also appeared in the 1994 Snoop Dogg/Dr. Dre comedy "Murder Was the Case."

FREEMAN KING Died June 1, 2002

Actor comedian Freeman King died of a heart attack on his 59th birthday. Mr. King had numerous TV credits. He was a regular on "The Sonny and Cher Show" in the 70s. His movie credits include Chevy Chase's "Fletch," "Under the Rainbow" and "The Buddy Holly Story." Mr. King played the MC at the Apollo theater in the best scene in "The Buddy Holly Story." His famous line in that film was "I'm as clean as a Safeway chitlin!" Other TV credits include "Sanford and Son," "What's Happening!" and "Starsky and Hutch."

HERMAN COHEN Died June 2, 2002

One of the all-time greats of truly bad movies has passed on. Schlock horror movie producer Herman Cohen died of throat cancer. I can't tell you how many hours of guilty enjoyment I received from Mr. Cohen's work. His notorious film titles and low budgets made him a ton of money back in the 50s and 60s. Mr. Cohen struck paydirt with a little film called "I Was a Teenage Werewolf" with a then little known actor named Michael Landon. That film's success spawned numerous other teenage horror films. His follow-up was "I Was a Teenage Frankenstein." Other titles include "Blood of Dracula," "How to Make a Monster" and "The Headless Ghost." Mr. Cohen began making horror films in England in the early 1960s. His "Horrors of the Black Museum" is a b-movie classic. You will never put a pair of binoculars up to your eyes without thinking twice after seeing that film. He produced two horror films with Joan Crawford: "Berserk!" and "Trog." While "Trog" was a cheesy throwaway, "Berserk!" has a fee real shocks in it. Mr. Cohen also produced the British "King Kong" rip-off "Konga" starring the excellent horror actor, Michael Gough. Mr. Cohen wrote seven of his films and made uncredited cameos in seven more.

LEW WASSERMAN Died June 3, 2002

Mr. Wasserman was the last of a dying breed. He was an old-style Hollywood mogul cut from the same cloth as Jack Warner, Louie B. Meyer or Harry Cohen. Wasserman was Ronald Reagan's first agent. He also represented Jimmy Stewart and Janet Leigh among others. He was a strong supporter of former President Bill Clinton. Mr. Wasserman owned MCA and Universal at one time. He brought a little known filmmaker named Stephen Speilberg to the forefront of the industry. His unauthorized biography "The Last Mogul" by Denis McDougal is a great read.

DEE DEE RAMONE (DOUGLAS COLVIN) Died June 5, 2002

Dee Dee Ramone was one of the founding members of the greatest punk band ever, "The Ramones." Dee Dee died of a suspected drug overdose. His wife found a syringe in the kitchen. The Ramones' influence on the British and American Punk Rock movement was immeasurable. Dee Dee wrote some of the band's greatest song including my favorite "Teenage Lobotomy." The band starred as themselves in the 1979 cult film "Rock and Roll High School" with the sexy pixie P.J. Sparks.Do these guys really think it is fashionable to kill themselves with drugs?

SIGNE HASSO Died June 7, 2002

Ms. Hasso was an actress in Sweden prior to coming to the United States. She began making movies in Hollywood in the 40s. Her credits include "Heaven Can Wait" (1943), "A Double Life," "Picture Mommy Dead" and "A Reflection of Fear." She also appeared in an over-looked comedy take-off on "The Maltese Falcon" called "The Black Bird." Her character in that film was Dr. Cripen, named after a famous serial killer. The 91-year-old actress was comforted by fellow Swedish actor Peter Stormare ("Windtalkers") at her hospital bed when she died.

JAMES LUISI Died June 7, 2002

Mr. Luisi was a long time character actor. He had a regular role as Lieutenant Chapman on the TV series "The Rockford Files." He played Al Palmini in one of my all time favorite TV movies: "Contract on Cherry Street" with Frank Sinatra. Other credits include the pilot for Joseph Wambaugh's anthology TV series "Police Story," "Cry Rape," "Fade to Black," "Star 80" and the sci-fi gore classic "The Hidden." Mr. Luisi died of cancer.

JOHN GOTTI Died June 10, 2002

Hollywood has been in love with gangsters since the first hoodlum graced the silver screen back in 1912. Some were feared, some were pitied, but audiences have always been drawn to the Bad Guy. Many notorious criminals have sparked the imagination of Hollywood filmmakers. Joseph Bonnano, who passed away this year, was the inspiration for Don Vito Corleone. John Gotti passed away at a Federal Prison hospital in Springfield, Missouri. It is somewhat appropriate that Mr. Gotti would die in the state that was once known as "The Mother of Bandits" because of native sons like Jessie James and Cole Younger. Mr. Gotti was transferred to the hospital from the Federal Maximum Security Prison in Marion, Indiana where he was serving a life sentence. Mr. Gotti did not inspire anyone to create a benevolent, but deadly crime lord such as Don Vito. Mr. Gotti inspired respect, in the way the word is interpreted by the Cosa Nosta. Respect = fear. Mr. Gotti was one of the most feared and powerful Mafia Dons of the last half-century. He killed his way to the top, and ruled with an iron fist. The "Teflon Don" turned out to be vulnerable, and fell before the Justice Department. Mr. Gotti has been the subject of many films. He was portrayed by Armand Assante in "Gotti," Tom Sizemore in "Witness to the Mob," Anthony John Denison in "Getting Gotti," Sonny Marinelli in "Boss of Bosses" and Steven Randazzo in "The Big Heist." I hope he made peace with his maker.

JOHN ENTWISTLE Died June 27, 2002

The Beatles, The Rolling Stones and The Who were the ruling Triumvirate of rock bands to revolutionize popular music in the 1960s. John Entwistle provided a steady beat as the bassist for The Who. While Pete Townsend destroyed his guitars and the late Keith Moon hid dynamite in his drum kit, John Entwistle stood stoically still and kept the backbeat coming. One day before The Who was to kick off a US tour, John Entwistle died of heart failure brought on by a cocaine overdose. The Who appeared in a multitude of rocumentaries. They almost stole the show in the granddaddy of all rock movies: "Monterey Pop." They were overshadowed by the American debut of Jimi Hendrix. They also appeared in "Woodstock." "The Kids Are Alright" is dedicated totally to the career of The Who. The band produced and appeared in the film version of their rock opera "Tommy." Mr. Entwistle was also a co-producer of the mod classic "Quadrophenia." Entwistle rarely stepped to the forefront of the band. One exception was his creepy-crawly novelty song "Boris the Spider." Flashy or not, Mr. Entwistle was a rock solid foundation upon which The Who rocked the world. Mr. Entwistle was 57 years old.

ROSEMARY CLOONEY Died June 29, 2002

Rosemary Clooney lived life large. She had more than her share of triumphs and tragedies. Known for her deep, earthy singing voice, Ms. Clooney became one of the most popular singers during the big band era. She appeared in several films including "White Christmas." However her biggest success came in the recording industry. She is the mother of actor Miquel Ferrer and the aunt of George Clooney. Sondra Locke portrayed her in a TV movie of her life.

IVAN MOFFAT Died July 4, 2002

Writer/producer Ivan Moffat received an Oscar nomination for his screenplay for George Stevens' film "Giant." Mr. Moffat also wrote the screenplay for John Frankenheimer's "Black Sunday" and the Alec Guiness film "Hitler: The Last Ten Days." Mr. Moffat was an associate producer on two of George Stevens' best films: "Shane" and "A Place in the Sun." Mr. Moffat appeared as himself in three documentaries about director Stevens. Mr. Moffat died of a stroke at age 84.

KATY JURADO Died July 5, 2002

My favorite scene in Sam Peckinpah's flawed "Pat Garret and Billy the Kid" involves Katy Jurado sitting by her husband, Slim Pickens as he dies following a gun battle. Slim Pickens was building a boat for him and his wife to sail away in. Peckinpah set his death scene beside a small river. Ms. Jurado cries and smiles at her husband as he holds his gunshot belly. Bob Dylan's "Knocking on Heaven's Door" plays on the soundtrack. This is as close to sailing away as the couple will ever get. The scene is a shining example of the character development that set Peckinpah's films apart from countless imitators. Ms. Jurado is wonderful in this cameo. It is touching juxtaposition to the violent shootout, which preceded the scene. In the shootout, Ms. Jurado backed up her husband with a double-barrel shotgun. Ms. Jurado had what it took to pull off these extremes. She could be a strong pitbull and a feminine support.

Ms. Jurado won a Golden Globe for Best Supporting Actress in the classic Western "High Noon." She was nominated for the Best Supporting Oscar nomination "Broken Lance" in 1954. She was honored by the Mexican film industry four times between 1954 and 1999 with the Silver Ariel Award for her acting. Ms. Jurado was married to Ernest Borgnine at one time. Ms. Jurado appeared in 65 films including Marlon Brando's quirky Billy the Kid drama "One Eyed Jacks," and "Barabbas."

JOHN FRANKENHEIMER Died July 6, 2002

Mr. Frankenheimer directed some of the most original films of the 1960s. A dear friend of Robert Kennedy, Mr. Frankenheimer’s career faltered after his friend’s assassination. Director Frankenheimer sank into alcoholism, from which he recovered. While he never recaptured the glory of his early career, Mr. Frankenheimer continued to make some very interesting films.

He is best known as the director of the paranoid classic "The Manchurian Candidate." The film is as riveting today as it was when released in 1962. Mr. Frankenheimer started in TV. He directed countless episodes of the live TV show Playhouse 90. He turned to feature films in the late 1950s. In addition to "The Manchurian Candidate," he directed "The Birdman of Alcatraz" with Burt Lancaster and the psychological sci-fi classic "Seconds" with Rock Hudson.

Mr. Frankenheimer teamed up with Burt Lancaster on several films. They include the WWII psychological drama "The Train," the political thriller "Seven Days in May" and the under-rated "The Gypsy Moths" about a team of parachutists who put on shows in small southern towns.

One of my favorites was the Gregory Peck film "I Walk the Line." In that film, Mr. Frankenheimer visited Lolita territory. Peck plays a Southern sheriff who overlooks a moonshiner’s activities in exchange for the favors of the moonshiner’s daughter played by the sexy Tuesday Weld.

Mr. Frankenheimer directed the best of a group of films released in the early 1970s called "The American Film Theater." The movies were designed to bring stage plays to the screen for mass consumption. Frankenheimer director Eugene O’Neil’s "The Iceman Cometh" with Lee Marvin, Robert Ryan and an all star cast.

Other credits include the highly under-rated "The French Connection II." His biggest hit of the 70s was the Robert Shaw, Bruce Dern thriller "Black Sunday." He also directed one of the worst horror films of all time in 1979: "The Prophecy" with Talia Shire.

Japanophiles and action fans should check out Frankenheimer’s 1982 film "The Challenge" with Scott Glenn and Toshiro Mifune. The movie has a tight script and is filled with some incredible fight scenes. Frankenheimer followed this with the quirky Elmore Leonard story "52 Pick-Up" starring Roy Scheider, Ann Margret and an insane John Glover!

Mr. Frankenheimer returned to TV in the 90s. He directed several Emmy winning TV movies including "Wallace" and "Andersonville." He directed the interesting misfire, "The Island of Dr. Moreau" on the big screen. His last great big screen movie was the complex and exciting "Ronin" with Robert DeNiro. For an interesting insight into the director check out his commentary track on the "Ronin" DVD.

Mr. Frankenheimer died of a stroke following surgery. Thanks for entertaining us.

ROD STEIGER Died July 9, 2002

Oscar winning actor Rod Steiger died of a stroke at age 77. Mr. Steiger appeared in over 120 films during his 50-year career. Mr. Steiger gave more of himself on screen than just about any other actor who has lived. Steiger suffered from depression for most of his adult life. He turned his inner turmoil into some of the richest film performances ever delivered.

From the earliest days of his career he was a force to be reckoned with. He held his own against Marlon Brando in "On the Waterfront." That was followed by his menacing performance as Jud Fry in the musical "Oklahoma." He elevated the 1959 b-movie "Al Capone" into a camp classic with his over-the-top portrayal of Scarface Al Capone.

I recently had the pleasure of rediscovering the 1961 film "The Mark" on DVD. This powerful film dealt with a child-molester trying to change his life. Steiger played the Irish psychologist who tried to help Stuart Whitman's character. Mr. Steiger's performance is both subtle and complex. Mr. Steiger's greatest role came 3 years later in Sidney Lumet's "The Pawnbroker."

Mr. Steiger is best known for his Oscar winning performance as Sheriff Bill Gillespie in Norman Jewison's "In the Heat of the Night." I first saw that movie when I was 12. I was moved to tears by Steiger's turn as the lonely sheriff forced to reexamine his values. Steiger's Gillispie is nothing like the TV character of the same name played by Carol O'Conner. There is a scene in which Sidney Poitier's Virgil Tibbs shares a drink in Gillispie's house. Gillispie tells him that no one ever comes to his house. When Tibbs responds with sympathy, Gillespie explodes in a tirade. For a second, Gillispie let down his guard and treated a Black man as a human. He recovers in an emotional rant, which reveals much about the character. The scene is powerful and sad. Fortunately, Steiger's character comes around to see the error of his ways. Steiger's Oscar was well deserved. If you have never seen this movie, you are missing one of the best films of the 1960s.

Steiger turned in several more great performances toward the end of the 1960s. He plays a highly theatrical psychopath in the very funny black comedy "No Way to Treat a Lady." Steiger dealt with homosexuality in the military in "The Sergeant." His performance beautifully conveys the angst felt by a closeted homosexual during WWII. Steiger played multiple roles (including the title character) in the flawed but interesting Sci-Fi film "The Illustrated Man."

If I could convince one to discover an over-looked Rod Steiger film it would be Sergio Leone's "Duck You Sucker" AKA "A Fistful of Dynamite." Steiger plays Juan Miranda, an ignorant Mexican bandit who leads his enormous family on a life of crime. Miranda meets John Mallory (James Coburn), an Irish ex-patriot, during one of his robberies. Juan and John become fast friends. John is a mercenary working for revolutionaries during the Mexican Civil War. John manipulates Juan into becoming a figurehead of the revolution. The movie is an epic film of nearly three hours. It is lesser known than Leone's other spaghetti westerns and that is unfortunate. Steiger's Juan is the best developed character in any of Sergio Leone's movies. Juan is a simple man whose appearance belies his intelligence. He is not educated except in the ways of the world. If you chose to check out a Rod Steiger film, please put this one on the top of your list.

One of my guilty pleasures is the hillbilly feud film "Lolly Madonna XXX." Steiger stars with Robert Ryan, Jeff Bridges, Scott Wilson, Randy Quaid and Season Hubley in this back-woods allegory about Vietnam. It is a bit preachy at times, but Steiger delivers another great over-the-top performance as one of the patriarchs of the feuding clans.

Mr. Steiger made a lot of bad movies also. That's what happens when you make as many films as he did. Of his later films, two performances stand out. Steiger played the gung-ho general in "Mars Attacks." It is a very funny performance. One of his most terrifying roles was as Gordon Caul, the real life white-supremacist who died in a shootout with the FBI. Steiger portrayed Caul in the excellent "In the Line of Duty: Manhunt in the Dakotas."

I know I'm leaving out many other great films Mr. Steiger left us. It is hard to encapsulate such a long, painful and giving life in so few words. All I can say is thanks for what you left us. Prayers for his loved ones would be appreciated.

CHUCK TRAYNOR Died July 22, 2002

Three months to the day after ex-wife Linda Lovelace was killed in a car crash, porn producer Chuck Traynor died of a heart attack. Ex-wife Linda Lovelace said she was forced into porn at gun-point. Mr. Traynor always denied the charges.

LEO McKERN Died July 23, 2002

Leo McKern may not be a name you recognize, but his face will bring a smile to yours. Mr. McKern appeared in so many notable films and TV shows that it is hard to say what he will be best remembered for. His family can answer that question best, but I'll give you my answer as a movie fan.

The year is 1965 and The Beatles have transformed the face of pop-culture. I was 7 years old, but I had the benefit of having three teenage brothers and sisters. Richard Lester's movie "Help" was a worldwide box-office hit. Leo McKern played the role of "Clang." Clang was the leader of an Indian cult, which had to sacrifice a virgin to their God. The virgin had to be painted red and had to wear a sacred ring at the time of their sacrifice. In "Help" the virgin was deflowered by Ringo. Ringo was given the ring in gratitude. The rest of the film had cult members following the Fab 4 all over the world to recover the ring. Mr. McKern showed great comic timing in his role.

Before I ever saw "Help," I remember watching a British sci-fi film from the 50s called "X The Unknown." It is one of the better sci-fi films from that era. An overlooked gem which Mr. McKern had some small part in making better.

Another pre-"Help" credit was in the hilarious film "The Mouse That Roared" with Margaret Rutherford and Peter Sellers. Don't miss this satirical comic gem if you get the chance.

Mr. McKern played the stuffy Thomas Cromwell in the excellent "A Man For All Seasons" (1966) with Oscar winner Paul Scofield. He appeared as Thomas Ryan in David Lean's epic love story "Ryan's Daughter" (1970).

Most people will remember the crotchety Mr. McKern as Horace Rumpole in the BBC TV series "Rumpole of the Bailey." Leo McKern played Prof. Moriarty in the Gene Wilder Comedy "The Adventures of Sherlock Holmes Smarter Brother." He appeared in the Meryl Streep film "The French Lieutenant's Woman" as well as the great fantasy romance film "Ladyhawke."

I will always remember Mr. McKern for his role in the first two films of "The Omen" series. Mr. McKern played the archaeologist Bugenhagen in the both films. He led Gregory Peck to ancient proof that his son was destined to be the anti-Christ. Mr. McKern reprised his role as a cameo in "Damien: Omen II." Mr. McKern died in the opening scene. If you do not know who Mr. McKern was, I recommend that you rent or buy some of his films. I'm glad he had the opportunity to entertain me.

MAURICE DENHAM Died July 24, 2002

Mr. Denham is the second, great British character actor to die in as many days. Mr. Denham had 120 feature film and TV movie credits. The bald actor appeared in many genre films. He can be spotted in many horror, sci-fi and war films. During the 1980s, Mr. Denham worked almost exclusively in TV movies. Mr. Denham did appear in many great films during his career. His credits include David Lean's "Oliver Twist" (1948), Denham provided all of the voices for the 1954 version of George Orwell's "Animal Farm."

His horror film credits include some of the best ever made. He was one of the main characters in Jacques Tourneur's classic "Night of the Demon" (1957). He appeared in the wonderful Ingrid Pitt film "Countess Dracula" (1970). Other horror films include "The Nanny" with Bette Davis, "The Night Caller" and "Torture Garden" with Peter Cushing and Jack Palance.

One of my favorite war films "Sink the Bismark" was made more colorful by Mr. Denham's presence. He appeared in several noted films in the early 70s. "Sunday, Bloody Sunday" was a groundbreaking and award winning film about a bi-sexual love triangle. Franklin Schaffner's "Nicholas and Alexandra" told the story of the last Czar of Russia. Mr. Denham also appeared in the Oscar winning film "Julia" with Jane Fonda and Jason Robards. He also appeared in the thriller "Day of the Jackal

Mr. Denham was nominated for a British Academy Award as Best British Actor for his role in the 1954 film "The Purple Plain." Mr. Denham lived a full 92 years. He was awarded an OBE by the Queen.

BUDDY BAKER Died July 26, 2002

Mr. Baker was an Oscar-nominated composer who was a longtime employee of Walt Disney Studios. Mr. Baker began working with Disney in 1954. He composed the music for the "Daniel Boone" TV series as well as some music for the original "Mickey Mouse Club" and "Winnie the Pooh and the Blustery Day." Feature film credits include "The Fox and the Hound" "The Shaggy D.A." "$1,000,000.00 Duck" "Superdad" and "Napoleon and Samantha." Mr. Baker worked on over 40 feature film scores. He was nominated for an Oscar in 1972 for the film "Napoleon and Samantha" starring Johnny Whitaker and Jodie Foster.

DORIS WISHMAN Died Aug. 10, 2002

Doris Wishman was one of the few female directors working in exploitation films during the 1960s. Her films such as "Nude on the Moon" and "Bad Girls Go To Hell" featured lots of topless women but no real sex. Like most of the classic exploitation films, the films delivered less than they promised. The advent of hardcore pornography in the early 70s sounded the death knell for Wishman's type of exploitation films. Ms. Wishman and Russ Meyer were two of the masters of the genre to continue making these types of movies. Ms. Wishman had some success in the 70s with a couple of films starring the aptly named Chesty Morgan. Ms. Wishman later tried her hand at splatter films. "A Night to Dismember" is her best known film in that genre. She was actively working right up to her death. She recently completed her final film "Each Time I Kill." The 77 or 82 or 90 year old director died of cancer. There is some dispute about her age.

JEFF COREY Died Aug. 16, 2002

We've lost one of the greatest assets Hollywood ever had. The name might not ring a bell, but you will recognize Jeff Corey's face from his 120+ film roles during a career that spanned 60 years. Jeff Corey not only contributed to the world of film through his own performances. Jeff Corey was a teacher. One of the most respected and sought after acting teachers in the world. A short list of his students includes James Dean, Jane and Peter Fonda, Jack Nicholson, Roger Corman, Tony Perkins, Robin Williams and many, many others. It is amazing how a teacher may reach others through their work!

One of my favorite scenes in George Roy Hill's classic "Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid" involves Jeff Corey with the film's two stars. Butch and Sundance are on the run. They stop at the home of an old outlaw friend turned sheriff played by Mr. Corey. They ask him to use his influence to get them amnesty by enlisting in the army. Corey's one scene is amazing. He knows his former friends are doomed by their chosen profession. He wants to encourage them, but he knows he would just be blowing smoke by lying to the bandits. Next time you get the chance pay attention to this special scene.

Jeff Corey started in Hollywood in the late 30s. He served in WWII, and was a respected combat photographer. Corey was to fall victim to Joseph McCarthy in the 1950s. When subpoenaed to the House Un-American Activities Committee, Corey refused to name names. He had given up his youthful flirtation with communism years before, but he didn't feel like ruining other people's lives so he could continue to work. He didn't work again for 10 years. Jeff Corey was a man of principle who was not afraid to pay the consequences of his convictions. His black-listing was ironic as he saw through the failure of communism and refused to defend its philosophies. He also believed American's had the right to think for themselves and refused to name names.

Corey's film appearances include "The Devil and Daniel Webster," "Frankenstein Meets the Wolfman," "My Friend Flicka," "The Killers," "Miracle on 34th Street," "The Next Voice You Hear," "Fourteen Hours," "The Cincinnati Kid," "In Cold Blood," "The Boston Strangler," "Seconds," "True Grit," "Beneath the Planet of the Apes," "Little Big Man," "Oh God!," "The Wild Geese," "Battle Beyond the Stars," "Bird on a Wire" and "Color of Night."

Corey also directed on TV. He directed episodes of "Night Gallery," "Alias Smith and Jones" and "Hawkins" among others. He also acted in TV from the early 50s until 2000. Mr. Corey died at age 88 from complications from a fall he suffered at home last week.

DEAN REISNER Died Aug. 18, 2002

"I know what you're thinking. 'Did he fire six shots, or only five?' Well, to tell you the truth, in all this excitement, I kind of lost track myself. But being this is a .44 Magnum, the most powerful hand gun in the world...and would blow you're head clean off, you've got to ask yourself just one question: 'Do I feel lucky?'...Well, do ya, punk?" Dean Riesner, the writer of some of the all-time great tough-guy movies has died at age 83.

Dean Riesner was the son of Charles Riesner, a silent film director. As a child, Dean Riesner appeared in several silent movies including Charlie Chaplin's "The Pilgrim." Riesner appeared in several films from the 1920 through the 1980s. However, Riesner was best known as a screenwriter.

Riesner wrote movies for GUYS. Riesner served in the Coast Guard in the Pacific during WWII. A man's man, Riesner wrote or co-wrote several scripts for Clint Eastwood movies. Riesner collaborated with Harry and Rita Fink and John Milius to write "Dirty Harry." Riesner also wrote the third 'Dirty Harry' film "The Enforcer." Other Eastwood scripts include "Play Misty for Me," "Coogan's Bluff" and "High Plains Drifter." Riesner also wrote the script for "Charley Varrick." "Charlie Varrick" was a tough crime drama directed by Don Siegal, the director of "Dirty Harry."

Mr. Riesner wrote for several TV series during the 1950s and 60s, including "The Outer Limits," "Ben Casey" and "Rawhide."

During the 1980s Riesner worked uncredited as a script doctor on several hit films including the American version of "Das Boot," "Blue Thunder" and "Starman."

Riesner was nominated for an Emmy in 1971 for the all-star, political thriller "Vanished." Both "Vanished" and "Dirty Harry" garnered 'Edgar Allan Poe' nominations for best screenplays in 1971. Riesner received a second Emmy nomination for the 1976 mini series "Rich Man, Poor Man.

J. LEE THOMPSON Died Aug. 30, 2002

British action director J. Lee Thompson died at age 88 of congestive heart failure. Mr. Thompson directed nearly 50 films during his 40-year career. Mr. Thompson was known mainly for his action films. He directed nine of Charles Bronson's lesser films including "Death Wish IV" and "Kinjite: Forbidden Subjects." Mr. Thompson also directed two of the theatrical "Planet of the Apes" films.

Mr. Thompson's two best films came out in 1961 and 61. "The Guns of Navarone" was a grand-scale WWII film starring Gregory Peck and David Niven. Mr. Thompson received his only Oscar nomination for direction "Navarone." His best film, in my humble opinion was the original version of "Cape Fear." Thompson reteamed with Gregory Peck to create one of the best suspense films ever made. Robert Mitchum and a very sensual Polly Bergan rounded out a great cast. Thompson's "Cape Fear" is superior to Scorsese's remake in all respects.

LIONEL HAMPTON Died Aug. 31, 2002

Legendary American jazz musician Lionel Hampton died at age 94. Mr. Hampton was the master of the "vibes" (that's vibrophone to non-fans). Mr. Hampton appeared in nearly 30 feature films or documentaries playing himself.

TED ROSS Died Sept. 3, 2002

Highly recognizable character actor Ted Ross has died. Mr. Ross was the Cowardly Lion in the film version of "The Wiz." He also played Dudley Moore chauffeur in "Arthur." Mr. Ross appeared in one of the best TV series of the 1980s: "The Equalizer." Other film credits include Milos Forman's "Ragtime" and "The Fisher King." Mr. Ross won a Tony award as the Cowardly Lion in "Wiz" on Broadway.

CLIFF GORMAN Died Sep. 5, 2002

As a teenager I loved NBC’s anthology series "Police Story." That is where I first remember seeing Cliff Gorman. Mr. Gorman had intensity, which was dangerous. He played characters that were usually smarter than those around them and frustrated because those others had more power than he. I never tired of his performances, even in bad movies. Cliff Gorman kept the audience wondering what he would do next.

Gorman starred or appeared in several of my favorite films. "Night of the Juggler" is one of the best B-Movies you’ve never seen. Mr. Gorman played a super-intelligent, psycho kidnapper who takes James Brolin’s daughter from a private school. Turns out that Brolin is poor and his kid was there on a hardship scholarship. Gorman took the wrong child. The rest of the film is a non-stop chase between the two men across New York City. If you’re lucky enough to find this at your video store, get it. Gorman’s dark intensity makes for a memorable villain.

Obviously I’m a little obsessed with death. Bob Fosse’s autobiographical film "All That Jazz" is another favorite of mine. Mr. Gorman played Dustin Hoffman’s fictional counter-part in that film. He plays the actor appearing in the fictional "Lenny" within the movie. (It isn’t as complicated as it sounds!) Again, Mr. Gorman’s dangerous persona adds just the right amount of kink to add to Fosse’s rich cinematic tapestry. I always wondered if Bob Fosse hated Dustin Hoffman after seeing "All That Jazz." Mr. Gorman won a Tony Award for his stage performance as Lenny Bruce in 1971.

Mr. Gorman first gained notice for his performance in the stage and screen versions of "The Boys in the Band." His effeminate Emory in the gay comedy was a character in extreme juxtaposition to the tough-guy roles he often played on TV cop shows. Mr. Gorman was also nominated for a Tony Award for "The Boys in the Band." Other credits include "Ghost Dog: The Way of the Samurai," "Rosebud," "Hoffa" and "Night and the City." Mr. Gorman died of leukemia at age 65. Trivia note: Cliff Gorman, Lenny Bruce and yours truly were all born on October 13^th!

KIM HUNTER Died Sep. 11, 2002

I had the pleasure of interviewing Kim Hunter at the 2001 Memphis Film Festival in August of last year. She was living proof that you shouldn’t judge someone by her size. The petite actress was a powerhouse talent. Ms. Hunter seemed a bit frail, but her mind was as sharp and she displayed a keen wit. It was a privilege to talk with her over the three days of the festival.

Ms. Hunter won the Best Actress Oscar as Marlon Brando’s wife, Stella in "A Streetcar Named Desire." Of course, Ms. Hunter was probably most adored for her performances as Dr. Zira in the first three "Planet of the Apes" films. Ms. Hunter’s Zira was a lot like the lady herself, strong, idealistic and willing to take a stand.

Ms. Hunter appeared in 65 feature films, TV movies and documentaries. She also appeared in over 40 TV series. She was nominated for daytime Emmy in 1980 for her work on "The Edge of Night." In 2000, she was nominated for a Genie (Canada’s Oscar) as Best Actress for "Here’s to Life!," which was her final feature film. In addition to her extensive work in film and TV, Ms. Hunter was a highly respected stage actress.

Ms. Hunter’s credits include Val Lewton’s "The Seventh Victim," "The Swimmer" with Burt Lancaster, "Born Innocent" with Linda Blair and Dario Argento’s "The Black Cat." The 79-year-old actress died of a heart attack at home in Greenwich Village.

JOHNNY UNITAS Died Sep. 11, 2002

I pissed my dad off twice in the winters of 1968 and 69. The first thing I said was the Richard Nixon would win the presidency. The second was that Joe Namath would lead the NY Jets to victory in the Super Bowl over the powerhouse Baltimore Colts led by Johnny Unitas. Johnny Unitas held 22 NFL records when he retired in 1973 after 17 years in the pros. Mr. Unitas was the subject of a TV documentary "Unitas" in 2000. Mr. Unitas played the head coach of the Knights in Oliver Stone’s "Any Given Sunday." Mr. Unitas also appeared as himself in a couple of movies and TV shows. His son Joe is an actor who appeared in "Bandits" and "The Princess Diaries." Mr. Unitas died of a heart attack at age 69.

LAWANDA PAGE Died Sep. 14, 2002

81 year-old Lawanda Page was best known as the Aunt Esther on the hit TV series, "Sanford and Son." Esther was the nemesis of Red Foxx’s character ‘Fred Sanford.’ Many of the shows best gags came from Red Foxx thinking up new ways to call Esther ugly. Ms. Page’s catch line in the show was "watch it sucker." Like Red Foxx, Ms. Page had quite a following for her off-color stand-up comedy routines. She was a one-time partner of Rudy Ray Moore of "Dolemite" fame. Ms. Page released a number of comedy albums. In later years, Ms. Page continued to act on stage and screen. Credits include "CB4," "Friday," "Don’t Be a Menace to South Central While Drinking Your Juice in the Hood" and "Meteor Man." Ms. Page died of complications from diabetes.

MICHAEL GREER Died Sep. 14, 2002

Michael Greer died of lung cancer at age 64. Mr. Greer was an actor and comedian. His most famous role was as "Queenie," the prison drag queen in Sal Mineo's stage and the Harvey Hart film version's of "Fortune and Men’s Eyes" which dealt with sex in prison. Mr. Greer appeared as Don Johnson’s friend in the 60s cult film "The Magical Garden of Stanley Sweetheart." That movie was also Don Johnson’s big screen debut. Other credits include the B-Movie sex comedy "Summer School Teachers" and "The Gay Deceivers" about two guys avoiding combat in Vietnam by pretending to be gay. Mr. Greer also had bit parts in the Steve Martin comedy "The Lonely Guy" and the Bette Midler vehicle "The Rose."

CHARLES DENTON Died Sep. 15, 2002

Charles Denton wrote one of the most famous films that will never be seen. I first heard about "The Day the Clown Cried" about 20 years ago in the book "The Golden Turkey Awards." I thought the film was a joke. Jerry Lewis (quite alive, pictured hamming it up on the set of the 1972 film) plays a clown who is used by the Nazis to lead children into the gas chambers of Auschwitz. The movie was never finished due to legal battles between Jerry Lewis and the writers of the original script, including Mr. Denton. I have always been curious to see what exists of the film, but Jerry Lewis has it locked away. This was years before "It’s a Beautiful Life." "The Day the Clown Cried" is the only credit Mr. Denton has listed on IMDB. Mr. Denton died of a heart attack.

JAMES GREGORY Died Sep. 16, 2001

James Gregory portrayed the McCarthy-like Senator John Iselin in the classic thriller "The Manchurian Candidate." Mr. Gregory has died at age 90. TV viewers in the 70s knew him as the usually wrong Inspector Luger on the comedy show "Barney Miller." To sci-fi fans he was the evil ape general Ursus in "Beneath the Planet of the Apes." Mr. Gregory appeared in over 50 films or TV series during his career. He started as a stage actor. He played the oldest son, Biff in "Death of a Salesman" on Broadway.

WHITNEY BLAKE Died Sep. 28, 2002

Whitney Blake was best known as the mother on the 1960s TV series "Hazel" which starred Oscar winner Shirley Booth. Ms. Blake was the second cast member of "Hazel" to die this day. Whitney Blake was the mother of actress Meredith Baxter Birney. Ms. Blake made quest appearances on numerous TV shows, mostly Westerns during the 1950s and 60s. Ms. Blake’s film and TV movie credits include "The Betsy," "My Gun is Quick" and "Strange Homecoming." Ms. Blake was also the co-creator of the 1970s hit sitcom "One Day at a Time" starring Bonnie Franklin. Ms. Blake was 76 years-old.

BRUCE PALTROW Died Oct. 3, 2002

Producer/director Bruce Paltrow died in Rome of pneumonia at age 58. Mr. Paltrow was the husband of actress Blythe Danner, and the father of actress Gwyneth Paltrow and director Jake Paltrow (NYPD BLUE). Mr. Paltrow’s first big success was as the writer and producer of one of my all-time favorite made-for-TV movies, "Shirts/Skins." "Shirts/Skins" deals with six friends who play basketball once a week. The pent-up frustration and rage of these successful businessmen always causes their games to degenerate into a fight. To prove who is the best, the guys split into two teams and each agree to hide a basketball in plain sight somewhere in the city. The team, which finds the other guy’s ball first, is the winners and presumably the bigger men. The game soon resorts to a series of felonies. It is a hilarious movie about the little boys inside of grown men. Catch it is you can.

Mr. Paltrow was nominated for two Emmy awards as producer of the Ken Howard basketball TV series "The White Shadow." Mr. Paltrow also directed episodes of that series. Mr. Paltrow produced and directed episodes of the TV series "St. Elsewhere." His feature film directing credits include "A Little Sex" and his final film "Duets." Prayers of support for his family and friends.

AILEEN WUORNOS Died Oct. 9, 2002

The state of Florida executed female serial killer Aileen Wuornos. Ms. Wuornos murdered six men while posing as a prostitute. She was an oddity as a majority of serial killers are white males. Ms. Wournos appeared in the documentary "Aileen Wuornos: The Selling of a Serial Killer." She was portrayed by Jean Smart in the TV movie "Overkill: The Aileen Wuornos Story." Ms. Wuornos denied her guilt for a long time. She recently dropped her appeals, admitted guilt and said she had made peace with God. Prayers for the families of her victims and Ms. Wuornos’ family. UPDATE: Charlize Theron won the 2004 Best Actress Oscar for her great portrayal of Ms. Wuornos in Patty Jenkins's revisionist look at the killer: "Monster."

TERESA GRAVES Died Oct. 10, 2002

Actress Teresa Graves died in a fire at her home in Los Angeles. The 54-year-old actress is best known for her role in the 1974-75 TV series "Get Christie Love." "Get Christie Love" was one of the inspirations for Quentin Tarantino’s "Jackie Brown." Fans of "Reservoir Dogs" will remember the scene inside a car in which Chris Penn, Harvey Keitel, Steve Buscemi and Tim Roth were talking about favorite TV shows. The four actors said the "Get Christie Love" catch phrase, "You’re under arrest, sugar!" in unison. Ms. Graves also appeared in the movies "Black Eye," "That Man Bolt" and the David Niven horror spoof "Old Dracula." She also appeared on the TV series "Rowan and Martin’s Laugh-In" and the short lived (1 episode) "Turn On." Ms. Graves gave up acting due to her strong religious beliefs which she felt contradicted the types of roles she had played and was being offered.

DENNIS PATRICK Died Oct. 12, 2002

Yet another actor has died in a house fire. Just two days after Teresa Graves perished in a fire at her home, veteran character actor Dennis Patrick also died in a fire at his home. Mr. Patrick was 84 years old. Dennis Patrick co-starred with Peter Boyle and Susan Sarandon in the 1970 cult classic "Joe." Mr. Patrick played Susan Sarandon’s father in the story of a wealthy business man who murders his daughter’s drug dealing boyfriend. Mr. Patrick played Vaughn Leland for five years on "Dallas." Mr. Patrick played two roles on the gothic-horror soap opera "Dark Shadows" during the 1960s. He also appeared in t