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Here's a look back at some of the folk who passed away during the year 2003. 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.

ROYCE APPLEGATE Died Jan. 1, 2003

Character actor Royce Applegate was killed in a major house fire in Los Angeles on New Year’s day. Mr. Applegate’s familiar face has been seen on TV and in film for more than 30 years. Mr. Applegate played Henry, the store owner who sold young Jimmy Morris his baseball socks in last year’s "The Rookie." Credits include the upcoming Civil War drama "Gods and Generals," "Oh Brother Where Art Thou?," "Under Seige 2," "The Getaway" (remake), "White Sands," "Armed and Dangerous," "Splash," "Attack on Terror: The FBI vs. the Ku Klux Klan," and Burt Reynold’s "Fuzz." Mr. Applegate did voice work on "Rain Man," "Driving Miss Daisy" and "Ramblin Rose." His TV credits include the sci-fi series "Sea Quest," "Mayberry RFD," "Twin Peaks," "Starsky and Hutch," "Quantum Leap" and "Dallas" among others. Mr. Applegate also wrote two films: "Evil Town" and "Loose Shoes."

CONRAD HALL Died Jan. 4, 2003

I was talking to actor Dan Poor today during the first day of shooting on Jeremy Benson’s film "If Time Stood Still." We were talking about the great scene at the end of "In Cold Blood" in which Robert Blake talks to the prison priest about his relationship with his father. During the scene, the shadow of raindrops on a windowpane reflect on Mr. Blake’s face, symbolic of tears his character can’t shed. I told Mr. Porter that in the great documentary "Visions of Light," cinematographer Conrad Hall said the effect was pure accident. Needless to say, I was surprised when I got home and found out that the man we had been discussing had just died. Conrad L. Hall, one of the greatest cinematographer who ever lived died of complications from bladder cancer. Conrad Hall was born in Tahiti, the son of James Norman Hall, the man who wrote "Mutiny on the Bounty."

Conrad Hall was nominated for the Best Cinematography Oscar nine times! He won twice, for "Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid" and "American Beauty." Mr. Hall began his career doing TV commercials and industrial films. Some of the best films of the last 40 years are among his 35 credits. He worked with director Richard Brooks on three films including "In Cold Blood" and the great Western "The Professionals." Hall was nominated for both films.

Conrad Hall contributed to so many great movies. He worked on the Esperanto language horror film "Incubus" with William Shatner. Mr. Hall lensed one of my all time favorite films, "Cool Hand Luke" with Paul Newman. Other credits include "Hell in the Pacific" with Lee Marvin and Toshiro Mifune, John Huston’s "Fat City," "Tell Them Willie Boy is Here" and "Electra Glide in Blue" both with Robert Blake and Michael Ritchie’s satirical look at beauty pageants "Smile." "Day of the Locust" provides one of the best portraits of the unforgiving under belly of Hollywood. Mr. Hall received his 5^th Oscar nomination for that chilling film. Mr. Hall also captured the tension of William Goldman’s great script in 1976’s "Marathon Man."

Conrad Hall took ten years off, but returned to film in 1987 with Theresa Russell and Debra Winger in "Black Widow." Mr. Hall picked up more Oscar nominations for "Tequila Sunrise," "Searching for Bobby Fischer," "A Civil Action" and he won his second for Sam Mendes' brilliant "American Beauty." Mr. Hall’s final film was last years "Road to Perdition."

JEAN KERR Died Jan. 5, 2003

Renowned playwright and author Jean Kerr died of pneumonia at age 80. Three of Ms. Kerr’s works were turned into movies and a TV series. Kerr’s most famous work was the book "Please Don’t Eat the Daisies" which was filmed with Doris Day and David Niven. "Please Don’t Eat the Daisies" was later turned into a TV series which ran from 1965 through 1967. Kerr’s play "Knave of Hearts" was filmed as "That Certain Feeling" with Bob Hope and Eva Marie Saint. Kerr also wrote the play "Mary, Mary" which Mervyn Leroy filmed with Debbie Reynolds and Barry Nelson.

MAURICE GIBB Died Jan. 11, 2003

Bee Gees member Maurice Gibb died at age 53. Mr. Gibb suffered heart failure while waiting to undergo surgery for a blocked intestine. Mr. Gibb was a member of the pop/rock group The Bee Gees, along with his twin brother Robin and older brother Barry.

The Bee Gees emerged during the 1960s with a long string of top-10 hits. The band surpassed their own achievements in the 1960s with the advent of disco. Their soundtrack for the movie "Saturday Night Fever" remains one of the best selling soundtrack albums of all time.

Maurice Gibb contributed to films as a composer, songwriter and actor. The Bee Gee’s attempt to break into film as actors was in the 1978 movie version of the Beatles classic album "Sgt. Peppers Lonely Hearts Club Band." The movie bombed. Mr. Gibb also wrote, produced and starred in 1970 musical comedy "Cucumber Castle." The Bee Gee’s biggest contributions to the movie industry came via their music. Bee Gee’s songs have appeared in numerous films including "The Magical Garden of Stanley Sweetheart," "Saturday Night Fever," "Neighbors," "Staying Alive," "Short Circuit," "Cadillac Man," "Mars Attacks!," "True Lies," "Honey, I Blew Up the Kid," "Mystery Men" and "Zoolander."

KINJI FUKASAKU Died Jan. 12, 2003

Prolific Japanese director Kinji Fukasaku died of cancer at age 72. Fukasaku directed over 60 films. He was nominated as Best Director and Best Screenplay by the Awards of the Japanese Academy for his controversial film "Battle Royale." "Battle Royale" caused a stir with its morbid storyline. In a futuristic society, the government decides to solve juvenile crime by taking a high-school class to a deserted island. The kids are given weapons. The rules are simple. Kill each other. The last person standing may return to society! Fukasaku’s other credits include the cheesy "Star Wars" rip-off, "Message From Space" with Sonny Chiba and Vic Morrow, portions of the Pearl Harbor bore "Tora! Tora! Tora!" and the goofy sci-fi monster movie "The Green Slime." Thanks for the fun movies.

NORMAN PANAMA Died Jan. 13, 2003

Oscar nominated writer/director/producer Norman Panama died of Parkinson’s Disease at age 88. Mr. Panama was nominated for Best Screenplay three times. He received a life achievement award from the Writers Guild of America in 1984. Five of his scripts also received Best Writing nominations by the WGA. Mr. Panama had 30 scripts produced between 1942 and 1984. His writing credits include some gems of the silver screen. One of my all time favorite comedies is "Mr. Blandings Builds His Dream House" with Myrna Loy and Cary Grant. Mr. Panama wrote and produced that classic. The scene in which Myrna Loy tells the contractors what color she wants different parts of the house painted is one of the funniest scenes in the history of film. Mr. Panama wrote/produced and directed another all time comedy great. "The Court Jester" with Danny Kaye plays as well today as when it came out in 1956. Don’t forget that "The Flagon with the Dragon has the pellet with the poison, the vessel with the pestle has the brew that is truwe." If you’ve seen the movie you know what I’m talking about. Other writing credits include "White Christmas," "That Certain Feeling," "Not With My Wife, You Don’t!," "Li’l Abner," "Knock on Wood" and "The Road to Hong Kong." Mr. Panama directed and produced 15 films. Mr. Panama made eight films with Bob Hope.

PAUL MONASH Died Jan. 14, 2003

Yet another major player involved in the film "Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid" has died. Producer Paul Monash died at age 85 after a brief illness. Mr. Monash was the executive producer on the Oscar nominated film. "Sundance" director George Roy Hill and cinematographer Conrad Hall also died recently. Paul Monash was the son of silent film actress Rhoda Melrose. Mr. Monash was a screenwriter and producer. Mr. Monash began writing for TV during the days of live dramatic shows. He wrote some of the best dramatic shows ever filmed for TV. His credits include the "Kraft Television Theater" and "Studio One." Later TV writing credits include Stephen King’s vampire saga "Salem’s Lot," the Turner Network biographies of "Stalin" with Robert Duvall, "George Wallace" with Gary Sinise and "Kingfish: The Story of Huey P. Long" with John Goodman. Mr. Monash co-created the TV series "Peyton Place" and wrote the sci-fi mini-series "V." Mr. Monash also wrote the teleplay for the 1980 Made for TV "All Quiet on the Western Front" with Richard Thomas and Ernest Borgnine. Mr. Monash’s feature film writing included uncredited work on Orson Welles’ classic "Touch of Evil."

While Paul Monash was a powerhouse writer, he also had success in the industry as a producer. Mr. Monash produced numerous TV shows and feature films. Along with "Sundance," Mr. Monash also produced director George Roy Hill’s "Slaughterhouse Five." Other credits include Brian De Palma’s "Carrie," "The Front Page" with Jack Lemmon and Walter Mathau, John Carpenter’s "Big Trouble in Little China" and "Carrie 2: The Rage." Mr. Monash produced one of the best crime movies of the 1970s. "The Friends of Eddie Coyle" with Robert Mitchum and Peter Boyle has been on my short list of films to write a "Video Risk" about. Do not miss the change to rent or buy this movie. A great crime/character study, with Robert Mitchum in a great performance.

MEL BOURNE Died Jan. 14, 2003

Oscar nominated Art Director/Production Designer Mel Bourne died of heart failure after a brief illness. Mr. Bourne was 79 years old. Mr. Bourne is best known for his association with Woody Allen. Mr. Bourne was the production designer on six Woody Allen films and the Art Director on another. Mr. Bourne was nominated for a Best Art Director Oscar for Woody Allen’s "Interiors," Barry Levinson’s "The Natural" and Terry Gilliam’s "The Fisher King." Mr. Bourne also appeared in "The Fisher King." He played the millionare that Robin Williams’s character believes is the owner of the Holy Grail.

Mr. Bourne also collaborated with director Michael Mann on the TV series "Miami Vice," the great crime drama "Thief" with James Caan and the original Hannibal Lecktor movie "Manhunter."

Mr. Bourne’s credits include "Interiors," "Broadway Danny Rose," "Annie Hall," "Zelig," "Stardust Memories," "Manhatten," "F/X," "The Miracle Worker," "A Midsummer’s Night Sex Comedy," "Fatal Attraction," "Indecent Proposal," the remake of "Gloria," "Reversal of Fortune" and "Striptease."

RICHARD CRENNA Died Jan. 17, 2003

Veteran actor Richard Crenna died suddenly of pancreatic cancer at age 76. The widely recognized actor leaves his wife Penni and three children.

Richard Crenna was probably the first actor I knew by name. I remember watching "The Real McCoys" every afternoon as a pre-schooler in the early 1960s. Mr. Crenna was an established veteran of TV and radio by that time. Mr. Crenna’s acting career began in radio while he was still in high school. Mr. Crenna gained national notice in the 1950s TV series "Our Miss Brooks." He followed that show with the role of a poor California farmer in "The Real McCoys." Mr. Crenna received the first of four Emmy nominations for his portrayal of Luke McCoy. Crenna made the transition from comedy to drama in the early 1960s. He received two more Emmy nominations for his work in "Slattery’s People," a TV series about a dedicated state legislator.

Mr. Crenna made over 100 feature and made for TV movies. He is probably best known worldwide for his role as Colonel Samuel Trautman in the "Rambo" trilogy. Mr. Crenna turned in some wonderful performances in many films. While he was perfect as the square-jawed Green Beret in the Rambo movies, Mr. Crenna was an actor of great depth and range. He appeared in many of my favorite films.

Steve McQueen received his only Oscar nomination as Navy engineer Jake Holman in Robert Wise’s "The Sand Pebbles." Richard Crenna played Commander Collins, the commander of the San Pablo, a US gunboat in 1920s China. Crenna has a wonderful scene in which his crew has disgraced the flag. He is alone in his cabin, contemplating suicide when word comes that his ship is needed for war. The conflict and distress that Crenna displayed in that scene is a lesson for any actor.

Mr. Crenna was able to portray both good-guys and bad-guys. Some of his more memorable heavy roles were in the films "Wait Until Dark" with Audrey Hepburn, "Breakheart Pass" with Charles Bronson and "Body Heat" with Kathleen Turner and William Hurt.

Mr. Crenna won an Emmy the fourth time he was nominated. "The Rape of Richard Beck" is a brutal, uncompromising TV film. Crenna plays a cop who feels that female rape victims are asking for it what happens to them. The tables turn when Beck, himself is raped. Crenna’s performance is one of the best you will see. Mr. Crenna portrayed detective Frank Janek in seven made for TV movies beginning with 1985’s "Doubletake." The Janek films are show quite often on Lifetime and Court TV. There’s not a bad film in the bunch.

Mr. Crenna’s credits include "It Grows on Trees," "The Pride of St. Louis," "Midas Run," "Marooned," "Catlow," "Red Sky at Morning," "The Flamingo Kid," "Summer Rental," "The Case of the Hill Side Stranglers," "Hot Shot! Part Deux," "Sabrina" and "Wrongfully Accused."

AL HIRSCHFELD Died Jan. 19, 2003

Artist Al Hirschfeld created the most recognizable caricatures in the world. Mr. Hirschfeld died in his sleep at age 99. Mr. Hirschfeld covered the world of theater for nearly 70 years. His work is immediately recognizable to anyone who has been alive in the last century. Mr. Hirschfeld’s pen and ink drawings usually held a hidden word "NINA" for his daughter. Mr. Hirschfeld was the subject of a 1996 documentary "The Line King: Al Hirschfeld." He also appeared as himself in several other documentaries including "Marlene: Inventing Dietrich," "The Tramp and the Dictator" and "Broadway: The Golden Age, by the Legends Who Were There." Mr. Hirschfeld was also an artistic consultant on the updated "Fantasia: 2000."

NEDRA VOLZ Died Jan. 20, 2003

Actress Nedra Volz died of complications from Alzheimer’s Disease at age 94. Ms. Volz made a career out of playing "Old Ladies." Ms. Volz was a regular on several TV series including "Different Strokes," "The Dukes of Hazzard," "The Fall Guy," "Filthy Rich" and "Babes." Ms. Volz made guest appearances on many other TV shows including the Norman Lear series "All in the Family," "Maude" and "The Jeffersons." Her film credits include Blake Edwards’ "10," "Moving Violations," "Lust in the Dust," "Earth Girls Are Easy" and the HBO comedy "The Great White Hype."

BILL MAULDIN Died Jan 22, 2003

WWII history buffs will be saddened to learn about the death of cartoonist Bill Mauldin. Mauldin created the two GIs named "Willie" and "Joe" who represented the hard work, suffering, humor, frustration and victories of the American fighting men in WWII. Mauldin drew his famous cartoons while serving as an Army Sergeant in the European theater of war. Mauldin’s "Willie and Joe" novels "Up Front" and "Back Up Front" were both made into movies. Mauldin appeared as himself in the documentary "America in the 1940s." Mauldin acted in the movies "The Red Badge of Courage" and "Teresa." Mr. Mauldin became an editorial cartoonist after the war. One of his most famous cartoons was the image of the statue of Abraham Lincoln with its head in its hands crying at the news of JFK’s assasination. Mr. Mauldin was 81 years old.

NELL CARTER Died Jan. 23, 2003

Tony and Emmy Award winning actress/singer Nell Carter died at age 54. Ms. Carter was known for her powerful singing voice and stage presence. One of the highlights of Milos Forman’s 1979 film "Hair" is Ms. Carter’s sexy/funny song "White Boys." She also sang the powerful "Ain’t Got No" in that same film. Ms. Carter’s other film roles include "Back Roads" with Tommy Lee Jones and "Modern Problems" with Chevy Chase. Ms. Carter is probably best known to TV fans for the TV series "Gimme a Break! " Ms. Carter won an Emmy Award for the TV special "Ain’t Misbehavin. She won the Tony award for the Broadway version of the same play.

LANA CLARKSON Died Feb. 3, 2003

B-Movie actress Lana Clarkson was found shot to death at the home of legendary music producer Phil Spector Monday. Spector is being investigated by LAPD homicide detectives. Details about the shooting are still sketchy at this point. The Los Angeles Times reported that their sources said that the couple had just met the night before. The limo driver who dropped them of at Spector’s mansion reporting hearing shots. Spector has admitted mental problems and an obsession with guns in the past. Ms. Clarkson appeared in a number of films and TV series. She also did some work as a stunt woman. Fans of the sword and sorcery genre will remember Ms. Clarkson for her work in "The Barbarian Queen I & II." Ms. Clarkson appeared as one of the main space bimbos in John Landis’s comedy "Amazon Women on the Moon." She had bit parts in Brian De Palma’s "Scarface" as Steven Bauer’s dance partner at the Babylon Club and Amy Heckerling’s "Fast Times at Ridgemont High." In "Fast Times," Ms. Clarkson played the trophy wife of science teacher Vincent Schivelli during the prom scene. Other credits include "Blind Date," "Death Stalker," "Another 9 and ½ Weeks" and "Vice Girls." Ms. Clarkson also did stand-up comedy and volunteered to deliver meals to HIV patients. Prayers of comfort for her loved ones.

UPDATE: Phil Spector was charged with the murder of Ms. Clarkson on November 20, 2003.

RON ZEIGLER Died Feb. 10, 2002

Ron Zeigler had the toughest job you can imagine. Mr. Zeigler was former President Richard Nixon’s press secretary during the Watergate scandal. Zeigler faced reporters night after night as more and more evidence piled up that the Constitution was being trampled on by the Nixon administration. Zeigler appeared as himself in archived footage in Sidney Pollack’s "All the President’s Men." Actor David Paymer played Zeigler in Oliver Stone’s "Nixon." Mr. Zeigler died of a heart attack at age 63.

STACY KEACH SR. Died Feb. 13, 2003

Stacy Keach Sr., actor, drama coach and father of actors Stacy and James Keach has died of congestive heart failure at age 88. Mr. Keach was a drama teacher when he decided to movie to Hollywood in the 1940s. Mr. Keach was a dialogue director on several films in the 1940s including "Ali Baba and the 40 Thieves." Mr. Keach appeared in hundreds of TV shows and nearly 30 films. Keach played Professor Carlson on the Mel Brooks TV spy spoof series, "Get Smart." Mr. Keach occasionally played bit parts in the films of his famous sons. He appeared with Stacy Keach Jr. in "Road Games" and the excellent TV movie "Mission of the Shark: The Saga of the U.S.S. Indianapolis." The elder Keach appeared in "Armed and Dangerous" which was written and produced by his son James. Mr. Keach was also a prolific actor in TV commercials. Other credits include "Pretty Woman" and "Cobb." Mr. Keach appeared in several of my personal favorites. Alan J. Pakula’s "The Parallax View" is one the greatest political thrillers of all time. Keach played one of the members of a Warren Commisionesque committee. The aforementioned "Road Games" with his son Stacy and Jamie Lee Curtis is another excellent thriller. Mr. Keach also appeared in John Milius’s great surfer movie "Big Wednesday" with Gary Busey, Jan-Michael Vincent and William Katt. I’m grateful to Mr. Keach for his sons. Stacy and James Keach are two of the more interesting actors to have worked in film during the last 30 years. Prayers of comfort for his family.

JOHNNY PAYCHECK Died Feb. 19, 2003

Country singer Johnny PayCheck died at age 64 after suffering from asthma and emphysema for years. Best known for the song "Take This Job and Shove It," Johnny Paycheck released 70 albums during his lifetime. His most famous song was turned into a movie starring Robert Hays and Barbara Hershey. Mr. PayCheck appeared in several movies and TV shows including "Hells Angels Forever," "Paradise Park" and "The Dukes of Hazzard."

ARNOLD GALSSMAN Died Feb. 19, 2003

Award winning film editor and documentary filmmaker Arnold Glassman died at age 56. Glassman co-produced, co-directed and edited the amazing documentary "Visions of Light." Anyone interested in the art of cinematography has to see Glassman’s award winning film. "Visions of Light" examines the craft of motion picture photography from the earliest days of film history. Most of the greatest cinematographers in history appear in the film. "Visions of Light" is one of the greatest films ever made. Glassman’s powerful film proves that documentaries can be as exciting as the biggest budget action film. In addition to "Visions of Light," Glassman directed the documentary "Hitchcock: Shadow of a Genius."

Asrnold Glassman was also an accomplished film editor. His credits include an associate editor credit on "Raising Arizona." He edited the documentaries "The Celluloid Closet," "Sex, Censorship and the Silver Screen" and "Gene Kelly: Anatomy of a Dancer." Mr. Glassman also edited the Brent Hanley scripted thriller "Frailty."

DANIEL TARADASH Died Feb. 22, 2003

Oscar winning screenwriter Daniel Taradash died at age 90. Mr. Taradash won the Oscar for Best Screenplay in 1953 for his adaptation of James Jones novel "From Here to Eternity." Mr. Taradash adapted William Inge's play "Picnic" for the screen. "Picnic" is one of my favorite films. William Holden and Kim Novak make one sexy couple. Taradash’s other credits include adapting Clifford Odetts’ play "Golden Boy" to the screen. He also wrote the screenplays for "Castle Keep," "Rancho Notorious," "Hawaii" and "The Other Side of Midnight." Mr. Taradash wrote the screenplay for the film noir classic "Knock on Any Door." That film contained one of the great lines of quotable dialogue in film history. John Derek played young thug Nick Romano. He uttered the line "Live fast, die young, leave a good-looking corpse." Mr. Taradash wrote and directed one film: "Storm Center" with Bette Davis. Mr. Taradash was the president of the Writer’s Guild of America from 1977 to 1979.

WALTER SCHARF Died Feb. 24, 2003

Multi-Oscar nominated and Emmy award winning composer Walter Scharf died at age 92. Mr. Scharf was nominated for an Oscar an amazing 10 times, however ownership of the golden statue eluded Mr. Scharf. He composed scores for over 150 films and TV shows. He won the Emmy for his "National Geographic" and "Jacques Cousteau" TV scores. Mr. Scharf’s career in film spanned 55 years. His credits include all three "Walking Tall" films, "Ben" the sequel to "Willard," the TV series "Mission Impossible" and "The Wild, Wild West," several Jerry Lewis films including "The Nutty Professor," " Willie Wonka and the Chocolate Factory" and "Mr. Magoo’s Christmas Carol."

FRED ROGERS Died Feb. 27, 2003

It’s a sad day in the neighborhood. Fred Rogers died of stomach cancer at age 74. Fred Rogers was an ordained Presbytarian minister. Mr. Rogers taught young children about the wonders of the world for 32 years through his PBS TV series "Mr. Rogers Neighborhood." With characters like King Friday XIII, Queen Sara Saturday, Edgar Cooke, X the Owl, Henrietta Pussycat, Lady Elaine Fairchilde, Daniel Striped Tiger, Cornflake S. Pecially, Grandpere and Donkey Hodie, Fred Rogers took children on a Trolley Ride to the Neighborhood of Make Believe. Roger’s style was soft and approachable, which made him beloved by his pre-school audience. I have watched "Mr. Roger’s Neighborhood with my oldest daughter and now my little one. The show is part of our morning routine. As a parent, I’ve always been grateful for Fred Roger’s devotion to the children of the world. Mr. Rogers won 4 Emmy Awards and a Peabody Award for his show. Rest in peace Mr. Rogers. Thanks for caring about our children.

HANK BALLARD Died Mar. 2, 2003

Rock and Roll songwriter and performer Hank Ballard died of throat cancer at age 75. The leader of Hank Ballard and the Midnighters charted with 22 songs during his lengthy career. Ballard wrote "The Twist" which kicked off a worldwide dance craze in the early 1960s. Chubby Checker’s cover of Ballard’s tune became the best known version of the song. Ballard appeared in Roy Mann’s 1992 documentary film "The Twist." Mr. Ballard was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.

FRED FREIBERGER Died Mar. 2, 2003

Writer/producer Fred Freiberger died at age 88. Mr. Freiberger wrote the script for Ray Harryhausen’s first solo feature "The Beast From 20,000 Fathoms." "Beast" was adapted from a short story by Ray Bradbury first published in the Saturday Evening Post. One of Mr. Freiberger’s less successful 50s sci-fi scripts was for Bert I. Gordon’s horrendous "The Beginning of the End." Gordon’s film achieved cult status due to the terrible special effects, which include grasshoppers photographed on 8x10 photos of sky scrappers in Chicago. Mr. Freiberger wrote scripts for many of the most popular TV series of the 1960s, 60s and 70s including "Bonanza," "Rawhide," "The Wild, Wild West," "Ben Casey," "The Fugitive," "Starsky and Hutch" and "Space 1999." Mr. Freiberger turned to producing in the 1960s. His credits include the original "Star Trek" series, "Ben Casey" and "The Six Million Dollar Man." Regular EI reader Ty from Texas wrote with this bit of trivia: Speaking of "Star Trek," such was his talent for creating techno-props for series that the gizmos became known as "Freibergers."

HORST BUCHHOLZ Died Mar. 3, 2003

According to the Berliner Morgenpost, actor Horst Buchholz died at age 69 from complications from a broken thigh bone. Actor Buchholz was one of the original "The Magnificent Seven." Only Charles Bronson and Robert Vaughn remain of the original seven. Mr. Buchholz made 75 films during his lengthy career. I first remember seeing him as Naturam Godse, the man who killed Ghandi in "Nine Hours to Rama." Mr. Buchholz made 15 films in Europe before his international breakthrough role in "The Magnificent Seven." He followed this with a number of American made films, though he continued to work predominately in Germany and Europe. Other credits include Billy Wilder’s so-so "One, Two, Three" with Jimmy Cagney, the awful "Avalanche Express" and Roberto Benigni's "Life is Beautiful." Mr. Buchholz delivered an outstanding performance as one of the main terrorists in the true-life, made for TV film "Raid on Entebbe."

ADAM FAITH Died Mar. 8, 2003

British 60s pop star and actor died at age 60 of a heart attack. Mr. Faith enjoyed great popularity in England during the early 1960s with 20 songs hitting the British charts. Mr. Faith made the transition to acting. He appeared in one of the best Rock and Roll movies ever made. Mr. Faith co-starred with fellow British rocker David Essex in Michael Apted’s wonderful "Stardust." "Stardust" is the excellent sequel to the equally outstanding "That’ll Be the Day." The two films chronicle the rise and fall of David Essex’s band "The Stray Cats." Mr. Faith played the band’s manager in "Stardust." I can’t recommend these two films more highly. They are probably two of the best films you’ve never seen. Mr. Faith turned in an excellent performance as the manager who couldn’t help his star from self-destructing. 1980 was another great year for Adam Faith’s film career. He appeared in Adrian Lyne's excellent coming-of-age story "Foxes" starring Jodie Foster, Cherie Currie of "The Runaways." He also co-starred in Roger Daltry’s powerful modern gangster movie "McVicar." Mr. Faith was a natural actor who was sorely underused in the movies.

LYNN THIGPEN Died Mar. 12, 2003

Tony award winning actress Lynn Thigpen died suddenly at age 54. The coroner stated that Ms. Thigpen died of an enlarged heart, cardio hemmorrhage and cerebral hemorrhage. Ms. Thigpen may be best known for her role in the children’s geography TV show "Where in the World is Carmen Sandiego?" She was currently was co-starring in the TV series "The District" with Craig T. Nelson on CBS. Ms. Thigpen won a Tony Award for her performance in the play "An American Daughter." Ms. Thigpen plays the judge in the soon to be released Adam Sandler/Jack Nicholson comedy "Anger Management." Ms. Thigpen appeared in nearly 50 films and TV series during her career. She made her debut in the rock version of the Gospel According to Matthew "Godspell." Walter Hill fans know her as the female D-Jay in "The Warriors" and from "Streets of Fire." She also appeared in Sidney Pollack’s "Tootsie," "Bob Roberts," "Sweet Liberty," "The Paper," "Naked in New York," "The Insider," the remake of "Shaft," "Novocaine" and the TV version of "An American Daughter." Ms. Thigpen had recurring roles on "L.A. Law," "Gimmie a Break," "thirtysomething" and "Law and Order." Ms. Thigpen was also nominated twice for the Image Award for her work on "All My Children" and "Where in the World is Carmen Sandiego?"

THORA HIRD Died Mar. 15, 2003

British actress Dame Thora Hird died at age 91 after suffering a stroke. Better known in England than America, Ms. Hird appeared in over 90 films and TV shows during her career. She was awarded four BAFTA (the British Oscar) awards for her work including a lifetime achievement award. Ms. Hird appeared in several of my favorites. Michael Winner’s "The Nightcomers" is a kinky mess starring Marlon Brando. The film is a prequel to Henry James classic novel "The Turn of the Screw." "The Turn of the Screw" was filmed as "The Innocents" with Deborah Kerr. Brando gives one of his most bizarre performances in a film full of strange happenings. "The Quatermass Experiment" was the first of the great British sci-fi movies about Professor Bernard Quatermass. Brian Donlevy played Quatermass in this classic British film. Ms. Hird was third billed in the Val Guest film. Ms. Hird had a smaller role in the seldom seen "The Magic Box." "The Magic Box" is another great British film. The movie tells the story of the forgotten inventor of motion pictures. Its not who you think. Ms. Hird also appeared in Tony Richardson’s "The Entertainer" with Laurence Olivier and John Schlesinger’s "A Kind of Loving" with Alan Bates.

DON HOOD Died Mar. 20, 2003

Verteran character actor Don Hood died of heart failure at age 62. Hood is probably best known for his supporting role in Sidney Lumet’s "Absence of Malace." Hood played the politically ambitious District Attorney torpedoed by a vengeful Paul Newman. Hood also played corrupt Tennessee governor Ray Blanton in the true-life drama "Marie" which starred Sissy Spacek. Mr. Hood also appeared in "Alien Nation," "Fletch Lives," "The River," "Ed Wood," "Cat People" and "Bad Girls." Hood also appeared in the excellent HBO film "Doublecrossed" with Dennis Hopper. Mr. Hood’s other credits include Brian De Palma’s "Obesssion" and Louis Malle’s "Pretty Baby."

MICHAEL JETER Died Mar. 30, 2003

Before I go to work to deal with the constitutional rights of every kind of accused criminal you can imagine, I get my five–year-old daughter ready for preschool. It’s just her and me. A little respite before the storm called the real world. Part of our daily routine is watching "Sesame Street" together. Lauren’s favorite segment, hands down is Elmo’s daily visit with Mr. Noodle or Mr. Noodle’s brother Mr. Noodle. Lauren and I both prefer Mr. Noodle’s bother Mr. Noodle to the plane old Mr. Noodle. For the second time in as many months, a children’s television icon has passed on. Michael Jeter’s contribution of Mr. Noodle’s brother Mr. Noodle to "Sesame Street" was but a small part of his outstanding career as an actor on stage, film and TV.

Jeter turned from medicine to acting while a student at my alma mater, Memphis State University. I first noticed Jeter in his film debut in Milos Forman’s "Hair." He had a hilarious cameo as a draftee with a penchant for painted toenails. Jeter appears at the beginning of the song "White Boys." He stands naked before the Army induction NCOs except for his socks. When he refuses to take the socks off, a large soldier lifts Jeter in the air while another removes the socks, revealing his painted toenails. Then the song begins.

Jeter appeared in nearly 50 films. Although he was Gay, Jeter played both Gay and straight roles with ease. The 50-year-old actor announced that he was HIV positive several years ago. An autopsy is scheduled, but it has been reported that Mr. Jeter was in good health and his death wasn’t related to his HIV status.

Michael Jeter won an Emmy Award as Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Comedy Series for his work on the Burt Reynold’s series "Evening Shade." Mr. Jeter was also nominated for three other Emmy Awards. He also won a Tony Award for his role in the play "Grand Hotel." Mr. Jeter won three "Q Awards" for his work on "Evening Shade" from the "Viewers for Quality Television Awards." Nice to see a Gay guy recognized for being wholesome by a watchdog group!

Jeter turned in one of his best performances as the condemned prisoner with a pet mouse in Frank Darabont’s "The Green Mile." Jeter’s execution scene is one of the most harrowing scenes ever committed to celluloid. Other credits include the hilarious "Mouse Hunt," the Coen Brother’s gangster homage "Miller’s Crossing," Milos Forman’s "Ragtime," Woody Allen’s "Zelig," Terry Gilliam’s "The Fisher King," Clint Eastwood’s "True Crime" and "Jurassic Park III." Jeter was an actor of versatility and range. He will be sorely missed by legions of fans.

ANNE GWYNNE Died Mar. 31, 2003

Scream queen Anne Gwynne died at age 84 of a stroke following surgery. The raven-haired beauty is remembered fondly by horror movie fans for her many appearances in the Universal horror films of the 1940s. Ms. Gwynne co-starred with Boris Karloff in "The House of Frankenstein," Bela Lugosi in the remake of "The Black Cat," Lon Chaney Jr. in "Weird Woman" and "The Strange Case of Dr. RX." Ms. Gwynne co-starred with Abbott and Costello in the comedy "Ride ‘Em Cowboy." Ms. Gwynne’s final film was also one of Michael Douglas’s first starring vehicles: "Adam at 6 A.M."

EDWIN STARR Died Apr. 2, 2003

Motown recording artist Edwin Starr died at age 61 of an apparent heart attack. I remember spending the summer of 1970 singing along with the radio every time his best known song "War" came over the airwaves. Edwin Starr’s song became an anthem of the anti-war movement during the Vietnam era. Starr appeared in the British surfing movie (now there’s a concept) "Blue Juice" with Catherine Zeta-Jones and Ewan McGregor. He also appeared as himself in the made for TV documentary "We Are Family." Starr’s song "War" was featured prominently on the soundtrack of the Jackie Chan/Chris Tucker vehicle "Rush Hour." Starr was featured on the soundtrack for Larry Cohen's Blaxploitation film "Hell Up In Harlem" with Fred Williamson. Starr was also a regular on British TV appearing on "Later with Jools Holland" and "GMTV."

ANTHONY CARUSO Died Apr. 4, 2003

Veteran character actor Anthony Caruso died at age 86. Mr. Caruso appeared in nearly 120 films and nealy 110 guest roles on various TV series during his 50 year career. Mr. Caruso was type cast as the heavy in many films. It didn’t matter if the movie was set in Chicago of the 1920s or the Old West, Mr. Caruso was perfect as the villain. Among Mr. Caruso’s many credits are the films "Zebra Force," "Never a Dull Moment," "Young Dillinger" with Nick Adams, "Never Steal Anything Small" with Jimmy Cagney, "Baby Face Nelson," John Huston’s classic Noir "The Asphalt Jungle" and one of my all time favorite WWII films "Objective, Burma!" with Errol Flynn. Among Mr. Caruso’s many TV guest appearances are "Baretta," "Police Story," "Gunsmoke," ‘The Streets of San Francisco," "Star Trek," "The Wild, Wild West" and "Perry Mason."

SYDNEY LASSICK Died Apr. 12, 2003

Veteran character actor Sidney Lassick’s died at age 80 after a long battle with diabetes and related health problems. Mr. Lassick is best known for his performance as Cheswick in "One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest." Another memorable role was as Mr. Fromm, the high school English teacher in Brian De Palma’s classic horror film "Carrie." Mr. Lassick appeared in over 100 films and over 200 TV shows during his 44-year career. His first two movie appearances were in the gangster films "The Bonnie Parker Story" with Dorothy Provine and "Al Capone" with Rod Steiger. Mr. Lassick’s career was confined mainly to the stage until the role of Charlie Cheswick came along. Lassick’s touching performance as the kind hearted Cheswick made the powers that be take notice. He never looked back. Mr. Lassick appeared uncredited in Steven Speilberg’s "1941." Other credits include Mel Brook’s "The History of the World: Part I," the John Sayles’s scripted "Alligator," "The Unseen," the great B-movie "Fast Walking" with James Woods and Tim McIntire, "Deep Cover" with Laurence Fishburne, "Sister Act 2" and Milos Forman’s "Man On the Moon" with Jim Carrey. Mr. Lassick served in the Navy during WWII.

GRAHAM P. JARVIS Died Apr. 16, 2003

Veteran character actor Graham Jarvis died of multiple myeloma at age 72. The generation of the 1970s will remember Mr. Jarvis for his role in the cutting edge sit-com "Mary Hartman, Mary Hartman." My how times have changed. My hometown of Memphis was a hotbed of censorship in the 1970s. "American Grafitti" was Rated R in Memphis. "Mary Hartman, Mary Hartman" was considered so subversive that it was aired at mid-night! I’d forgotten about all that until strange time until I read about Mr. Jarvis’s death.

Mr. Jarvis turned in some very funny cameos and major performances during the 70s. He played the helpful New Yorker who ends up robbing Jack Lemmon and Sandy Dennis in Neil Simon’s "The Out of Towners." Jarvis’s second movie was the anti-war classic "Alice’s Restaurant." Other credits include "RPM," "A New Leaf," the hilarious "Cold Turkey," the Watergate mini-series "Blind Ambition" in which he played John Ehrlichman, "Silkwood," "Deal of the Century" and "Tough Guys."

In addition to his work on "Mary Hartman, Mary Hartman," Mr. Jarvis appeared in recurring roles on such TV series as "7^th Heaven," "Six Feet Under," "Fame" and "Forever Fernwood."

NINA SIMONE Died Apr. 21, 2003

American born singer Nina Simone died at age 70 in her adopted home of France. Ms. Simone sang a wide range of musical genres. Her best work focused on love, heartbreak and social causes. Ms. Simone appeared as herself in the documentary "Brel" about composer Jacques Brel. Her music was featured in numerous films. The American remake of "La Femme Nikita," "Point of No Return" not only featured her music but her spirit as well. The lost killer played by Bridget Fonda often discusses Nina Simone’s views of men, love and sex during the film. Ms. Simone’s credits as singer and composer on film also include Sean Penn’s "The Crossing Guard," "Four Women," "Shallow Grave," "Stealing Beauty" and "The Thomas Crown Affair."

PETER STONE Died Apr. 26, 2003

Peter Stone became the first writer to win the Oscar, Tony and Emmy! Mr. Stone died of pulmonary fibrosis at age 73. Mr. Stone sometimes wrote under the pseudonym Peter Joshua, which happened to be the name of Cary Grant’s character in the great film "Charade" also written by Mr. Stone. Stone won the Oscar for Best Screenplay for his WWII comedy "Father Goose" also starring Cary Grant. Mr. Stone wrote one of my favorite films of the 70s: "The Taking of Pelham One Two Three" with Walter Mathau and Robert Shaw. His other screen credits include "Sweet Charity" with Shirley MacLaine, the hilarious "Skin Game" with James Garner and Louis Gossit Jr., the underrated "Silver Bears" with Michael Caine and Cybil Shepard, "Arabesque" with Gregory Peck and Sophia Loren and the all-star comedy thriller "Who is Killing the Great Chefs of Europe?" Mr. Stone won an Emmy for his work on the TV series "The Defenders." Mr. Stone won three Tony awards for the musicals "1776," "Titanic" and "Woman of the Year." "1776" was later turned into a film.

Noel Redding on left, with Jimi Hendrix and Mitch Mitchell

NOEL REDDING Died May 11, 2003

Irish rocker Noel Redding died of undisclosed causes at age 57. Mr. Redding was the bass player for "The Jimi Hendrix Experience" from 1966 through 1969. Redding can be seen in the great documentary film "Monterey Pop," which marked the American debut of the reinvented Jimi Hendrix. The climax of the set features Jimi burning his guitar during the song "Wild Thing." Noel Redding played on all three "Jimi Hendrix Experience" albums. Prior to joining the "Experience," Mr. Redding played with his band "Fat Mattress." "Fat Mattress" made an appearance on the British TV show "Beat Club," as did "The Jimi Hendrix Experience." Mr. Redding was involved in a protracted legal suite to recover royalties he claimed were never paid from his years with "The Jimi Hendrix Experience." Mr. Redding was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1992. Mr. Redding appeared as himself in the documentary "Plaster Caster" about groupie/artist Cynthia Plaster Caster, who made plaster casts of the genitalia of many famous Rock and Roll stars of the 60s and 70s. Mr. Redding also appeared in the documentary "Robert Wyatt: Little Red Riding Hood," about Robert Wyatt of "Soft Machine." Mr. Redding’s mother passed away shortly before her son. Thanks for the great music. Prayers of comfort for his family and friends.

ROBERT STACK Died May 14, 2003

Oscar nominated, Emmy winning actor Robert Stack died of heart failure at age 84. My love of gangster movies and history came about in part from growing up watching the weekly adventures of Elliot Ness and his Untouchables in the classic 1950s TV series "The Untouchables." Robert Stack’s no-nonsense approach to the role was both heroic and simple. Robert Stack appeared in a number of my favorite childhood TV series. In addition to "The Untouchables," Stack co-starred in the very cool TV series "The Name of the Game." Robert Stack, Gene Barry and Anthony Franciosa starred in the series, which was really three TV series in one. Stack played a retired FBI agent working for a rich publisher played by Gene Barry. Stack’s episodes dealt with his character’s battle with organized crime.

Robert Stack made his film debut in 1939 in "First Love." Stack co-starred with Universal teen star Deanna Durbin. He planted Ms. Durbin’s first screen kiss on her. Stack re-teamed with Ms. Durbin two years later in "Nice Girl?" Stack made four more films before enlisting in the Navy to serve his country in WWII. Mr. Stack made 19 more films after WWII before landing the role for which he is best identified. Among his pre-Eliot Ness credits are the films "Bwana Devil" which told the same story as Michael Douglas’s "Ghosts in the Darkness," "The High and the Mighty" with John Wayne and Douglas Sirk’s "Written on the Wind," for which Mr. Stack received a Best Supporting Oscar nomination.

While Robert Stack continued to make feature films after "The Untouchables," he became more and more recognized as a TV actor at this point. I remember watching Mr. Stack in ABC TV’s version of the great mystery "Laura." ABC promoted the heck out of the fact the film co-starred Lee Radziwill, the sister of former First Lady Jackie Kennedy. Mr. Stack co-starred in "Airplane," which was inspired by his earlier film "The High and the Mighty." Stephen Speilberg’s WWII comedy "1941" was universally reviled. One thing the critics agreed on was that Robert Stack was great as the "Dumbo" obsessed General Joe Stilwell.

Many younger people know Robert Stack as the host of "Unsolved Mysteries." Robert Stack was perfect as the host. He brought the same honest, straightforward quality to that show that he brought to every performance. Robert Stack wasn’t the greatest actor who ever lived, but he always brought a high degree of professional quality to his work. Whether playing an iconic hero, romantic lead, whiny rich kid, or slightly addled military man, Robert Stack gave his all. No film failed because of Mr. Stack’s performance. He was a professional and an entertainer. Prayers of comfort for his family and friends.

DAME WENDY HILLER Died May 14, 2003

Oscar-winning British actress Dame Wendy Hiller died at age 90. I first noticed Dame Hiller in the Agatha Christie classic "Murder on the Orient Express." Wendy Hiller shone among a stellar cast that included Six Oscar Winners and Five Oscar Nominees! Wendy Hiller creeped me out in "Murder on the Orient Express." She played grand Princess Dragomirof, the aged matriarch of the family haunted by the kidnapping and murder of her young grandson. Her make-up was unforgettable. The way she brought it to life was even more remarkable. Miss Hiller turned in one her most touching performances as the sympathetic but stern head nurse in David Lynch’s "The Elephant Man."

Wendy Hiller won her Best Supporting Actress Oscar for the 1958 film "Separate Tables," co-starring David Niven and Burt Lancaster. Miss Hiller was nominated twice more for Best Supporting Actress Oscars in the films "A Man for All Seasons" (1966) and George Bernard Shaw’s "Pygmalion" (1938).

Other film credits include "Major Barbara," "Sons and Lovers," "Toys in the Attic" and "Voyage of the Damned." Wendy Hiller also had a remarkable career on various London stages. Miss Hiller married Robert Gow in 1937. They remained married until his death in 1993!

JUNE CARTER CASH Died May 15, 2003

Emmy-winning singer/songwriter June Carter Cash died at age 73 of complications following heart surgery. Johnny Cash, her husband of 35 years was at her side. Prayers for Mr. Cash that the comfort and stability his fine wife brought into his life remains with him during this difficult time.

I have to say that I am a Rocker. I grew up in the South, but I never acquired a taste for Country music. Johnny Cash was the one exception. Once every year or so, I go through a phase where I spend a couple of weeks listening to "Johnny Cash: Live at Folsom Prison." I’ve been driving my teenage kids crazy for the last two weeks. One of the highlights of the CD is the duet "Jackson" by Johnny and June Carter Cash. Mrs. Cash snarls like some feral banshee as she taunts her man to step out on her. The recording has a raw power that is rarely found on Live Albums, much less studio recordings. My five-year-old likes the CD. Today we drove home from daycare. Lauren sang along with "25 Minutes to Go." She is too young to realize that the novelty song is about a condemned man singing down to his own hanging. The song ended and I switched the CD player off and turned on "Drake and Zeke" at Rock 103. They announced that Mrs. Cash had died today. That was a creepy feeling.

Mrs. Cash occasionally acted in films. She and her husband produced the Christian film "Gospel Road" and Mrs. Cash played Mary Magdalene in the film. During the 1950s, Mrs. Cash, then June Carter appeared on two soap operas: "The Edge of Night" and "The Secret Storm." She co-starred with her husband in the true-crime TV movie "Murder in Coweta County." She played Robert Duvall’s mother in his Oscar nominated film "The Apostle." The Cash’s were frequent performers at the various crusades of Billy Graham.

JULES LEVY Died May 24, 2003

Veteran producer Jules Levy died at age 80. One of the first credits I ever remember seeing as a small child was Jules Levy (along with partner’s Arthur Gardner and Arnold Laven) at the beginning of "The Rifleman" with Chuck Conners. Levy produced Sam Peckinpah’s series during its five year run. Levy also produced the popular Western series "The Big Valley." Mr. Levy produced over 39 movies and TV series. His film credits include a pair of under-rated but very good 1950s horror films: "The Vampire" and "The Return of Dracula." Other credits include "The Flame Barrier," "Clamback" with Elvis, "White Lightning" "Gator" and "Sam Whiskey" with Burt Reynolds. "White Lightning" is one of the best redneck B-movies ever made. Gene Hackman and Oliver Reed starred in Levy’s kinky, bloody Western "The Hunting Party." Mr. Levy also produced John Wayne’s two attempts to move in on Clint Eastwood’s "Dirty Harry" territory: "McQ" and "Brannigan."

RICHARD CUSACK Died June 2, 2003

Actor/writer Richard Cusack has died of pancreatic cancer at age 77. Mr. Cusack was the father of actors John, Joan, Anne, Susie and Bill Cusack. In 2000, the Chicago Film Critic’s Association awarded Mr. Cusack and his family the Commitment to Chicago Award. Mr. Cusack’s film credits include "My Bodyguard" with daughter Joan Cusack, John Sayles’ "Eight Men Out" in which son John played Chicago White Sox player Buck Weaver, "The Fugitive," "High Fidelity" also with son John and "The Jack Bull." Mr. Cusack also wrote the script for "The Jack Bull." Prayers of comfort to Mr. Cusack’s family and friends. Thanks for providing entertainment to so many through your work and your family.

DAVID BRINKLEY Died June 11, 2003

Veteran NBC newsman and author David Brinkley died at age 82. Mr. Brinkley was one of the elder statesmen of TV journalism. He was the news anchor at NBC from 1956 through 1971. He returned to that post for three more years in 1976. Mr. Brinkley was co-host of "The Huntley-Brinkley Report." When his co-anchor Chet Huntley retired, NBC renamed the program to "The NBC Nightly News" with Mr. Brinkley as the sole news anchor. Mr. Brinkley appeared as himself in several films and documentaries including Oliver Stone’s "Nixon," "Powaqqatsi," "4 Little Girls" and "Dear America: Letters Home From Vietnam."

WILLIAM MARCHALL Died June 11, 2003

Actor William Marshall died of complications from Alzheimer’s Disease at age 78. Though Mr. Marshall was a classically trained actor who performed Shakespeare, he is best known for his performance in the Blaxploitation film "Blacula." Mr. Marshall played the African prince Manuwalde who was bitten by Count Dracula and turned into a vampire. Mr. Marshall leant an air of dignity and sophistication to the low-budget film. Marshall elevated the movie above the original script. A sequel "Scream, Blacula, Scream" followed with less success. Mr. Marshall also starred "Abby," in the Blaxploitation version of "The Exorcist." Marshall played the Bishop who performs the exorcism. Even Mr. Marshall great talent could not save this poorly made rip-off.

Mr. Marshall appeared in over 30 films during his 40-year career. His film credits include "The Boston Strangler" with Tony Curtis, "Skullduggery" with Burt Reynolds, the very entertaining thriller "Zigzag" with George Kennedy and an all-star cast, John Landis’s "Amazon Women on the Moon," Terry Gilliam’s "The Fisher King" and "Maverick" with Mel Gibson and Jodie Foster. Mr. Marshall played The King of Cartoons on the Saturday morning TV series "PeeWee’s Playhouse."

Mr. Marshall was known for his portrayal of Shakespeare’s "Othello," which he performed on Broadway and in Europe. He filmed a version for TV with Jenny Agutter in 1981. Mr. Marshall also portrayed Paul Robeson and Frederick Douglas on stage.

GREGORY PECK Died June 12, 2003

Oscar winning actor Gregory Peck has died at age 87. Mr. Peck appeared in nearly 120 films, documentaries and TV shows and specials during his lengthy career. Like many others, I am saddened by Mr. Peck’s passing as his movies touched me on a deeply personal level. I am an attorney today in part because of the effect Mr. Peck’s performance as Atticus Finch in "To Kill a Mockingbird" had on me when I was 10-years old. Gregory Peck was voted as the all time screen hero last week by the AFI for his role in that classic film. He also won the Best Actor Oscar for his portrayal of the Southern lawyer fighting racism in depression-era Alabama.

Mr. Peck starred in many classic American films. He worked with many of the finest directors alive or dead. My first exposure to Gregory Peck was in the WWII classic "Twelve O’Clock High." Peck played tough-as-nails Army/Air Corp General Frank Savage in Henry King’s psychological war drama. Mr. Peck received his fourth Best Actor nomination for his work in "Twelve O’Clock High." Pretty amazing when you consider "Twelve O’Clock High" was made in 1949 and Mr. Peck made his screen debut just five years earlier.

Mr. Peck’s first Oscar nomination came in 1946 for his second film "The Keys to the Kingdom" which dealt with the story of a Catholic missionary in China. Peck was nominated the next year for his work in the classic family film "The Yearling." Another nomination followed the next year for his role in "Gentleman’s Agreement." In addition to his Oscar as Best Actor in "To Kill a Mockingbird," Mr. Peck was awarded the Jean Hersholt Humanitarian Award by the Academy in 1968.

Mr. Peck worked with master of suspense Alfred Hitchcock in the superior psychological thriller "Spellbound" with Ingrid Bergman and Leo G. Carroll and the lame divorce drama "The Paradine Case." "Spellbound" was also famous for the surreal nightmare sequence designed by Salvador Dali.

In 1946, Mr. Peck starred in David O. Selznick’s Western epic "Duel in the Sun." The film was hammered by critics and given the nickname "Lust in the Dust." I still like the film. Mr. Peck turns in a great performance as the unsympathetic Lewt McCanles. Peck’s McCanles is on of the first anti-heroes in the history of cinema. Paul Newman would make his career playing such characters during the 1960s.

One of my all-time favorite Westerns in Peck’s "The Gunfighter." One of the most underrated films of the 1950s, "The Gunfighter" tells the story of a man with a past who comes home to try and start over. Or course, some folks never forget a man’s past. Richard Jaeckel has a great cameo as the young hothead who forces Peck to pick up his guns.

Mr. Peck’s credits from the 1950s include some great films and some not so great films. Among his credits from the era are "Roman Holiday" with Audrey Hepburn, John Huston’s "Moby Dick," Stanley Kramer’s WWIII thriller "On the Beach," "Captain Horatio Hornblower" with a young Christopher Lee and the Korean War classic "Pork Chop Hill."

The 1960s started out great for Mr. Peck. He starred in one of the biggest hits of the decade "The Guns of Navarone" with David Niven and Anthony Quinn. He followed this film with the classic suspense thriller "Cape Fear." I don’t care what you say; the original Gregory Peck/Robert Mitchum version of "Cape Fear" is far superior to Martin Scorsese’s remake. Peck did make a cameo in the remake! Next came the epic Cinerama "How the West Was Won." Peck played a shifty riverboat gambler in the all-star epic. Robert Mulligan’s "To Kill a Mockingbird" came next.

Mr. Peck’s output during the 1960s slowed down after "To Kill a Mockingbird." He appeared in a number of films, but they paled when compared to his earlier work. I wanted to see "MacKenna’s Gold" when I was a kid due to the Playboy pictorial of Julie Newmar shot on location. I was disappointed to find that she remained with her clothes on in the movie. I was a typical kid in the 1960s in that I was fascinated by the space race. Gregory Peck starred as the head of NASA in the space rescue movie "Marooned" which also starred Gene Hackman, Richard Crenna, David Jansen and James Franciscus. I probably like the film more than your average viewer does.

Peck followed "Marooned" with another favorite of mine "I Walk the Line." In "I Walk the Line," Peck played a married sheriff who lets the little head do the thinking for the big one. A moonshiner encourages Peck to hook up with his daughter played by the incredibly sexy Tuesday Weld so that the good sheriff won’t bust his still. Again, I probably like the film more than the average viewer does. I think this has to do with a lifelong fantasy involving Ms. Weld.

Mr. Peck enjoyed a resurgence in the mid 1970s with the horror classic "The Omen." Peck followed this with the WWII biography "MacArthur." Peck turned in a memorably hammy performance as Dr. Josef Mengele in the black comedy "The Boys From Brazil" with co-star Laurence Olivier. Mr. Peck’s last performance of note was in Luis Puenzo’s 1989 film "The Old Gringo." The film is a ‘what if’ fantasy about the last mysterious days of writer Ambrose Bierce who disappeared in Mexico.

Mr. Peck was the President of the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences from 1967 through 1970. He received AFI’s Lifetime Achievement Award in 1989.

Prayers of comfort for his family and friends.

CLICK HERE to read Jon Ted Wynne's encounter with the late Gregory Peck.

Hume Cronyn and Jessica Tandy

HUME CRONYN Died June 15, 2003

Oscar nominated actor Hume Cronyn has died at age 91 of cancer. Mr. Cronyn was the widower of actress Jessica Tandy. He and Miss Tandy were married for 52 years at the time of her death in 1994. Mr. Cronyn married screenwriter Susan Cooper in 1997. Ms. Cooper had been a collaborator of Mr. Cronyn and Ms. Tandy on several TV movies during the 1980s. Mr. Cronyn’s film career spanned nearly 60 years. In addition to starring in nearly 60 films, Mr. Cronyn also wrote several movies including Alfred Hitchcock’s experimental film "Rope," which starred Jimmy Stewart.

Mr. Cronyn was nominated for a Best Supporting Actor Oscar for the 1943 film "The Seventh Cross." Mr. Cronyn was nominated for several Emmy awards, winning three times for the TV films "To Dance with the White Dog," ""Broadway Bound" and "Age-Old Friends." He also was nominated for a Screen Actor’s Guild award for "Marvin’s Room." Mr. Cronyn shared a Humanitas Award with Ms. Cooper for the TV film "The Dollmaker."

Mr. Cronyn delivered memorable supporting performances in several of my favorite films. Mr. Cronyn made his film debut playing the true-crime obsessed Herbie Hawkins in Hitchcock’s classic (and first shot-on-location film) "Shadow of a Doubt" starring Joseph Cotton. Cronyn’s third film is an overlooked WWII classic called "Cross of Lorraine." The film deals with the French underground movement and features a rare dramatic performance by hoofer Gene Kelly. Cronyn’s next film was his second Hitchcock film: "Lifeboat." Another personal favorite is the Film Noir classic "The Postman Always Rings Twice" with John Garfield and Lana Turner. Cronyn played one of the shifty lawyers.

Cronyn played Warren Beatty’s crusty boss in Alan J. Pakula’s assassination thriller "The Parallax View." Cronyn followed that film with the first Pat Conroy film, "Conrack" starring Jon Voight. Mr. Cronyn turned in a very funny cameo as Glenn Close’s father in "The World According to Garp." The scene in which Close and Jenny Fields explains to Cronyn and wife Jessica Tandy how she conceived her son is a riot.

Among Mr. Cronyn’s other film credits are the Elizabeth Taylor/Richard Burton version of "Cleopatra," Ron Howard’s "Cocoon," "The Pelican Brief," "* batteries not included" and the Claude Rains version of "Phantom of the Opera."

PHILIP STONE Died June 15, 2003

British character actor Philip Stone died at age 79. Mr. Stone appeared in a number of famous films. He is probably best known for his collaborations with Stanley Kubrick. Stone played the milquetoast father of Malcolm McDowell’s Alex in "A Clockwork Orange." Stone played a more forceful (at least off screen) character in Kubrick’s "The Shining." Stone played Delbert Grady, the former caretaker with peculiar ideas on ‘correcting’ his children. Mr. Stone also appeared in Kubrick’s period film "Barry Lyndon."

Stone appeared as a SPECTRE agent in the James Bond film "Thunderball." He could be seen operating the cable car in the Richard Burton/Clint Eastwood thriller "Where Eagles Dare." In 1973, Mr. Stone worked with Malcolm McDowell again in Lindsey Anderson’s "O Lucky Man!" Other memorable roles include Stuart Rosenberg’s "Voyage of the Damned" about a group of Jews trying to escape Germany before WWII, "Hitler: The Last Ten Days" with Alec Guinness, "Flash Gordon" and "Indian Jones and the Temple of Doom."

FIELDER COOK Died June 20, 2003

Award winning director Fielder Cook died of a stroke at age 80. Mr. Cook won two Emmy Awards and was nominated for another five! Mr. Fielder also won a DGA award for Best Direction in Television for the TV movie "Teacher, Teacher." Mr. Fielder began his career in the late 40s directing live television. Among Mr. Fielder’s TV and film credits are "The Homecoming" which was the pilot film for the popular TV series "The Waltons." Other credits include the hilarious poker movie "Big Hand for the Little Lady" starring Henry Fonda and Joanne Woodward, "Prudence and the Pill," "Judge Horton and the Scottsboro Boys" about one of the great miscarriages of justice in our nation’s history, "A Member of the Wedding" and "Seize the Day" for which Mr. Cook was nominated for the Grand Jury Prize at Sundance.

GEORGE AXELROD Died June 21, 2003

Oscar nominated writer George Axelrod died of heart failure at age 81. George Axelrod wrote smart. He wrote funny. Mr. Axelrod was responsible for several of the best scripts ever filmed. I challenge you to find a funnier script that "Lord Love a Duck." Mr. Axelrod’s twist on life was very unique. Watch his films and consciously look for his subversive humor. Even his classic adaptation of Richard Condon’s political thriller "The Manchurian Candidate" is filled with hilarious wordplay. Axelrod also co-produced the political thriller.

George Axelrod received an Oscar nomination for his screenplay "Breakfast at Tiffanys." Axelrod’s credits include "Phffft!" which starred Judy Holiday, Jack Lemmon and Kim Novak. Axelrod wrote the play "The Seven Year Itch" which was turned into a hit film by Billy Wilder starring Marilyn Monroe. Axelrod’s adaptation of William Inge’s "Bus Stop" became another hit for Miss Monroe. Frank Tashin adapted Axelrod’s play "Will Success Spoil Rock Hunter?" for the screen. Axelrod disowned the movie. The movie starred Tony Randall and Jayne Mansfield.

Mr. Randall also appeared, with a very hot Tuesday Weld in Axelrod’s "Lord Love a Duck." If you have not taken the time to find and watch "Lord Love a Duck," by all means do so. Mr. Axelrod’s genius will become very apparent to you after watching the movie. "Lord Love a Duck" also marked Mr. Axelrod’s directorial debut. Who better to interpret his words than the writer himself! Another very funny film written by Axelrod is "How to Murder Your Wife," which starred Jack Lemmon and Verna Lisi. It doesn’t rise to the level of his earlier work, but it is a nice diversion.

In addition to his Oscar nomination, Mr. Axelrod was nominated for three WGA Awards, winning for "Breakfast at Tiffanys." He was nominated for a Golden Bear Award at the Berlin International Film Festival for "Lord Love a Duck." Mr. Axelrod is the father of producer Jonathan Axelrod and B-Movie actress turned casting director Nina Axelrod (Motel Hell, Roller Boogie).

LEON URIS Died June 21, 2003

Leon Uris wrote his own epitaph before he died: American Soldier, Jewish Writer. Mr. Uris died at age 78. Mr. Uris saw all of the horrors of war as a combat soldier in the Pacific Theater of Operation in WWII. He wrote a number of best selling novels, which brought all the elements of war to vivid life on the page. A number of Mr. Uris’s books were translated into movies.

I remember watching the TV mini series "QBVII" when it first aired in 1974. I was aware of the holocaust before that. I had always been a hungry reader with a bent toward history. It wasn’t until the end of the first episode, when Ben Gazzara’s character sees the real film footage of the horrors of Auschwitz, that I too saw this for the first time. I could completely understand the horror on Mr. Gazzara’s character’s face as he viewed the footage. After this amazing mini-series, I went out and got Mr. Uris’s book from the library. Mr. Uris wrote a book about Holocaust survivors called "Mila 18." In that book, he named a doctor as a person who had committed atrocities at Auschwitz. The doctor sued for libel. Mr. Uris used this real-life experience as the basis for "QBVII." Ben Gazzara played the author. Anthony Hopkins the Doctor suing for libel and an all-star cast. Jack Hawkins being a standout as the presiding judge.

Mr. Uris wrote one screenplay, "Gunfight at the O.K. Corral." In addition to the TV version of his book "QBVII," many of his other books made it to the big screen. Alfred Hitchcock filmed "Topaz" with mixed results. Otto Preminger filmed Mr. Uris’s account of the birth of the modern state of Israel, "Exodus." Paul Newman led an all-star cast, again, with mixed results. Director Raoul Walsh had better luck with Uris’s tale of WWII Marines, "Battle Cry." This movie has the historical footnote of being one of the two films playing at the theater where Lee Harvey Oswald was arrested. "The Dirty Dozen" director Robert Aldrich directed Uris’s tale of Jewish soldiers from Palestine fighting with the British in Greece during WWII, "The Angry Hills" with Robert Mitchum.

MAYNARD JACKSON Died June 23, 2003

Former Atlanta mayor Maynard Jackson died of a heart attack at age 65. Mr. Jackson was the first Black mayor of a major southern city, having been elected mayor of Atlanta 30 years ago. Mr. Jackson appeared in the mini-series "King" which starred Paul Winfield as Martin Luther King Jr. Mr. Jackson also had a small part in the Richard Pryor film "Greased Lightning."

ALEX GORDON Died June 24, 2003

B-movie legend Alex Gordon died at age 80. Alex Gordon produced a number of films for American International Pictures including Roger Corman’s "The Day the World Ended," "The She-Creature" and "Voodoo Girl." Mr. Gordon collaborated with legendary bad-movie director Ed Wood on two occasions. Mr. Gordon wrote the scripts for "Jail Bait" and the Bela Lugosi vehicle "Bride of the Monster." Other credits include the Westerns "The Bounty Killer" with Dan Duryea and "Requiem for a Gunfighter" with Rod Cameron. Mr. Gordon also produced such low-budget cult films as "Dragstrip Girl," "The Atomic Submarine" and "Girls in Prison." Mr. Gordon was Gene Autry’s publicist in his later years. Mr. Gordon was a dear friend of Marty Baumann, of "The Astounding B Monster.Com." To read Mr. Baumann’s in depth profile and interview with Alex Gordon CLICK HERE and HERE.

DAVID NEWMAN Died June 26, 2003

Yet another prominent screenwriter has died this month. Oscar nominated writer David Newman died at age 66 after suffering a stroke. Mr. Newman was nominated, with his frequent writing partner Robert Benton for a Best Screenplay Oscar for "Bonnie and Clyde." "Bonnie and Clyde" was Mr. Newman’s first script. The groundbreaking film established Newman as a major Hollywood talent. In addition to Mr. Benton, David Newman also collaborated on scripts with his wife Leslie. Mr. Newman never wrote another script that lived up to the potential he showed with "Bonnie and Clyde." The closest he came was "Bad Company," an off-beat Western co-written with Benton. Robert Benton also directed the film. Other credits include the "Superman" film series which starred Christopher Reeve. Mr. Newman also scripted the hilarious Peter Bogdanovich homage to the slapstick comedies of the 1930s, "What’s Up Doc?"

KATHERINE HEPBURN Died June 29, 2003

The last of the great movie stars from the 1930s has died. Katherine Hepburn was nominated for twelve Oscars and won four times. Pretty amazing when you consider that Miss Hepburn only made 43 films. The New England bred actress died at age 96. Katherine Hepburn was an unlikely movie star. She didn’t possess the physical beauty of many of her contemporaries. What Miss Hepburn had was enormous talent backed up by intelligence and tenacity.

Miss Hepburn won her first Oscar as Best Actress for her third film, "Morning Glory." After a promising start in the movies, Hepburn was labeled as troublemaker. Seems she wanted to do things her own way. After a string of box-office flops, Miss Hepburn returned to the stage. Writer David Ogden Stewart wrote a play for Miss Hepburn called "The Philadelphia Story." The play was a hit and Miss Hepburn bought the rights. She negotiated a sale to Louie B. Mayer which guaranteed that she play the lead role. The 1941 film garnered Miss Hepburn her third Oscar nomination and put her back on the top of the Hollywood heap. Her next film would change her life.

George Steven’s "Woman of the Year" paired Miss Hepburn with actor Spencer Tracy. Their on-screen chemistry was a hit at the box-office. The couple went on to make a total of nine movies together. They also became lifelong lovers. Mr. Tracy was married and a Catholic. He refused to get a divorce. Hepburn and Tracy’s decades long affair did not hurt either career. Unlike the foreign born Ingrid Bergman, Katherine Hepburn did not pay a career price for her adultery. Miss Hepburn was an avowed atheist. I guess she knows one way or the other at this point in time.

My first memory of Miss Hepburn was from watching "Suddenly Last Summer" when I was six or seven. For some strange reason, my parents let me watch the twisted tale by Tennessee Williams. Miss Hepburn didn’t make much of an impression on my young mind, but Elizabeth Taylor’s ample bosom and the films horrific ending sure did.

One of my all-time favorite films is "The Lion in Winter." Miss Hepburn won her third Oscar for her powerful performance as Eleanor of Aquitaine. The film is a brutal and darkly funny tale of one of history’s most dysfunctional families. I can’t think of another film, which contains such caustic and cutting dialogue. Peter O’Toole, Anthony Hopkins, Nigel Terry and Timothy Dalton co-starred. You will be hard pressed to find a better performance by any actress in any role than Miss Hepburn’s. I am still amazed that Miss Hepburn tied with Barbra Streisand (Funny Girl) for the Best Actress Oscar that year. There is no comparison between the two performances.

Miss Hepburn won her other two Oscars for her work in the films "Guess Who’s Coming to Dinner" and "On Golden Pond." In addition to her memorable on-screen pairings with Spencer Tracy, Miss Hepburn is probably best remembered for her role as the spinster with a bit of life still in her in John Huston’s "The African Queen."

I saw an interview with Miss Hepburn once. I believe it was one of the Dick Cavett interviews, but I can’t be sure. She said that her father told her, upon her initial success as an actress, to not change her frugal lifestyle. Her father explained that her success might be fleeting. If she didn’t take to living the high life, she wouldn’t miss it when it was gone. Miss Hepburn stated that she always tried to heed that particular advice. She didn’t go Hollywood. Yet she conquered Hollywood anyway. And she did it on her own terms.

BUDDY HACKETT Died June 29 or 30, 2003

I can’t think of another actor’s voice better suited to say the word "snarfblatt" than that of Buddy Hackett’s. That was the name Hackett’s character Scuttle gave a smoking pipe in Disney’s "The Little Mermaid." Rubber-faced comedian Buddy Hackett died at age 79. He had suffered from diabetes for a number of years. Buddy Hackett was one of those rare people who could make you laugh just by standing up. He was a master of both physical and verbal comedy. He also had the gift of being able to make you laugh with clean material more than most younger comics could with more risqué material. Buddy Hackett was also known as a true gentleman and a decent man.

Among Mr. Hackett’s film credits are "God’s Little Acre," "The Music Man," the overblown "It’s A Mad, Mad, Mad, Mad World," "The Wonderful World of the Brothers Grimm," Disney’s "The Love Bug," "Little Mermaid" and "Little Mermaid II." Buddy Hackett was a perennial favorite on "The Tonight Show with Johnny Carson." Buddy Hackett had that special ease, like other frequent guests Burt Reynolds and Robert Blake, which made him a natural choice as a guest star.

Richard Donner’s "Scrooged" with Bill Murray has become a regular Christmas tradition at my house. Buddy Hackett played himself in "Scrooged." Mr. Hackett had a lengthy TV career which include roles on "The Jackie Gleason Show" and "You Bet Your Life." Hackett played comedian Lou Costello to Harvey Korman’s Bud Abbott in the made for TV biopic "Bud and Lou." What should have been a great film is only mediocre.

I lived in Las Vegas for a number of years. I regret not having taken the time to see Buddy Hackett perform live when I lived there. Life is short. Take advantage of your opportunities when you can. Thanks for a lifetime of laughter. Prayers of comfort for his wife, children and friends.

BARRY WHITE Died July 4, 2003

Grammy winning composer singer Barry White died at age 58. Mr. White suffered a stroke last year and also suffered from high blood pressure and kidney failure. Barry White produced the best make-out music since Frank Sinatra. There’s an old joke by somebody: "I wonder what Frank Sinatra listens too when he makes love?" I guess the same thing could be asked of Barry White. There must be millions of couples who turned the lights low and got real comfortable to Mr. White’s smooth, lusty music.

Mr. White’s music was used on the soundtracks of a number of films and TV shows. His music was used to set the sexy mood in a number of "Ally McBeal" episodes. Mr. White also appeared on an episode of that TV series. Other film credits as a composer include "Dead Presidents," "Beautiful Girls," "Dick" and "The Bachelor."

BUDDY EBSEN Died July 6, 2003

Song-and-dance man/character actor Buddy Ebsen died at age 95. The beloved actor has been a favorite of audiences for over 70 years. Mr. Ebsen had success on stage, film and TV. He is best known for his role as Jed Clampett on the hit 1960s TV series "The Beverly Hillbillies." "The Beverly Hillbillies" was the highest rated shows on television for most of its eight-year run. Ebsen’s line "Well Doggies" is one of the most often imitated lines of dialogue from any TV show in history. Back in 1962 and 63, bedtime for my brothers and sisters and me was 7PM, except on Thursday nights when we got to stay up to 7:30 to watch Jed and all his kin.

Mr. Ebsen was cast as the Tin Man in "The Wizard of Oz." He recorded a number of musical tracks and posed for publicity photos. The part was recast after Mr. Ebsen nearly died from an allergic reaction to the silver paint used in the Tin Ma’s makeup. Jack Haley took over the role. Like James Cagney, the lanky actor’s first love was song and dance. Ebsen turned in a memorable performance in the Shirley Temple film "Captain January." His dance routine with Miss Temple rivals her dance routine with the legendary Bill ‘Bojangles’ Robinson in "The Littlest Rebel."

Buddy Ebsen made his film debut in "The Broadway Melody of 1935." He had been a dancer on the stage before his move to film. Mr. Ebsen’s first film roles featured his song and dance abilities. During the 1950s, Mr. Ebsen began to get more dramatic roles in action films. He played George Russel in Disney’s "Davy Crockett" films culled from their TV series. The phenomenal popularity of the "Davy Crockett" TV series and movies pushed Ebsen’s career forward.

Ebsen played Doc Golightly in Blake Edwards’ "Breakfast at Tiffany’s." His performance in that film lead to his being cast as Uncle Jed in "The Beverly Hillbillies." Following the cancellation of "Hillbillies," Mr. Ebsen scored another TV success as the private detective "Barnaby Jones." Ebsen made a cameo appearance as Barnaby Jones in the movie version of "The Beverly Hillbillies."

JOHN SCHLESINGER Died July 25, 2003

Multi-award winning director/producer/writer/actor John Schlesinger died at age 77 after being taken off life support. Mr. Schlesinger suffered a massive stroke in December of 2000. Mr. Schlesinger was one of several directors responsible for the ‘British Invasion.’ Schlesinger’s work along with that of Tony Richardson, Karel Reisz and others invigorated the British film industry in the early 1960s. This renaissance came on the heels of the French ‘New Wave.’

John Schlesinger won the Oscar for Best Direction for his landmark film "Midnight Cowboy." The film also won the Best Picture Oscar, the only X-Rated film to do so. "Midnight Cowboy" was considered daring for its time as it openly explored homosexuality. This was at the same time as the Stonewall riot in which patrons at a gay bar in New York fought back against harassment by the NYPD. Schlesinger, who was gay took what was essentially an old-fashioned ‘buddy movie’ and set it in the seamy world of New York street hustlers. Both Dustin Hoffman and Jon Voight delivered some of their best work in the film.

Mr. Schlesinger was nominated two other times for the Best Director Oscar for "Sunday, Bloody Sunday" and "Darling." Mr. Schlesinger was nominated for seven BAFTA (the British equivalent of the Oscar and Emmy combined) for his work in film and TV. He won five times for Best Short Film: "Terminus", Best British Film "Darling" twice for Best Direction: "Midnight Cowboy" and "Sunday, Bloody Sunday" and twice for his work in British TV. In addition to those prestigious awards, Mr. Schlesinger’s work has been honored by a number of major film festivals and critic’s societies.

John Schlesinger’s contributions to the ‘British Invasion’ were the films "A Kind of Loving" with Alan Bates, "Billy Liar" with Tom Courtenay and Julie Christie and "Darling" with Julie Christie. All stars received BAFTA nominations for the performances under Schlesinger’s direction. Julie Christie also was nominated for and won an Oscar for her performance as the promiscuous model in "Darling." Ms. Christie teamed up with Schlesinger a third time for the visually stunning, but slow period piece "Far From the Madding Crowd." Mr. Schlesinger’s next two films dealt with homosexuality in a frank manner. First was "Midnight Cowboy," followed by "Sunday, Bloody Sunday."

"Sunday, Bloody Sunday" starred Peter Finch, Glenda Jackson and Murry Head (Judas from the album "Jesus Christ Superstar"). "Sunday, Bloody Sunday" told the tale of a gay man (Finch) and a straight woman (Jackson) who share the sexual favors of a bisexual man (Head). Though the two main characters are aware of each other, they don’t push the man in the middle for fear of losing his affection. The film was nominated for numerous awards. As groundbreaking as the film was concerning its subject matter, it seems dated when viewed today.

Schlesinger looked at the rotten under-belly of fame and Hollywood in his spectacular adaptation of Nathaniel West’s "Day of the Locust." Donald Sutherland and Karen Black delivered powerhouse performances in this bleak look at life on the fringe in 1930s Hollywood. Schlesinger followed "Locust" with his most successful box-office hit.

"Marathon Man" still delivers a punch today. Dustin Hoffman, Laurence Olivier, Roy Scheider and William Devane are all in top form in Schlesinger’s taut thriller. Olivier is outstanding as a Nazi dentist who wants to know "Is it safe?" You will never look at a trip to the dentist the same way again. If at all possible, skip this one on network TV. It deserves to be seen in widescreen and uncut.

After a few duds link "Yanks" and "Honky Tonk Freeway," Schlesinger returned to top form in the true-life thriller "The Falcon and the Snowman." Sean Penn and Timothy Hutton prove once again that Schlesinger is a director who delivered tight, exciting drama and suspense, but also was able to elicit wonderful performances from his cast. Penn and Hutton play spoiled American spies Daulton Lee and Christopher Boyce. Schlesinger deals with many of his familiar themes in "Falcon." He examines human failures without judging them. Schlesinger followed "Falcon" with one of my favorite horror films: "The Believers." Schlesinger produced both "Falcon" and "The Believers."

The opening scene of "The Believers" has Janet Laine-Green electrocuted in front of Harley Cross who plays her son, in a freak breakfast cereal accident. Martin Sheen plays the dad, a New York cop. He too watches as his wife dies a horrifying death. This shocking scene is followed by a creepy tale of Voodoo in the big city. Again, Schlesinger delivered taut action and pulled great performances from his players. For me, this was Schlesinger’s last good film. I know that many folks like the tenant from hell movie "Pacific Heights," but I found the premise preposterous, even though Michael Keaton was incredibly good as every landlord’s worst nightmare.

John Schlesinger is not the first name that comes to mind when you use the word ‘auteur,’ but an overview of his career reveals a director with a steady vision, a tight directing style and a proven record of both critical and popular successes. Maybe John Schlesinger wasn’t an auteur, but he was a superb director who will be missed. Prayers of comfort for his family and friends.

ERIC KEITH BRAUNN Died July 25, 2003

Composer Eric Keith Braunn died of cardiac arrest at age 52. Mr. Braunn was the lead guitarist of the band "Iron Butterfly." He played on their most famous album "Ina-Gadda-Da-Vida." "Ina-Gadda-Da-Vida." was the very first album to ever go ‘Platinum.’ In fact the award was created to recognize that particular album’s sales. Iron Butterfly appeared in concert on numerous TV shows including "The Steve Allen Show, " The David Frost Show," "American Bandstand," "Playboy After Dark" and "The Red Skelton Comedy Hour." Their music has been used on the soundtracks of a number of films including the climactic scene of Michael Mann’s "Manhunter," "The Adventures of Ford Fairlaine" and "A Nightmare on Elm Street."

BOB HOPE Died July 27, 2003

British born, American treasure Bob Hope died at age 100. Mr. Hope may be best remembered for his tireless dedication to entertaining troops during times of conflict. Whether the war was popular with the public or not, Mr. Hope could be counted on to set politics aside and help the men and women on the battlefield forget their troubles for a while. Mr. Hope was honored five times by the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences. He was given four Honorary Oscars and one Jean Hersholt Humanitarian Award. In 1998, Mr. Hope was Knighted by Queen Elizabeth thus becoming Sir. Bob Hope.

My first memory of Mr. Hope was my father showing me a photograph of him and Mr. Hope in England during the Korean War. My dad was stationed in Manchester and Hope made a call on the troops. As a small child, whenever a Bob Hope movie was on TV I’d turn to my dad and say "You met him." If my friends happened to be over, I’d enjoy bragging that my dad had met the guy on TV. If I ever figure how to turn the photo into a jpeg, I’ll post it here.

Bob Hope performed in all mediums. He was on stage during the days of vaudeville, radio, nightclubs, TV, film and especially overseas wherever the bullets were flying. In order to keep this obituary within EI’s bandwidth I’ll just stick to his films.

Without a doubt, Mr. Hopes most famous films were the seven "Road" pictures he made with Bing Crosby and Dorothy Lamour. Hope and Crosby usually played con-men getting in and out of trouble in exotic locales while fighting over the woman. The plots were goofy, but the wisecracks never stopped. You could always count on the heroes fooling some ignorant badguy with their "paddy-cake" routine.

Though Mr. Hope was a predominantly comic actor he did a nice dramatic turn in the biography of vaudeville star Eddie Foy in "The Seven Little Foys." Of course, the reason you went to see Bob Hope was to laugh, so fortunately he concentrated on the laughs. Some of Mr. Hopes better vehicles were "The Paleface," "Son of Paleface," "Sorrowful Jones" and "Monsieur Beaucaire."

His quick wit was one of the reasons he hosted the "Academy Awards" twenty times! Mr. Hope was a fixture on TV during the 60s, 70s and 80s as he hosted a number of "Bob Hope Specials." I guess I’ll have to use the line that every obit writer in the country is going to use. I can’t help it as the line is so appropriate: "Thanks for the memories!"

SAM PHILLIPS Died July 30, 2003

I worked my way through Memphis State University waiting tables at Jim’s Place East in Memphis. About once a month an unassuming guy with a beard came in to eat. Sometimes he came alone, other times he was with his sons and others. He was easy to wait on, always had something funny to say about whatever was happening at the time. He was a good tipper. He also took an interest in the person who was waiting on him. The staff at Jim’s Place East were predominantly college students. I had worked there over a year before I found out the guy who had to be the most considerate customer I had waited on in 20 years of restaurant work was the legendary Sam Phillips. The man who discovered Elvis Presley, Johnny Cash, Carl Perkins and Roy Orbison. The man many claim was the person who invented Rock and Roll.

Sam Phillips died of undisclosed causes at age 80. Mr. Phillips said way back when that he wanted to find a White man who could sing like a Black man. He found him in the person of Elvis Presley. In his small recording studio on Union Avenue in Memphis, Mr. Phillips first recorded the King of Rock and Roll.

Mr. Phillips appeared in the documentaries "Elvis 85," "Hollywood Rocks the Movies: The Early Years" and "Sounds of Memphis." Mr. Phillips was portrayed by several actors in dramatic films about the life and career of Elvis. Charles Cyphers portrayed Sam Phillips in John Carpenter’s "Elvis" with Kurt Russell in the title role. "Elvis" was the highest rated TV movie of all time when originally broadcast. Sam’s son Knox (who is also a pleasant guy to wait on) played his father in the pseudo-documentary "This is Elvis." Jordon Williams played Mr. Phillips in the 1990 mini-series "Elvis." My personal favorite was Trey Wilson’s take on Sam in the campy Jerry Lee Lewis bio-pic "Great Balls of Fire."

FREDERICK COFFIN Died July 31, 2003

Highly recognizable character actor Frederick Coffin died of lung cancer at age 60. If you have been to the movies or watched TV during the last 25 years, chances are you have seen Mr. Coffin’s work. Mr. Coffin appeared in this years creepy horror thriller "Identity." Other film credits include "Hard to Kill," "V.I. Warshawski," "Wayne’s World," "Shoot to Kill," "The Bedroom Window" and "Jo Jo Dancer: Your Life is Calling." Mr. Coffin’s TV credits include the classic mini series "Lonesome Dove," "Andersonville," "The Edge of Night," "Family Law," "Providence," "The X-Files," "Walker: Texas Ranger," "L.A. Law" and "McGyver."

MARIE TRINTIGNANT Died August 1, 2003

French actress Marie Trintignant died at age 41 after allegedly being beaten into a deep coma over the weekend by her boyfriend, French rock star Bertrand Cantat. She underwent two separate emergency surgeries but did not recover. Doctors were trying to relieve the pressure on Ms. Trintignant’s brain due to a cerebral hemorrhage she suffered after the severe beating on Sunday. Mr. Cantat is being questioned by the police in Vilnius, Lithuania where the attack happened. Ms. Trintignant was on location filming the movie "Colette," which she co-wrote with her mother, director Nadine Trintignant. Ms. Trintignant was the daughter of French actor Jean-Louis Trintignant (Z, A Man and a Woman) and writer/director Nadine Trintignant. Ms. Trintignant was flow back to France from Lithuania where she died early this morning. Ms. Trintignant appeared in nearly 70 feature and TV films and during a career that began in 1967. She was nominated five times for Best Actress and Best Supporting Actress Cesar Awards in her native France. Ms. Trintignant had just completed the film "Janis and John" in which she played Janis Joplin to Christopher Lambert’s John Lennon. Among Ms. Trintignant’s film credits are the stylishly erotic horror film "Deep in the Woods," "Harrison’s Flowers," Claude Charbrol’s "Betty," "Ponette," "Wings of Fame" and "The Story of Women." Prayers of comfort for her family and friends during this difficult time.

UPDATE: On March 31, 2004, Bertrand Cantat was convicted of killing Ms. Trintignant. He recieved 8 years.

GREGORY HINES Died August 9, 2003

Award-winning actor/dancer/director Gregory Hines died of cancer at age 57. Gregory Hines was a star in the sense that Gary Cooper and John Wayne were stars: he was able to just be himself in anything and it was more than enough to carry his scenes. He was a star in the sense that Fred Astaire and Gene Kelly were in that he was the best tap dancer of his generation. Gregory Hines had a friendly warm persona that made you want to watch to see what he would do next. It didn’t matter if he was involved in a film involving dancing or not. Go rent Michael Wadleigh’s intelligent horror film "Wolfen." Hines plays one of Albert Finney’s fellow cops investigating a series of murders. Hines captures your attention and wins you over. Gregory Hines helped the audience suspend disbelief. He was a hell of a dancer though! I don’t care what anyone says; I like "The Cotton Club." Hines both entertained you with his dancing and involved you in his character’s dilemmas.

Gregory Hines received a Daytime Emmy Award for his work on Bill Cosby’s animated show "Little Bill." Mr. Hines was nominated for a number of other awards including Outstanding Performance by a Male Actor in a Television Movie or Miniseries by the Screen Actor’s Guild for his performance in "Bojangles." Hines also produced the TV biography about dancing great Bill "Bojangles" Robinson.

Other film and TV credits include "The Gregory Hines Show," "Will and Grace," "Waiting to Exhale," "Rage in Harlem," "Eve of Destruction," "White Nights," "Running Scared," "History of the World: Part I," "Muppets Take Manhattan" and "Deal of the Century."

HERB BROOKS Died August 11, 2003

Hockey legend Herb Brooks was killed in an automobile accident at age 66. Mr. Brooks was thrown from the minivan he was driving when it rolled over. Herb Brooks led a group of young men to one of the greatest upsets in sports history. Mr. Brooks was the coach in the 1980 Olympic Men’s Hockey Team. Against all odds, the Brooks coached team won the Gold Metal at Lake Placid against the odds-on favorites Russia’s Men’s team. "The Miracle on Ice" united people across the United States like few sporting events before had. The event became the subject of a Made for TV film one year later. Karl Malden portrayed Herb Brooks in "Miracle on Ice." Andrew Robinson and Steve Guttenberg played two of his players. Another film, "Miracle" is currently in post-production. Kurt Russell plays Brooks in the film set for 2004 release. Mr. Brooks appeared as himself in the 2001 documentary "Do You Believe in Miracles? The Story of the 1980 U.S. Hockey Team." Prayers of comfort for his family and friends.

IDI AMIN Died August 16, 2003

Ugandan despot, murder and cannibal Idi Amin died at age 78. Idi Amin Dada, dictator for life of Uganda only ruled for eight years. During that time, he was responsible for the slaughter of over 100,000 people. Amin was also alledged to have experimented with cannibalism, Amin gained a world stage from which to flaunt when an Air France airliner with a large number of Israeli passengers was hijacked by the PLO and flown to Entebee Airport in Uganda. The terrorists held the passengers hostage in hopes of gaining release of a number of imprisoned PLO members. Idi Amin acted as the ‘impartial mediator’ for the terrorists. Israeli commandos flew into Uganda and freed all of the hostages except for an elderly woman who had been taken to a hospital. The Israeli commandos only suffered one casualty! This incident became the subject of two US Made for TV movies and an Israeli theatrical feature. Amin was portrayed by Julius Harris in ABC’s inferior "Victory at Entebbe." NBC did a better job with "Raid on Entebbe" which featured Yaphet Kotto as Amin and Peter Finch in his final role as Yitzahk Rabin. Both US TV films featured all-star casts. By far the best film version of this historical event is the Israeli film "Operation Thunderbolt." Menahem Golan directed this amazing film which tells the many tales of bravery and sacrifice in a straightforward and realistic manner. The movie was nominated for the Best Foreign Film Oscar in 1978. This movie is proof that you don’t need an all-star cast to make a classic movie. Mark Heath portrayed Amin in "Operation Thunderbolt." Amin was the subject of and appeared as himself in the documentary "Idi Amin Dada" directed by Barbet Schroder. The documentary was made before the Entebbe incident. Amin was also portrayed by Themba Gasa in Michael Mann’s "Ali," Prince Hughes in "The Naked Gun," Joseph Olita in both "Mississippi Masala" and "The Rise and Fall of Idi Amin" and Makalo Mofokeng in "Dr. Lucille." After Amin was deposed, he fled first to Libya and then to Saudi Arabia where he lived in splendor without having to pay for his crimes. Hopefully his passing will bring some comfort to his thousands of victims who survived. Hopefully he made peace with his maker.

MICHAEL CONSTANTIN Died August 29, 2003

French tough-guy Michael Constantin died at age 79 in a French hospital. Mr. Constantin was known primarily in Europe, however he did appear in several films well-known in America. Mr. Constantin appeared with Charles Bronson in "Cold Sweat" and "The Family." Mr. Constantin appeared in over 50 films during his lengthy career. Mr. Constantin appeared in "The Outside Man," which co-starred Roy Scheider and Ann-Margret. The film was directed by French tough-guy director Jacques Deray who died earlier this month.

CHARLES BRONSON Died August 30, 2003

Charles Bronson brought so much wonderful enjoyment into my life. The 81-year-old international film superstar died from pneumonia, organ failure and Alzheimer’s Disease. Charles Bronson was more than just a tough guy, more than a macho film hero. Charles Bronson was a dedicated actor who always delivered a good performance, even when the material he appeared in was beneath him. Mr. Bronson appeared in nearly 100 films during his 50-year career. He also made a number of guest appearances on TV series. Charles Bronson was an Icon during the 1960s and 70s. Several classic films were made all the better by his presence. Mr. Bronson was married three times. His second wife actress Jill Ireland died of breast cancer. The couple was married 22 years and appeared in 16 films together.

I didn’t have a good father figure growing up. A lot of what I learned about what it is to be a man came from the movies. I guess I’m saddened by Mr. Bronson’s passing because he was an actor whose work had a profound influence on me as a young child. I learned about overcoming fear and internal courage from his performance as Danny the Tunnel King in "The Great Escape." The claustrophobic POW overcame his fears to help free his fellow soldiers. I learned about compassion from his performance as Bernardo in "The Magnificent Seven." Unlike the other hired guns, Bernardo came to love the villagers who hired him. His death became a sacrifice rather than the act of a mercenary. I learned about having the courage to do the right thing even if it cost you your freedom from his performance as Wladislaw in "The Dirty Dozen." I learned about what it is to be ‘cool’ from numerous performances. These are just thoughts that are flooding from my subconscious. I guess, rather than be sad at his passing, I should feel thankful for his work. I didn’t know the man other than the image he portrayed on film.

Charles Bronson appeared in his early films under his real name Charles Buchinsky. He appeared in a couple of Spencer Tracy films early in his career: "The People Against O’Hara" and "Pat and Mike." Bronson always received good review even during the early days. I remember seeing a re-release of the 1953 film "House of Wax" in 3D on the big screen back in the early 70s. Mr. Bronson played Vincent Price’s assistant Igor. The scene where Bronson hides behind a shelf of wax heads still makes audiences jump. Bronson later co-starred with Vincent Price in the sci-fi fantasy "Master of the World." This time around Bronson was the hero, fighting the megalomaniac Price. Mr. Bronson starred in his first TV series in the late 50s. "Man with a Camera" ran from 1958-60.

Though Charles Bronson was a strong actor, he didn’t achieve superstar status until the late 1960s. Sergio Leone’s "Once Upon a Time in the West" is my all-time favorite film. Bronson co-starred with Henry Fonda, Jason Robards and Claudia Cardinale. The epic masterpiece is a Western of mythical proportions. Bronson plays Harmonica, a steely-eyed man of mystery who stalks Henry Fonda’s cold-blooded character Frank throughout the film. Sam Raimi paid homage to this subplot in his film "The Quick and the Dead."

Another film worth finding is Rene Clement’s "Rider on the Rain." The stylistic film concerns an Army officer tracking a sexual serial killer through France. Bronson plays the officer. This was also the second film Bronson made with wife Jill Ireland. When I was in the Air Force, I saw the over-looked romantic comedy "From Noon Till Three" with Bronson and Ireland. This funny sweet film tells the tale of a fleeing bank-robber that hides out from a posse with a schoolmarm. They fall in love and become intimate. It would ruin the movie to tell you more, so I won’t except to say if you get the chance to see this one, do so.

In addition to his work in Westerns, Charles Bronson made an impact in crime films, playing both the goodguy and the badguy. "The Valachi Papers" was based on the non-fiction book by Peter Maas. Bronson played Joe Valachi, a Mafioso who testified before Congress in 1962. Valachi provided law enforcement with the first inside look at the Mafia. Another personal favorite is "The Mechanic." Bronson plays a methodical hitman who trains a protégé played by Jan Michael Vincent. In Michael Winner’s "The Stone Killer," Bronson is a tough cop out to battle modern day Mafioso in Los Angeles. Bronson teamed up with Michael Winner again in one of the most controversial films of the 1970s.

If you didn’t witness the furor caused by Michael Winner’s "Death Wish," you wouldn’t believe the amount of debate the film stirred up. The movie was the subject of numerous newspaper editorials, TV commentaries and major magazine articles. Charles Bronson plays Paul Kersey, a mild-mannered businessman whose wife and daughter are brutally rapes. The wife played by Hope Lange dies and the daughter is reduced to a coma. Through a gradual process, Kersey becomes a vigilante. This film outraged the liberal majority at the time. Few films have stirred up such debate over law and order. Even Clint Eastwood’s "Dirty Harry" didn’t cause as much controversy. The controversy was good for the box-office. Bronson went on to make a number of highly inferior sequels.

One of my favorite Westerns is the Western/Mystery "Breakheart Pass." "Breakheart Pass" is also memorable in my life as I had the bad luck of being arrested and taken to juvenile hall the night I saw it. As I pulled out of the parking lot, some redneck in a pickup cut me off. Being a typical Southern teenager, I tried returning the favor. I ended up blowing out a tire on the curb. While I was changing the tire, one of my less than intelligent buddies decided to urinate in the middle of the street as a cop was driving by. Oh well! At least I got to see the movie first.

The hits continued to come. Bronson starred in "Chato’s Land," Red Sun," "Mr. Majestyk," "Breakheart Pass," "Breakout" and Walter Hill’s "Hard Times." Things slowed down in the 80s. Bronson still drew crowds to the theaters, but not to the degree he did in the 1970s. He made a series of TV movies about a "Family of Cops." They run frequently on cable TV and are worth seeing. Mr. Bronson finally found a role worthy of his talents in 1991. Sean Penn cast him as the father of the film’s two main characters in "The Indian Runner." Though it wasn’t his last film, it could be considered his very worthy swan song. Prayers of comfort for his family and friends, and thanks for enriching my life through your work. Thanks also for his service to our country as a tail-gunner during WWII!

RAND BROOKS Died Sept. 1, 2003

Actor Rand Brooks died of cancer at age 84. Mr. Brooks was best known for playing the nebbish first husband of Scarlett O’Hare in the classic "Gone With the Wind." Despite being identified with this role, Mr. Brooks had a prolific career, appearing in over 100 films and TV Shows. Mr. Brooks appeared in many episodes of "The Lone Ranger" as well as being a regular in the "Hopalong Cassidy" films. His final film as the made for TV film "The Sex Symbol" with Connie Stevens. If you get the chance to see the European theatrical version of the film you will be treated to a nude Ms. Stevens. "The Sex Symbol" told the tale of a Marilyn Monroe type actress. Ironically, Mr. Brooks gave Miss Monroe her first screen kiss in the film "Ladies of the Chorus."

JULES ENGEL Died Sept. 6, 2003

Oscar nominated animator Jules Ingel died at age 94 after a short illness. Mr. Ingel created "Mr. Magoo" and "The Alvin Show" with Herbert Klynn. Mr. Ingel was nominated for the Best Short Subject, Cartoons Oscar in 1963 for "Icarus Montgolfier Wright." Ray Bradbury wrote the script. In 1977, his film "Rumble" was nominated for the Golden Palm at Cannes for Best Short Film. Mr. Ingel worked for Disney Studios, animating parts of "Fantasia" and "Bambi." He was the production designer on the 1971 animated feature "Shinbone Alley." Mr. Ingel was the founder of the Experimental Animation program at Cal Arts. Mr. Ingel taught a number of talented and well-known animators including Henry Selick, Eric Darnell, John Lassiter and Mark Osbourne.

WARREN ZEVON Died Sept. 7, 2003

Warren Zevon faced his impending death the way he embraced life. With zest, creativity, courage and love. Prayers of comfort for his family and many friends. Thanks to Mr. Zevon for not only his music, but also the inspirational final chapter of his life. Last week, Howard Stern played some excerpts from Mr. Zevon’s new album on his radio show. Mr. Stern had to stop playing the music after a couple of verses of a song that asked the listener to "keep me your heart for a while." I had a hard time driving to work as I listened to the cuts that Howard Stern played. Mr. Zevon’s unique and powerful voice was sharing his inner self as he faced death. I was struck, not by sadness, although that is part of it, but more by Mr. Zevon’s openness. He is a class act. Last November. I received press releases from the PR firm promoting Mr. Zevon’s records. The press release said that Mr. Zevon had only weeks to live. Thank God for granting Mr. Zevon almost a year. In that time, he played concerts, recorded an amazing album and saw the birth of his twin grandchildren. I have been a fan of Warren Zevon's since the late 1970s. His humor, intelligence and incredible musical talent never failed to entertain and enthrall me.

Mr. Zevon’s music had been used in a number of movies and TV shows. His credits include "Midnight Cowboy," "FM," "The Color of Money," "Things to Do in Denver When You’re Dead." In fact "Denver" took its title from a Zevon song. Mr. Zevon died of lung cancer at age 56. Gone way too soon, but what a full life he led!

LENI RIEFENSTAHL Died Sept. 8, 2003

Controversial filmmaker/actress Leni Riefenstahl has died of cancer at age 101. Ms. Riefenstahl was responsible for the powerful Nazi propaganda film "The Triumph of the Will." "Triumph of the Will" documented the 1934 Nazi rally in Nuremberg. Ms. Riefenstahl also directed the films "Olympia" parts 1 and 2, which chronicled the 1936 Olympic games in Berlin. Ms. Riefenstahl has been the center of controversy for her role in Hitler’s Reich. While there is no doubt that Ms. Riefenstahl was in innovative photographer and a powerful filmmaker, there have been many people who wanted her prosecuted for war crimes. Gypsies used as extras in some of her films later died in concentration camps. Ms. Riefenstahl always denied knowledge of the death camps. However, there can be no doubt that her powerful imagery helped Adolph Hitler rise to power.

LARRY HOVIS Died Sept. 9, 2003

Actor/writer/producer/teacher Larry Hovis died of cancer at age 67. Mr. Hovis was a regular on three of the most popular TV series of the 1960s. Mr. Hovis is best remembered for his role as Sgt. Carter on the hit TV series "Hogan’s Heroes." Mr. Hovis was also a regular on both "Rowan and Martin’s Laugh In" and "Gomer Pyle U.S.M.C." I never met Mr. Hovis in person, but he was involved in trying to produce one of my screenplays: a rock music version of "The Picture of Dorian Gray." The script was co-written with my uncle, 60s New Age musician Malachi. He and Mr. Hovis worked very hard for a number of months to put a deal together. Close, but no cigar. I have always been thankful for the work he did for us. When I told my uncle that Larry had died, he said "He was, probably, one of the fathers of 'reality' TV. (I'm sure that so-called 'reality TV's mother was a whore - thus - many fathers.) He was an unusually warm guy for that part of the world." In addition to his acting career, Mr. Hovis was a successful TV game show producer. He produced "The Liar’s Club," "Celebrity Sweepstakes" and "Yahtzee." He wrote the 1960s spy spoof/beach movie "Out of Sight." Most recently, Mr. Hovis taught drama at Texas State University in San Marcos Texas. Prayers of comfort to his family and friends.

EDWARD TELLER Died Sept. 9, 2003

Edward Teller will forever be known by a nickname that he hated. The Father of the H-Bomb died at age 95 after recently suffering a stroke. Mr. Teller worked on the Manhattan Project during WWII. He was a proponent of a strong military arsenal. His efforts to gain support for the research and development of the hydrogen bomb resulted in his unwanted moniker. Mr. Teller has been portrayed by several actors on film. Barry Yourgrau did the honors in feature film "Fat Man and Little Boy." David Suchat played him in the TV mini series "Oppenheimer." There were others. Mr. Teller appeared in several TV movies, documentaries and feature films including the JFK conspiracy film "Executive Action," "Hiroshima," "Trinity and Beyond" and "The Century."

JOHN RITTER Died Sept. 11, 2003

It is always a shock when someone dies unexpectedly. John Ritter, fine comic and serious actor died at age 54 unexpectedly from a dissection of the aorta. High blood pressure caused the walls of Mr. Ritter’s aorta to deteriorate and separate. Mr. Ritter was on the set of his hit TV show "8 Simple Rules for Dating My Daughter" when he fell ill. He was rushed to the hospital where attempts to save his life were unsuccessful. Mr. Ritter died on his daughter’s 5^th birthday. His wife, actress Amy Yasbeck’s birthday is today.

The Emmy and Golden Globe Award winning John Ritter was the youngest son of cowboy movie star and singer Tex Ritter. Mr. Ritter is best known for his role as Jack Tripper in the 1970s sitcom "Three’s Company." The series was one of the surprise hits of its era. Despite horrendous critic opinion, "Three’s Company" became a huge hit with the fans. Ritter’s character shared an apartment with two women: Suzanne Somers, Joyce DeWitt and Priscilla Barnes after Ms. Somers’ contract was cancelled. Jack Tripper pretended to be gay to appease his nosey landlord. Times were different in those days. The gay ruse was used to make the ‘living in sin’ element of the storyline less controversial.

Ritter trained with famed acting teacher Stella Adler. He appeared in nearly 200 TV shows and feature films. He also had extensive stage experience. Though most people know Mr. Ritter from "Three’s Company," he appeared in a number of fine films. Critics heaped great praise on Mr. Ritter for his performance in Billy Bob Thorton’s "Sling Blade." He made a funny cameo in the hilarious made for TV Western "Evil Roy Slade." He had a bit part in Charles Bronson’s brutal cop film "The Stone Killer." Mr. Ritter played Rev. Fordwick on the family TV series "The Waltons" for three years. Other credits include Peter Bogdanovich’s ode to the days of silent films: "Nickelodeon." One of his most under-rated films was "Hero at Large" where he played an actor who inadvertently becomes a super hero when he stops a robbery while wearing a movie prop costume. In Blake Edwards’ "Skin Deep," Ritter played a womanizer who gets what is coming to him. The near miss is best remembered for the glow-in-the-dark dueling condom scene. Mr. Ritter also made a good impression in the TV mini series version of Stephen King’s "It."

John Ritter brought happiness into the world. He was great at sophisticated comedy as well as slapstick. He also proved himself worthy as a serious dramatic actor. He was nominated for three Daytime Emmy Awards and five Emmys, winning as Outstanding Lead Actor in a Comedy Series for "Three’s Company." He was also nominated for five Golden Globes, also winning for "Three’s Company. He was nominated, along with the entire cast of "Sling Blade" for the Screen Actor’s Guild Outstanding Performance by a Cast Award. Prayers of comfort for his family and friends.

JOHNNY CASH Died Sept. 12, 2003

What a day of conflicting emotions. While the death of John Ritter is shocking by its unexpected nature, the passing of Johnny Cash was expected. While his voice and vision will be missed, Mr. Cash’s passing can be celebrated. Mr. Cash lived a full life. His pain and suffering are at an end. The grief he felt at the recent death of his soul mate is quenched. To paraphrase I Corinthians 9:24-27, Mr. Cash ran the good race, he stayed the course. Hopefully Mr. Cash has found eternal peace.

Johnny Cash, the Man in Black. I discovered the music of Johnny Cash when he released the "Live at Folsom Prison" album. I’ve always been a rock and roller, but something about Johnny Cash’s music transcends genres. He was a badass with a guitar. Mr. Cash was also a role model. He was one of the lucky ones who survived drug and alcohol addiction.

Johnny Cash had a lengthy movie and TV career. He wasn’t the best actor in the world. His impact on film was not anywhere as important or influential as his impact on the world of music was. He did deliver a good performance in the made for TV film "Murder in Coweta County." Mr. Cash wrote produced and co-starred with his wife in "The Gospel Road." He co-starred with Kirk Douglas in the mediocre Western "A Gunfight."

As a composer, Mr. Cash has provided music to a number of films including "I walk the Line" starring Gregory Peck and Tuesday Weld, "Frailty," "Dead Man Walking," "Things to Do in Denver When You are Dead" and "Big Fauss and Little Halsey" among others. There was a nice reference to his music in Ron Howard’s "Apollo 13." During the ‘untelevised show from space’ scene, Bill Paxton plays Norman Greenbaum’s "Spirit in the Sky." One of the ground control astronauts reacts by saying "When I go up on Apollo 18 I’m taking my entire collection of Johnny Cash." Johnny Cash died at age 71 from complications related to diabetes.

SHEB WOOLEY Died Sept. 16, 2003

Veteran character actor/singer-songwriter Sheb Wooley died of Leukemia at age 82. Mr. Wooley had attended the family visitation for the funeral of Johnny Cash on Sunday when he became ill. Mr. Wooley was close friends with singer Tex Ritter, father of John Ritter. Though Mr. Wooley had a successful acting career, he is best known for his #1 novelty song "Purple People Eater." Mr. Wooley’s film credits include the classic Western "High Noon." Tex Ritter sang the title song for "High Noon." Mr. Wooley met the singer on that set. He played bad guy Ben Miller in the Fred Zinneman film. Other film appearances include Clint Eastwood’s "The Outlaw Josey Wales," George Stevens’ "Giant," "Seven Brides for Seven Brothers," "The War Wagon," "Silverado" and "Hoosiers." Mr. Wooley was a regular on the hit TV series "Wagon Train." Movie in-joke fans are endebted to Mr. Wooley as the man who recorded the scream for the Gary Cooper western "Distant Drums" which has become known as the 'Wilhelm Scream.' The distinctive cry of anguish has been used in over 100 films and TV shows by sound editors with a sense of humor including just about every movie George Lucas has made.

GORDON MITCHELL Dies Sept. 20, 2003

Actor/producer/cult movie icon Gordon Mitchell has died at age 80. Mr. Mitchell appeared in over 200 films during his lengthy career. The muscleman was a WWII combat veteran who fought in Europe and was present when the death camp at Buchenwald was liberated. Mr. Mitchell who turned to teaching after the war. Mr. Mitchell served his country once more as a First Lieutenant during the Korean War. Mr. Gordon became a fixture on Muscle Beach in California. He was a notorious ladies man. His website (gordonmitchell.net) has six galleries of all the girls he loved! In 1956 he went on the road as part of the Mae West Revue. Mr. Mitchell had bit parts in a number of fines films such as "The Ten Commandments," "Around the World in Eighty Days," "The Enemy Below," "Rio Bravo," "The Spirit of St. Louis" and "Spartacus."

Mr. Gordon went to Rome with a six-week contract to act in a sword and sandal film. He stayed for 30 years. The bulk of Mr. Gordon’s films involved gladiators. He also appeared in a multitude of spaghetti Westerns. I remember Mr. Gordon from "The Sons of Hercules" TV series in the early 60s which showed films like "Hercules vs. the Sea Monster" and "The Fury of Achilles." In addition to his many sword and sandal films, Mr. Gordon appeared in Fellini’s "Satyricon" and "Reflections in a Golden Eye." Mr. Gordon appeared in a film during which the producer couldn’t pay him. Instead, Mr. Gordon received some land outside Rome. He built his own Western movie studio. Over 50 films were shot at Cave Studios in the early 1970s.

TOM BUSBY Dies Sept. 20, 2003

Canadian actor Tom Busby died at age 67 of an apparent heart attack. Mr. Busby only appeared in a few films, but was part of one elite group. Busby played Milo Vladek, one of "The Dirty Dozen." Busby is quoted as saying he was part of "the second six" as the movie focused more on the big name stars in the film. His character’s big scene involved his having to execute the staff of the hideaway the group is attacking. Lee Marvin tells him to "feed the French and kill the Germans." Mr. Busby’s other film credits include Carl Foreman’s "The Victors," "The War Lover" with Steve McQueen and "Heavenly Pursuits." Mr. Busby retired from acting in the 1980s and moved to Scotland.

STANLEY FAFARA Died Sept. 20, 2003

Child actor Stanley Fafara died of complications after surgery at age 54. Mr. Fafara played ‘Whitey,’ the Beaver’s best friend on the hit TV series "Leave it to Beaver." Mr. Fafara developed a severe drug and alcohol problem, but he had been clean for the last 8 years. Mr. Fafara also appeared in "The Wonderful World of the Brothers Grimm," "Good Morning Miss Dove" and the TV series "Wanted: Dead or Alive."

GORDON JUMP Died Sept. 22, 2003

Two episodes of "WKRP in Cincinnati" stand out in my mind as examples of actor Gordon Jump’s talent. Mr. Jump played Arthur 'Big Guy' Carlson, the radio station president. One funny moment and one serious moment. The TV se4ries most famous line dealt with an ill conceived give away contest involving Les Nessmann dropping turkeys from a helicopter. In response, Mr. Jump delivered the series’ most famous line: "As God is my witness, I thought Turkeys could fly. On the serious side, Mr. Jump shone during the series episode dealing with the tragic deaths of 11 concert goers at a 1979 show by "The Who." Jump’s purpose was to play ‘everyman’ as Howard Hessman and others explained what went wrong. It was a tasteful and powerful way of dealing with real tragedy.

Gordon Jump died at age 71, He was suffering from pulmonary fibrosis. Mr. Jump appeared in over 100 films and TV shows during a 40+ year career. In addition to his most famous role on "WKRP in Cincinnati," Mr. Jump maybe best known for his work in the Maytag TV commercials. Mr. Jump succeeded the late Jessie White as the ‘Maytag Repairman.’ Mr. Jumps credits include Brain DePalma’s "The Fury," the original film version of "House Calls," the classic Made for TV film "Sybil," "Conquest for the Planet of the Apes" and the pilot film "Starsky and Hutch." Mr. Jump had guest roles on a multitude of TV shows including "Seinfeld," "Get Smart," "Baywatch," "Daniel Boone," "Love Boat," "Mannix" and "Different Strokes." Mr. Jump’s guest appearance on "Different Strokes" in episodes "The Bicycle Man: Part 1 & 2" made TV history. Playing against type, Mr. Jump played a child molester who targeted Gary Coleman and Shaver Ross.

LYLE BETTGER Died Sept. 24, 2003

Veteran character actor Lyle Bettger died at age 88. Mr. Bettger’s film and TV career spanned four decades. Mr. Bettger played Klaus, the elephant trainer in Cecile B. Demille’s "The Greatest Show on Earth." Among his many credits are the excellent crime drama "Union Station" with William Holden, "Destry" with Audie Murphy, "Nevada Smith" with Steve McQueen and Russ Meyer’s "The Seven Minutes." Mr. Bettger played Ike Clanton in the classic Western "Gunfight at the OK Corral." Mr. Bettger had a lengthy career on TV. He moved to Hawaii when he became a regular during season 10 of "Hawaii 5-O." He appeared in one of the best episodes of one of the best TV series of the 1970s. Bettger appeared in the gritty "Incident in a Kill Zone" episode of Joseph Wambaugh’s series "Police Story." Mr. Bettger was the son of St. Louis Cardinal 3^rd Baseman Frank Bettger.

HERB GARDNER Died Sept. 25, 2003

Tony winning and Oscar nominated writer Herb Gardner died of lung disease at age 68. Mr. Gardner was nominated for the Best Writing, Material Adapted from another Medium Oscar for "A Thousand Clowns." Mr. Gardner adapted his own hit Broadway play. The hilarious comedy starred Jason Robards and Barry Gordon. Mr. Gardner had a number of plays adapted to the screen. I saw Vincent Gardenia on stage in "I’m Not Rappaport." Walter Matthau and Ossie Davis stared in the film version. Mr. Gardner’s other credits include the Dustin Hoffman misfire "Who is Harry Kellerman, and Why is He Saying Those Things About Me?." "Thieves" with Marlo Thomas and "The Goodbye People." Mr. Gardner also directed the film versions of "The Goodbye People" and "I’m Not Rappaport." Mr. Gardner also has the distinction of making a cameo appearance in the stinker "Ishtar."

GEORGE PLIMPTON Died Sept. 25, 2003

Author/actor George Plimpton died at age 76. Though Mr. Plimpton came from a privileged background, his appeal spanned all classes of people. His most popular success was the book "Paper Lion," in which Mr. Plimpton chronicled his foray into the NFL. He went through training camp with the Detroit Lions and actually got to take the field for a few catastrophe filled moments. The book was turned into a movie. Alan Alda played Plimpton. Mr. Plimpton acted in over 50 films, TV shows and documentaries. His film credits include Oliver Stone’s "Nixon," "Reds" with Warren Beatty, "Rio Lobo" with John Wayne, "Good Will Hunting," "Little Man Tate," "The Last Days of Disco" and "Edtv." Mr. Plimpton was a classmate of Robert F. Kennedy. He was standing in front of the senator when Kennedy was assassinated. Plimpton was one of the people who tackled Sirhan Sirhan. (EI note: Actress Martha Plimpton is the daughter of Keith Carradine, not George Plimpton.)

ROBERT PALMER Died Sept. 26, 2003

Rocker Robert Palmer died of a heart attack at age 54. Mr. Palmer died in Paris where he was visiting after having filmed a TV special in England. Palmer had success as a solo artist and as part of Power Station. Power Station also included two former Duran Duran members. Palmer’s song "Addicted to Love" was turned into one of the most popular music videos of all time. Mr. Palmer’s music was used on the soundtracks of "Pretty Woman," "The Wraith" and "The Color of Money" among others. Palmer had a bit part in the Bee Gees misfire "Sgt. Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band."

DONALD O’CONNOR Died Sept. 27, 2003

Emmy and Golden Globe winning actor Donald O’Connor has died at age 78. Mr. O’Connor, one of the great song and dance men from the classic era of Hollywood was an accomplished actor, but was typecast in musical comedies. Mr. O’Connor appeared in over 100 films and TV shows during his illustrious career. Mr. O’Connor co-starred with Gene Kelly and Debby Reynolds in the classic "Singing in the Rain." Mr. O’Connor was probably best known for co-starring with a mule in the "Francis" series. "Francis the Talking Mule" was a successful movie series in the 1950s. O’Connor and his four-legged co-star appeared in six "Francis" films. Clint Eastwood’s first credited film appearance was in the 1955 movie "Francis in the Navy."

Mr. O’Connor made the transition to TV where he enjoyed much success during the 1950s. Mr. O’Connor was nominated for five Emmy Awards, winning for Best Male Star of a Regular Series for "The Colgate Comedy Hour." Mr. O’Connor came from a vaudeville background. He appeared in a number of movies while still a child. A number of Mr. O’Connor’s great athletic dance routines were included in the great documentaries "That’s Entertainment" and "That’s Entertainment II." He had a nice cameo in Milos Foreman’s "Ragtime" as Evelyn Nesbitt’s dance instructor. He is on stage performing during the scene that recreates the murder of Stanford White on the roof top theater at Madison Square Garden. Mr. O’Connor’s most famous movie scene has to be the high powered "Make ‘Em Laugh" routine in "Singing in the Rain." He did make us laugh. Thanks.

ELIA KAZAN Died Sept. 28, 2003

Elia Kazan, one of the most talented, gifted and controversial directors in film and theater history has died at age 94. Mr. Kazan’s work received high praise worldwide and he was honored with two Best Director Oscars, an Honorary Oscar, a DGA award, four Golden Globes, a Best Picture at Cannes, New York Film Critic’s Award…the list goes on. Despite directing some of the best films of the 20^th century, Mr. Kazan has been vilified by a large number of people because of his testimony before HUAC in 1952. A number of noted celebrities refused to stand or applaud when Mr. Kazan was honored with a special Oscar in 1999. There are politics and there are movies. Sometimes the two paths cross. What if Kazan hadn’t gone before HUAC? Think about it.

Kazan was called before HUAC twice in 1952. He admitted that he had been a member of the communist party in 1934 but had left in disgust. Kazan refused to name names the first time he testified. He was called back a second time. HUAC wanted the names of other members of the Group Theater to which Kazan had belonged. This time he named names. The names were already known to the committee from previous witnesses. Kazan’s exposure to communism had made him devoutly anti-Communist. Kazan explained his beliefs and decision this way: "To defend a secrecy I don’t think right and to defend people who have already been named or soon would be by someone else. . . I hate the Communists and have for many years and don’t feel right about giving up my career to defend them. I will give up my film career if it is in the interests of defending something I believe in, but not this."

Kazan was in production on "Viva Zapata!" when he testified. Prior to his testimony, Mr. Kazan had directed "A Tree Grows in Brooklyn," "Gentleman’s Agreement," "Panic in the Streets," and "A Streetcar Named Desire." All good movies. Had Kazan not testified about something he hated, these films would be his legacy. He had won a Best Director Oscar for "Gentleman’s Agreement." A number of actors including Vivian Leigh, Karl Malden, Kim Hunter, James Dunn, Celeste Holm won Oscars under his guidance in these pre-HUAC films. Anthony Quinn won one for "Viva Zapata!" which was made during the time Kazan testified. Obituary writers around the world would be praising Kazan and lamenting the films that never got made because of the blacklist had things been different and Kazan not testified. Kazan did testify, and so we have those post-HUAC films with which to judge Mr. Kazan’s talent.

"On the Waterfront," "East of Eden," "Baby Doll," "A Face in the Crowd," "Wild River," "Splendor in the Grass," "America, America." What wonderful films. Important films. What wonderful performances by some of the best actors ever to grace the silver screen. What if they had never been made? Or made by someone else? Kazan was a follower of Stanislavski’s Method. He was able to coach exquisite performances from his actors. James Dean as Cal in "East of Eden," Marlon Brando as Terry in "On the Waterfront." Could another director have pulled such magnificent performances out of these actors? Maybe, but probably not. Kazan’s films stand alone as ahead of their time. Kazan operated in the final days of the studio system, yet his movies foreshadowed the artistic and social freedom of the next decade. Kazan dealt with corruption, sexuality, and child abuse. Heady themes for the Fabulous Fifties.

I guess by now you are wondering what my point is. Am I saying that great artistic talent should be used to excuse behavior that is reprehensible? Not at all. So what if Hitler was a competent painter, or that Charlie Manson was thought to have musical talent by some in Hollywood. Their artistic talent does nothing to mitigate what they did. Maybe Woody Allen would be a better example. I have not watched one of his films since he seduced his adopted daughter and married her. I loved his work. I won’t watch it today, because I am afraid I will enjoy it, and I don’t want to. I was saddened to see Mr. Allen at the Oscars. What is the different between boycotting Woody Allen and vilifying Elia Kazan? I think there is much difference. Kazan believed in what he did. He had a proven track record as an anti-Communist long before HUAC came calling. He was never apologetic. He was willing to pay the price for his beliefs. Would I have rather he took the same stand as his friend Arthur Miller, and stood up to the committee? Hell yes. Not because I’m pro-Communist, but because I am pro-American. HUAC went against everything for which the Bill of Rights stands. The Freedom of Speech separates us from totalitarian countries with deadly thought police. We had much to fear from communism in the 50s as we do today. However, to deny American citizens the right to a livelihood because of their beliefs in Un-American. I have mixed feelings about Elia Kazan. I love his work. I admire the fact that he never equivocated about what he did. Like Harry Truman, the buck stopped with him. He stood by his decision. I hate that some people he named suffered under the terrible blacklist. They would have suffered anyway as they had already been named. Does that make it any less tragic? No. They paid the price for their beliefs the same way as Kazan paid the price for his. Prayers of comfort for those who loved him and for those who hated him

FLORENCE STANLEY Died Oct. 3, 2003

Actress Florence Stanley died of a stroke at age 79. Ms. Stanley worked primarily on stage but she was no stranger to TV and film audiences. She was a regular on the TV series "Barney Miller" and its spin off "Fish." She played the wife of Abe Vigoda’s character Det. Fish. Her film credits include "Bulworth," "Up the Down Staircase," "The Day of the Dolphin," "The Fortune" and "Outrageous Fortune." Ms. Stanley was also a regular on the TV series "Dark Shadows" and "My Two Dads." Ms. Stanley was known for her gravelly voice. She was in high demand for voice work. She voiced characters in a number of animated films and TV shows including "Dinosaurs," "House of Mouse," "Family Guy," "A Goofy Movie," "Atlantis: The Lost Empire" and "Atlantis: Milo’s Return."

WALLY GEORGE Died Oct. 5, 2003

Right wing talk show host Wally George died of pneumonia at age 71. Mr. George was cut from the same cloth as Morton Downey Jr. His extreme TV show involved inviting guest with opposing views and then insulting and abusing him. I can only describe his show as a cross between the WWE and Jerry Springer. Wally George’s TV show was brutal and often bogus as Mr. George had actors appear as make believe guests. Mr. George was the biological father of actress Rebecca DeMornay but was not a part of her life. In addition to Mr. George’s TV show he appeared as himself in such movies as "Club Fed," "Repossessed" and "A Nightmare on Elm Street: The Dream Child."

MARK HANNA Died Oct. 16, 2003

Writer/actor Mark Hanna died at age 86 from a stroke. Marl Hanna is best know for sci-fi scripts of the 1950s. He wrote or co-wrote with Charles Griffith the scripts for three of the most popular B-Movies to come from that era: "Not of This Earth," "Attack of the Colossal Man" and "Attack of the 50 Foot Woman." "Attack of the 50-Foot Woman" was remade by HBO and starred Daryl Hannah. "Not of This Earth" was remade twice, once with former underage porn star Traci Lords. Mr. Hanna received credits on each remake. Mr. Hanna’s other writing credits include "Jet Attack" starring John Agar, "The Gatling Gun" and the Blaxploitation film "Slaughter" which starred football great Jim Brown. Mr. Hanna wrote three films for legendary producer Roger Corman. In addition to "Not of This Earth," Mr. Hanna’s Corman credits include "The Undead" and "Naked Paradise." Mr. Hanna acted in several films during the 1950s.

JANICE RULE Died Oct. 17, 2003

Actress turned psychoanalyst Janice Rule died at age 72. Ms. Rule appeared on stage and screen. She had over 60 film and TV credits. Ms. Rule’s on-screen persona was sultry and intelligent. Among her credits are Robert Altman’s "3 Women," Cost-Gavras’ "Missing," "The Swimmer" with Burt Lancaster, "Kid Blue" with Dennis Hopper and Warren Oates, the Matt Helm spy spoof "The Ambushers" and "Welcome to Hard Times" with Henry Fonda. Ms. Rule co-starred with Marlon Brando, Robert Redford, Robert Duvall, Jane Fonda and Angie Dickinson in "The Chase." "The Chase" is one of the more interesting misfires of the 1960s. Arthur Penn directed the all star cast in the Lillian Hellman scripted mess. The behind the scenes stories are more interesting than anything that ended up on screen. Ms. Rule as Robert Duvall’s wife is sexy and mean as the town tramp. Ms. Rule also appeared in the classic comedy "Bell, Book and Candle." She played Jimmy Stewart’s girlfriend, at least until Kim Novak came into the picture. Ms. Rule had another Kim Novak connection. She played the part of Midge opposite Paul Newman in the original Broadway cast of William Inge’s "Picnic." Kim Novak played the part in Joshua Logan’s film version! Ms. Rule received her Ph.D. in 1983 and practiced as a psychoanalyst in New York and LA. Her husbands included actor Ben Gazarra and "Rainmaker" playwright N. Richard Nash.

JACK ELAM Died Oct. 20, 2003

Harmonica: And Frank?

Snaky: Frank sent us.

Harmonica: Did you bring a horse for me?

Snaky: (laughs) Well…looks like we’re… looks like we’re shy one horse.

Harmonica: (nodding head) You brought two too many.

That exchange between Charles Bronson as Harmonica and Jack Elam as Snaky opens Sergio Leone’s masterpiece "Once Upon a Time in the West." Jack Elam played the leader of a trio of killers sent to kill Bronson. The 12-minute opening credit scene is a wonderful set piece, made all the more memorable because of Jack Elam’s craggy face. As his character waits for the train carrying Bronson to arrive, he does battle with a pesky fly. Elam huffs and puffs to make the fly leave him alone. He finally captures it in the barrel of his six-shooter. Sergio Leone originally wanted Clint Eastwood, Lee Van Cleef and Eli Wallach from "The Good, the Bad and the Ugly" to portray the trio of killers. Instead he used Jack Elam, Woody Strode and Al Mulock (who committed suicide on the set!). Sergio Leone liked faces. He was the master of the close up. Actor Danny Aiello was upset when he was asked to do a camera test for "Once Upon a Time in America," until he realized it wasn’t a matter of talent, but that Leone just wanted to see what his face would look like in an extreme close-up. Jack Elam’s visage delighted Leone. Though he was only in the first scene of the movie, "Once Upon a Time in the West" is one of his best screen performances.

Veteran character actor Jack Elam has died at age 84 of undisclosed causes. Elam’s age was in dispute as the actor lied about his age to make himself older so he could get work. Jack Elam appeared in over 200 films and TV shows. He was adept at playing both villains and comedic roles. His list of Western film credits includes a number of the best in the genre. In addition to "Once Upon a Time in the West," his credits include "The Gunfighter," "High Noon," "Rancho Notorious," "Vera Cruz," "Gunfight at the O.K. Corral," "The Comancheros," "Rio Lobo," "Hannie Caulder" and Sam Peckinpah’s "Pat Garrett and Billy the Kid." Those are just some of his film credits. When it comes to TV Westerns, chances are he made a guest appearance. He had over 100 TV credits in guest roles.

While Jack Elam could play the meanest killer to walk the face of the earth, he could make you laugh. His unique face and roaming blind eye were just two of the tools he used to make people laugh. Among his comedic films were "The Slowest Gun in the West," "Never a Dull Moment," "Support Your Local Sheriff!," "The Over-the-Hill Gang," "Cockeyed Cowboys of Calico County," "Support Your Local Gunfighter," the TV remake of "Cat Ballou," "Hawmps!," "Hot Lead and Cold Feet," "The Apple Dumpling Gang Rides Again" and the first two "The Cannonball Run" movies. Thanks for the frights and the laughs. Prayers of comfort for his family and friends.

ELLIOT SMITH Died Oct. 21, 2003

Oscar nominated composer and folk punk musician Elliot Smith has, according to press reports, apparently committed suicide at age 34. Mr. Smith died of a single stab wound to the chest. Mr. Smith had been fighting a battle with alcoholism. Mr. Smith’s song "Miss Misery" from the movie "Good Will Hunting" was nominated for the Best Song Oscar. Mr. Smith’s songs have been used on the soundtracks of numerous films including "American Beauty," "The Royal Tenenbaums," "Keeping the Faith" and "Zero Effect." Mr. Smith appeared in the film "Southlander." Mr. Smith was working on his sixth album "From A Basement On A Hill" at the time of his death. Prayers of comfort for his family and friends.

ELLIOT SMITH UPDATE

The LA Coroner's office stated on December 30, 2003 that they are unable to determine if Mr. Smith's fatal stab wound was self-inflicted or the result of an attack. The spokesman said either scenario is possible based on their tests. There were no illegal drugs in Mr. Smith's system at the time of his death. The LAPD is continuing their investigation.

FRED BERRY Died Oct. 22, 2003

Actor Fred Berry died of a stroke at age 52. Mr. Berry was best know for his role as Rerun in the hit TV series "What’s Happening" and "What’s Happening Now!." Mr. Berry appeared in one of my favorite B-Movies "Vice Squad." He played Sugar Pimp, who had the misfortune to have a run in with the evil Ramrod played by Wings Hauser. More recently, Mr. Berry had a cameo role in the David Spade comedy "Dickie Roberts: Former Child Star." Other credits include "In the Hood," "Bum Runner" and an episode of the NBC TV series "Scrubs." Mr. Berry won a long battle with alcohol and drug addiction. He became a Baptist minister in the 1980s, but returned to acting and doing special events as his Rerun character.

MADAME CHIANG KAI-SHEK Died Oct. 24, 2003

One of the most powerful women of the 20^th century has died at the age of 106. Madame Chiang Kai-Shek outlived all of her contemporaries. The wife of Chinese leader Chiang Kai-Shek, Madame Chiang took a leading role in her husband’s battle with the Communist Chinese and also the Japanese during WWII. Born Soong Mei-Ling in 1897, Madame Chiang was the daughter of a wealthy minister and publisher. Educated in America, she married the future leader of the Nationalistic movement in China. Generalissimo Chiang Kai-Shek led the revolt against the Manchu Dynasty. She raised millions of dollars for the war against Japan during a tour of the US. Following WWII, her husband’s Nationalistic Party battled Chairman Mao’s communist party. In 1949 she followed her husband and his government into exile in Taiwan. Chiang Kai-Shek died in 1975 after which Madame Chaing moved to New York.

Madame Chiang appeared in Frank Capra’s film made for the US Army "The Battle of China." She appeared in the documentary "The People Between" which was made during the battle for power between her husband and Mao’s communists. Other credits include "Vietnam: A Television History" and "The Century of Warfare" among others. Madame Chiang was a devout Christian and attributed her longevity to her faith in God.

JOANNA LEE Died Oct. 24, 2003

Award winning writer/producer/director/actress Joanna Lee died of bone cancer at age 72. Ms. Lee began her career as an actress, appearing in Ed Wood’s infamous "Plan 9 from Outer Space." Other acting credits include "The Brain Eaters," "Death Valley Days" and "Leave it to Beaver." Ms. Lee turned to writing after suffering serious injuries in an auto accident. She won an Emmy for her script for an episode of "The Waltons." Shw was nominated for another Emmy for her scipt for the TV bio-pic "Babe" with Susan Clark as famed female athlete Babe Didrikson Zaharias.

BOBBY HATFIELD Died Nov 5, 2003

Bobby Hatfield was, with Bill Medley, one half of the greatest Blue Eyed Soul group ever. The Righteous Brothers had a string of hits during the 1960s that landed them in the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. Mr. Hatfield's death was triggered by acute cocaine intoxication at age 63. The singing due were in Michigan to begin a tour. Their version of the song "Unchained Melody" was featured in the films "Ghost" and "Baby it’s You." The Righteous Brothers appeared in "Beach Ball," "A Swinging Summer" and "Shindig" among others. Their hit songs include "You’ve Lost That Lovin’ Feeling", "(You're My) Soul and Inspiration" and "Rock and Roll Heaven." The later was a comeback hit for the band in 1974. If I remember the chorus correctly" "If there’s a Rock and Roll Heaven, You know they’ve got a hell of a band." I guess that band just added another great singer. Those drugs will kill you folks! Prayers of comfort for his family and friends.

ART CARNEY Died Nov. 9, 2003

Oscar and Emmy winning actor Art Carney died at age 85 after a long illness. Art Carney was best known as the lovable doofus Ed Norton opposite Jackie Gleason’s Ralph Kramden on the classic TV series "The Honeymooners" and "The Jackie Gleason Show." Art Carney’s career underwent resurgence in the 1970s when he won the Best Actor Oscar and a Golden Globe for his performance in Paul Mazursky’s "Harry and Tonto." Mr. Carney was nominated eleven times for Emmy Awards, winning seven! Carney won his long battle with alcohol during this time and appeared in a number of fine films. A personal favorite of mine is "Going in Style." Carney co-starred with George Burns and Lee Strasberg as three pensioners who decide to rob a bank to supplement their fixed income. "Going in Style" is a sweet little film with good humor and rich performances. Carney co-starred with James Cagney in Cagney’s final film, the Made for TV boxing film "Terrible Joe Moran." Carney was also a standout as the stubborn Harry Truman (not the president) in the true life "St, Helens," about the volcanic eruption in 1980. Other credits include Robert Benton’s "The Late Show" with Lily Tomlin, "W.W. and the Dixie Dance Kings" with Burt Reynolds, "The Star Wars Holiday Special," the curio "Movie, Movie," "House Calls," "Firestarter" and "The Last Action Hero." Mr. Carney served his country during WWII and was wounded storming the beaches on D-Day. Thanks for the laughs, and for the tears.

ROBERT BROWN Died Nov. 11, 2003

Veteran British character actor Robert Brown has died at age 85. Mr. Brown appeared in over 60 films and TV shows. He is best know as the second "M" in the James Bond series. He replaced Bernard Lee as the head of MI6. Brown portrayed "M" in the films "Octopussy," "A View to a Kill," "The Living Daylights" and "License to Kill." Mr. Brown portrayed Admiral Hargreaves in the Bond film "The Spy Who Loved Me." Point of Trivia: Both Bernard Lee and Robert Brown appeared in Carol Reed’s classic Noir thriller "The Third Man." Among Mr. Brown’s numerous film credits are "The Man Who Never Was," "Helen of Troy," "A Hill in Korea," "Ben-Hur: A Tale of the Christ," "Billy Budd," "The Masque of Red Death," "Operation Crossbow," "Demons of the Mind" and "Warlords of Atlantis."

PENNY SINGLETON Died Nov. 12, 2003

Actress Penny Singleton died at age 95 after suffering a stroke two weeks ago. Ms. Singleton played Blondie Bumstead in a series of films based on the comic strip "Blondie." Ms. Singleton appeared in 29 "Blondie" films during the 1930s, 40s and 50s. Ms. Singleton is also well known as the voice of Jane Jetson on the animated TV series "The Jetsons." Ms. Singleton’s non "Blondie" credits include "After the Thin Man" with William Powell and Myrna Loy, "The Best Man" with Henry Fonda, the TV series "The Twilight Zone" and "Death Valley Days."

JONATHAN BRANDIS Died Nov. 12, 2003

Actor Jonathan Brandis died of at age 27. He was found at home by friends. L.A. County Coroner's office has ruled his death suicide by hanging. Mr. Brandis delivered a standout performance in the Stephen King mini-series "It." Brandis played ‘stuttering Bill’ as a child. Richard Thomas played the character as an adult. Mr. Brandis was nominated for five Young Artist Awards, winning Best Youth Actor Leading Role in a Television Series for his work on the TV series "Seaquest." Mr. Brandis took over Barret Oliver’s role as Bastian in the sequel to "The Never Ending Story." "The Never Ending Story: II" was Mr. Brandis first leading role. He had appeared in a number of films before that including "Fatal Attraction," "Stepfather II" and "Ghost Dad." Mr. Brandis’ other credits include "Ladybugs," "Sidekicks," "Outside Providence," "Hart’s War" and "The Year That Trembled." In addition to his many acting roles on TV and in film, Mr. Brandis wrote an episode for the TV series "Seaquest." Prayers of comfort for his family and friends.

GENE ANTHONY RAY Died Nov. 14, 2003

What a terrible month for young actors. Gene Ray Anthony is the third young actor to die in as many days. In a radio interview this weekend, actress Debbie Allen stated that actor/dancer Gene Anthony Ray had died. According to the website FameForever.com, Mr. Ray died on November 15 at age 41. "Fame" actor Lee Curreri informed FameForever.com that Mr. Anthony died from the onset of a stroke. Mr. Ray shone in his performance as Leroy in the movie "Fame." His audition scene is one of the great scenes in modern film musicals. I never saw the TV series myself, but Mr. Ray’s popularity carried over from the big screen to the small. He played Friday to Michael York’s Robinson Crusoe in the Made for TV film "Robinson Crusoe and Man Friday." Other credits include "Out of Sync" and "Eddie." Mr. Ray was also the associate choreographer on "Eddie." Prayers of comfort for his family and friends.

DAVID HOLT Died Nov. 15, 2003

I have always relished the final scene of the 1938 version of "The Adventures of Tom Sawyer." Tom plays a trick on his foppish cousin Sidney Sawyer. The little brat reacts as usual and whines "Aunt Polly!" Rather than coddle the spoiled brat as she had done during the rest of the film, Aunt Polly promptly slaps Sidney hard across the face. Gotta love it. Actor David Holt was the child actor who perfectly captured all things rotten in his portrait of the uber-brat Sidney in "Tom Sawyer." Mr. Holt died of congestive heart failure at age 76. Groomed to be a star by Paramount, David Holt instead became a respectable supporting player. In addition to his role in "Tom Sawyer," Mr. Holt appeared in "The Courage of Lassie," "The Last Days of Pompeii," "Beau Geste," "The Pride of the Yankees" and "The Big Broadcast of 1937."

ALBERT NOZAKI Died Nov. 16, 2003

Oscar nominated Art Director Albert Nozaki died at the age of 91. Mr. Nozaki shared an Oscar nomination for his work on Cecil B. Demille’s "The Ten Commandments." Mr. Nozaki is best known for his fantastic design work on the 1953 version of "War of the Worlds." Mr. Nozaki created the memorable Martian space ships and the creatures for the classic film adaptation of H.G. Wells’ novel. Other film credits include several George Pal films: "When Worlds Collide," "Houdini" and "Robinson Crusoe on Mars." He worked on the classic comedy "Sullivan’s Travels." His work can also be seen in the Elvis Presley vehicles "Blue Hawaii" and "Loving You." Mr. Nozaki was born in Japan. He grew up in California. Like many Japanese Americans, Nozaki spent WWII in the internment camp at Manzanar. Mr. Nozaki’s brilliant career was cut short by a degenerative eye disease, which lead to total blindness.

MICHAEL KAMEN Died Nov. 18, 2003

Multi Award winning composer Michael Kamen died at age 55 after a long battle with multiple sclerosis. Mr. Kamen was nominated for two Oscars along with Bryan Adams and Robert John Lange for their work on "Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves" and "Dan Juan Demarco." The trio won a Grammy for their song from "Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves." Mr. Kamen was nominated for an Emmy for his score on the outstanding HBO mini-series "From the Earth to the Moon." He won an astounding eleven BMI Film Music Awards between 1988 and 2002! Mr. Kamen also received two ASCAP Awards and won the BAFTA (British Academy Award) once. Mr. Kamen provided music or orchestration for over 100 films and TV series. In addition to his massive film music output, Mr. Kamen was the co-founder and leader of the New York Rock and Roll Ensemble. He also worked with Kate Bush, Queensryche, Metallica, Pink Floyd and Aerosmith. Among Mr. Kamen’s numerous film credits are a number of my personal favorites. He provided songs for the dated, but fun rock and roll Western "Zachariah." "Zachariah" has one of the coolest movie posters ever! Mr. Kamen played the synthesizer on the great Christian rock musical "Godspell." There are so many great films in his resume that it is hard to pick out the best. Other credits include Tobe Hooper’s "Lifeforce," Mark Lester’s "Stunts," David Cronenberg’s "The Dead Zone," "Highlander," all four "Lethal Weapon" movies, all three "Die Hard" movies, "Mona Lisa," "Pink Floyd’s The Wall," "License to Kill," "The Krays," "Mr. Holland’s Opus," "X Men" and "Open Range." It is sad that such a talent lost his battle so young. We are fortunate that he left an enormous output of work during his short lifetime.

JIM SIEDOW Died Nov. 20, 2003

Actor Jim Siedow died at age 83 at home in Houston, Texas. You might not know Mr. Siedow’s name, but if you are a fan of horror films chances are he scarred the bejezzus out of you in his most famous film "The Texas Chainsaw Massacre." Mr. Siedow played Drayton Sawyer, the father of the homicidal clan. Any character who sired and raised Leatherface had to be a twisted character. I can’t tell you how disturbing is the scene in which Mr. Siedow’s character torments the girl played by Marilyn Burns as he drives her home for dinner. What is amazing about Mr. Siedow's performance is not only the perfect depiction of insanity, but the degree of humor he brought to the part. His performance in the first sequel was over the top, but then again, the entire sequel was over the top! Jim Siedow appeared in the first sequel "The Texas Chainsaw Massacre 2" and a few other films. He appeared in an episode of Steven Speilberg's TV series "Amazing Stories." Mr. Siedow served his country in the Army Air Corp during WWII. He was a frequent performer on stage in his hometown of Houston. I spoke with his wife Ruth. She is very appreciative of the many fans who loved her husband’s work and for the prayers of comfort that many people are sending up to heaven on her family’s behalf. Mrs. Siedow laughed as she said "We were married 57 years in September. 57 years and still talking!" Thanks to Mr. Siedow for 30 years of pure terror and for his service to his country. Prayers of comfort for his family and friends.

LUCY ANDERSON HERRMANN Died Nov. 21, 2003

Lucy Anderson Herrmann died of a stroke at age 82. Ms. Herrmann was the second wife of famed composer Bernard Herrmann. She was married to Mr. Herrmann from 1949 through 1965. She was sometimes referred to as ‘Lucy 2’ as she was the cousin of Herrmann’s first wife, screenwriter Lucy Fletcher. According to Ms. Herrmann’s close friend Bruce Crawford, Ms. Herrmann had suffered a debilitating stroke one month before her death. The photo by Mark Montgomery shows Ms. Herrmann with Bruce Crawford and producer Arnold Kunert at the luncheon following the presentment of Ray Harryhausen’s Star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. Ms. Herrmann was married to the composer during his most prolific period of creative achievement. Ms. Herrmann was a source on Mr. Crawford’s highly regarded radio documentary about the music and life of Bernard Herrmann. She was also a frequent guest at Mr. Crawford’s Omaha Film Events. Prayers of comfort for her family and friends.

GERTRUDE EDERLE Died Nov. 30, 2003

Gertrude Ederle, the first woman to swim the English Cannel, died at age 98. Ms. Ederle swam the 21-mile English Channel on August 6, 1926. She became a major celebrity in Europe and the United States for her feat. Ms. Ederle’s swim was measured at 35 miles. She appeared as herself in the 1927 film "Swim Girl, Swim." She also appeared in archived footage in the 1950 documentary "Fifty Years Before Your Eyes." She was a member of the 1924 Olympic Team.

EARL BELLAMY Died Nov. 30, 2003

I can’t imagine anyone who watched TV during the 1960s and 70s not recognizing the name of Earl Bellamy. The ubiquitous director of film and TV directed over 1,500 TV episodes! He also had a lengthy career as a film director and assistant director. Workhorse Earl Bellamy died of a heart attack at age 80. Mr. Bellamy shared the DGA Best Director Award with Fred Zinnemann for the classic "From Here to Eternity." Mr. Bellamy was the assistant director on the film. Mr. Bellamy was awarded the Golden Boot Award from the Motion Picture and Television Fund for his work in Westerns. Mr. Bellamy was an assistant director on over 40 films including the Judy Garland/Frederick March version of "A Star is Born," "From Here to Eternity," "Born Yesterday," "Salome" and "Sirocco." He directed the movies "Walking Tall: Part II," "Sidewinder 1," "Munsters Go Home," "Three Guns for Texas" and others. However, Mr. Bellamy spent most of his career as a TV director, helming both Made for TV movies and TV series episodes. There weren’t many TV series in the 1960s and 70s that he didn’t contribute too. Among his small screen credits are "V: The Mini Series," "Starsky and Hutch," "I Spy," "M*A*S*H,"S.W.A.T.," "ChiPS," "Hart to Hart," "Marcus Welby M.D.," "Then Came Bronson," "The MOD Squad," "The F.B.I.," "Get Smart," "The Munsters," "The Virginian," "The Andy Griffith Show," "McHale’s Navy," "Rawhide," "Perry Mason" and "Wagon Train." The list goes on!

DAVID HEMMINGS Died Dec. 3, 2003

British actor David Hemmings died of a heart attack at age 62. Mr. Hemmings had just finished filming scenes for the movie "Samantha’s Child" when he suffered a heart attack and died. The movie is being shot in Romania. Mr. Hemmings became an international star in Michaelangelo Antonioni’s cryptic classic "Blowup." Hemmings played a London fashion photographer during the swinging 60s who believes he accidentally photographer a murder. Antonioni’s film is part mystery but more a psychological study of Hemmings character. He appeared in a number of films and eventually turned to directing episodic TV. Hemmings starred in Dario Argento's outstanding horror film "Deep Red." His cameo as Sean Connery’s ill-fated friend in "The League of Extraordinary Gentlemen" was one of the few good things about that movie. Mr. Hemmings film credits include "Barbarella," as Mordred in "Camelot," "Charge of the Light Brigade," "The Love Machine," the excellent thriller "Juggernaut," the under rated Sherlock Holmes film "Murder by Decree," "Gladiator" and "The Gangs of New York." Mr. Hemmings directed a few films and episodes of "Magnum P.I.," "The A Team," "Airwolf," "In the Heat of the Night" and "Murder She Wrote."

JEANNE CRAIN Died Dec. 14, 2003

Oscar nominated actress Jeanne Crain died of a heart attack at age 78. While Ms. Crain appeared in a number of high profile films, I have a fondness for her because of a low-budget piece of trash called "Hot Rods to Hell." When I was 9 years old, I got to watch this lurid potboiler about a disabled guy who moves his family to the desert to run a motel. The local hoods try to scare the guy off because they think he’s going to clean up the make-out motel. The bad guys also put the moves on the family’s hot teenage daughter. Ms. Crain and Dana Andrews play the establishment couple battling a gang of souped-up and very horny juvenile delinquents. It is a horrible movie that is very enjoyable! Ms. Crain was nominated for a Best Supporting Actress Oscar in 1948 for the film "Pinky." The film was quite controversial at the time. Ms. Crain played the title character, a light-skinned black woman passing for white. Ethel Barrymore and Ethel Waters co-starred. Other credits include "State Fair," "Cheaper by the Dozen," "A Letter to Three Wives," "Belles on Their Toes," the wonderful "Gift of the Magi" segment of "O. Henry’s Full House," "Duel in the Jungle," "Gentlemen Marry Brunettes," "Man Without a Star" and "The Fastest Gun Alive." Her final film was "Skyjacked" with Charlton Heston. Ms. Crain married actor Paul Brinkman in 1946. Despite a few rocky spots, they were one of those Hollywood couples who made it ‘til death do us part." Prayers of comfort for her family and friends.

MADLYN RHUE Died Dec. 16, 2003

Actress Madlyn Rhue died of pneumonia at age 68. Ms. Rhue battled multiple sclerosis during the last part of her life. Ms. Rhue was a familiar face on TV for nearly 30 years. She continued to work, most notably in "Murder She Wrote," from her wheelchair during the last part of her career. Though mainly a TV actress, Ms. Rhue appeared in the films "It’s a Mad, Mad, Mad, Mad World" and the sexy Lt. Reid in "Operation Petticoat." Ms. Rhue’s had over 120 film and TV credits. Among her credits are "Have Gun, Will Travel," "Fame," "Days of Our Lives," "The Rebel," "Gunsmoke," "Perry Mason," "The Alfred Hitchcock Hour," "The Untouchables," "I Spy," "Rawhide," "The Nurses," "The Fugitive" and "The Man From U.N.C.L.E."

LES TREMAYNE Died Dec. 19, 2003

"War of the Worlds" star Les Tremayne died of heart failure at age 90. Les Tremayne played General Mann in the 1953 classic adaptation of H.G. Wells’ novel. Mr. Tremayne appeared in a number of sci-fi and horror films during the 1950s and 60s. Mr. Tremayne was also a noted voice actor. He was inducted into the Radio Hall of Fame in 1995. Among his credits are "Forbiddon Planet" (voice only), "Rodan" (narrator US version), "King Kong vs. Godzilla" (narrator US version), "The Monolith Monsters," "The Monster of Piedras Blancas," the original version of "The Angry Red Planet," "The Phantom Tollbooth" (voice only), "The Slime People," "Shazam," "Snakes" and "Attack of the B-Movie Monster." Among Mr. Tremayne’s non-genre credits are "The Story of Ruth," "The Shoes of the Fisherman," "The Fortune Cookie," "Goldfinger" (voice only), "It Grows on Trees" and "Francis Goes to West Point." Mr. Tremayne provided voices for "Johnny Quest," "The Smurfs," "Go-Bots," "Scooby Doo," "Mr. Magoo," "Rikki Tiki Tavi" and "Daffy Duck’s Fantastic Island."

HOPE LANGE Died Dec. 19, 2003

Oscar nominated actress Hope Lange died of an infection caused by ischemic colitis at age 72. Ms. Lange received a Best Supporting Actress Oscar nomination for her work in the 1957 soaper "Peyton Place." My first memory of Hope Lange as from the TV series version of "The Ghost and Mrs. Muir." Ms. Lange won two Emmy Awards for her work on that show. Years later I saw the film version of "Peyton Place." It is one of the best adult dramas produced in the 1950s. Hope Lange had a natural beauty. She wasn’t in the same class as Grace Kelly. Rather she had a radiant girl-next-door look. More important, Hope Lange was an excellent actress. She had the range to play light comedy and heavy drama. She made her film debut in "Bus Stop" with Marilyn Monroe and first husband Don Murray. Director Alan J. Pakula was another ex-husband. She played the pre-war love interest of German soldier Marlon Brando in "The Young Lions." In "Wild in the Country" Ms. Lange played a psychiatrist with more than a passing interest in her troubled patient played by Elvis. Ms. Lange appeared in a number of excellent Made for TV movies during the early 1970s. She received an Emmy nomination for her role as Hal Holbrook’s wife in the groundbreaking movie about homosexuality "That Certain Summer." She is also quite good in the spooky "Crowhaven Farm." In 1974 Ms. Lange appeared in one of the most controversial films of the 70s: "Death Wish." She played Charles Bronson’s ill-fated wife. Her murder in that film lead to Bronson’s vigilante spree. David Lynch cast Ms. Lange as Laura Dern’s mother in "Blue Velvet." Other credits include "Just Cause" and "A Clear and Present Danger." Ms. Lange is the mother of actor Christopher Murray.

WAH CHANG Died Dec. 22, 2003

Wah Chang brought great joy and wonder into my life. Not bad considering I never met the man. From an early age, I have loved monster movies, sci-fi films. Anything to do with fantasy kept me enrapt. It still does. Animator Wah Chang died at age 86. Mr. Chang and his partners Gene Warren and Tim Barr created the Oscar winning special effects for the 1960 version of H.G. Wells’ "The Time Machine." Due to the way the credits were submitted to the Academy, Mr. Chang was overlooked at Oscar time while his partners took home the gold. Mr. Chang should have been honored also. Mr. Chang was an extraordinary artist. Mr. Chang designed creatures for a number of films. Jim Danforth brought his dragon to life in the superb "The Seven Faces of Dr. Lao" starring Tony Randall. Mr. Chang added the magic to "The Wonderful World of the Brothers Grimm." Mr. Chang did the wonderful miniature work on the Jules Verne fantasy "Master of the World," which starred Vincent Price and Charles Bronson. Even though it may not hold up well with adult audiences, Mr. Chang’s "Dinosaurus" delighted many kids including myself in the early 1960s. Mr. Chang also designed the dinosaurs for the Saturday morning sci-fi series "Land of the Lost." He also created special effects for the 1968 Michael Rennie vehicle "The Power." Other credits include "Tom Thumb," "Cat Women of the Moon," "The Mephisto Waltz," "Journey to the Seventh Planet," "Voyage to the Planet of Prehistoric Women" and "The Three Bears." Mr. Chang was also an accomplished costume designer. He designed costume for "The King and I," "Can-Can" and Elizabeth Taylor’s headdress in "Cleopatra." Mr. Chang directed the animated film "Magic Pony." Mr. Chang was a sculptor. He sculpted posable models used by the animators on "Bambi" and "Pinocchio." HE also created creatures for the TV series "Star Trek" and "The Outer Limits." CLICK HERE to read an excellent article about Mr. Chang by Don Coleman at The Time Machine Project. Prayers of comfort for his family and friends.

ALAN BATES Died Dec. 27, 2003

"The King of Hearts" was one of the first films to attain Cult Classic status. The movie didn’t touch everyone, but those it did saw it over and over again. Philippe De Broca’s anti war film, set in WWI became a hit with college aged moviegoers during the Vietnam era. I discovered the movie in the early 70s. Much to the annoyance of my friends and family, I tried to spread the word about the movie like some fervent evangelist. Alan Bates played Pvt. Charles Plumpick. Plumpick was sent into a French town to recon the Germans. He is chased into an insane asylum by the Krauts. When questioned as to his identity he replies "I’m the King of Hearts." Plumpick then finds himself being worshipped by the other inmates, all the while, he tries to get word to his troops of an impending trap. It is a wonderful film that still holds up today.

The King is Dead, Long Live the King. British actor Alan Bates died of liver cancer at age 69. Alan Bates was nominated for an Oscar as Best Actor for the 1968 film "The Fixer." He was nominated for six BAFTAs, winning the Best Actor TV Award for "An Englishman Abroad." Mr. Bates won two Tony awards, the first in 1972 in the play "Butley" and the second for his role in the 2002 production of "Fortune’s Fool." Though he appeared in a number of great films, Mr. Bates may be best remembered for his work in Ken Russell’s modern classic "Women in Love."

Among Mr. Bates more than 80 memorable film and TV credits are "The Entertainer" with Laurence Olivier, "Whistle Down the Wind" with Hayley Mills, "Georgy Girl" with Lynn Redgrave," "Zorba the Greek" with Anthony Quinn, "Far From the Madding Crowd" with Julie Christie and Terrence Stamp, "The Rose," with Bette Midler, "Mr. Frost" with Jeff Goldblum, "An Unmmarried Woman" with Jill Clayburgh, "The Mothman Prophecies," Robert Altman’s "Gosford Park" and "The Sum of All Fears."

Mr. Bates was Knighted at the first of this year. He was preceded in death by his 19 year-old-son in 1990 and two years later by his wife. May they have a happy reunion beyond. Prayers of comfort for those left behind.

HELEN KLEEB Died Dec. 28, 2003

Actress Helen Kleeb may be best known for her portrayal of Mamie Baldwin on the long-running TV series "The Waltons." Helen Kleeb passed away just short of her 97^th birthday. Ms. Kleeb appeared in over 100 films and TV episodes during a career that spanned nearly 50 years. She appeared in several of my favorite films. She was Fredric March’s secretary in the original, and superior version of "The Desperate Hours." She also appeared in the Gary Cooper classic "Friendly Persuasion." She turned in a memorable cameo as one of the tea party ladies during the hallucination scenes in the classic "The Manchurian Candidate." Other memorable films from the early 1960s include "The Young Savages," "Hush, Hush, Sweet Charlotte," "Seven Days in May" and "The Fortune Cookie." Other credits include "Fitzwilly" with Dick Van Dyke, Blake Edward’s "The Party" with Peter Sellers, the TV movie "Eleanor and Franklin" and "The Best Little Whorehouse in Texas." Ms. Kleeb appeared on just about every TV series there was during the 1950s through the 70s. A few of her TV credits include "Perry Mason," "Gunsmoke," "Dragnet," "Dennis the Menace," "Barnaby Jones," "Green Acres" and, well the list goes on! No matter what, Ms. Kleeb is fondly remembered by millions for her work on "The Waltons." TV sure has changed!

EARL HINDMAN Died Dec. 29, 2003

Actor Earl Hindman died of lung cancer at age 61. Mr. Hindman played Wilson, Tim Allen’s little seen neighbor on the hit TV series "Home Improvement." Mr. Hindman’s face was well known to fans of the soap opera "Ryan’s Hope." He played Detective Bob Reid for 16 years. I first noticed Mr. Hindman in Alan J. Pakula’s classic thriller "The Parallax View." Mr. Hindman played Red, the homicidal and incredibly stupid deputy that Warren Beatty tangles with in the backwoods of Idaho. Referring to Hindman’s character, another character says "The boy is so dumb that if you move his plate six inches he’d starve to death." Hindman and Beatty take part in one of the great bar fights in movie history. His other film credits include the under rated "Who Killed Mary What’s Her Name?," the original "The Taking of Pelham One, Two, Three," William Friedkin’s overlooked "The Brink’s Job," the TV series "Key West," Lawrence Kasden’s excellent "Silverado," "Taps" with George C. Scott and Timothy Hutton, "Three Men and a Baby," Oliver Stone’s "Talk Radio," "Greased Lightning" with Richard Pryor and the great Made for TV movie "Pueblo" about the capture of the USS Pueblo by the North Koreans during the Vietnam era.

JOHN GREGORY DUNNE Died Dec. 30, 2003

Writer John Gregory Dunne died at age 71 as he was sitting down to dinner with wife and long time screenwriting partner Joan Didon. Mr. Dunne was the brother of Dominick Dunne and the uncle of actors Griffin and the late Dominique Dunne. Mr. Dunne wrote a number of novels, no-fiction books and screenplays. "The Studio" is one of the best books ever written concerning the inner workings of a movie studio. Dunne was given full access by Richard Zanuck to observe life at 20^th Century Fox. His book "Monster: Living Off the Big Screen" examined working in Tinseltown. Mr. Dunne wrote several top-notch screenplays. "Panic in Needle Park" was a tour of hell through the eyes of a pair of heroin addicts. Al Pacino and Kitty Winn starred in the brutal film. Mr. Dunne and wife Joan Didon adapted Ms. Didon’s novel "Play it as it Lays" to the screen. Tuesday Weld starred in that 1970s journey through the fringe of Hollywood. Didon and Dunne also adapted "A Star is Born" for the Barbra Streisand version of the film. Mr. Dunne wrote the novel "True Confessions" as an expose of the Catholic Church by way of a detective novel. "True Confessions" used elements of the unsolved Black Dahlia murder case. Robert DeNiro and Robert Duvall starred in the film version. Prayers of comfort for his family and friends.

PAULA RAYMOND Died Dec. 31, 2003

Actress Paula Raymond died at age 79. Ms. Raymond played the female lead in my all-time favorite ‘Monster Movie.’ Ms. Raymond co-starred with Ken Tobey, Paul Hubschmid (aka Paul Christian) and Cecil Kellaway in "The Beast from 20,000 Fathoms." "Beast" was Ray Harryhausen’s breakthrough film. Ms. Raymond played the protégé of paleontologist Cecil Kellaway in the film based on the Ray Bradbury short story "The Fog Horn." Ms. Raymond has a successful career in both film and TV. She was a familiar face on the small screen during the 1950s. She appeared in a number of TV series, especially in TV Westerns. He TV credits include "Perry Mason," "Maverick," "Have Gun-Will Travel," "Bat Masterson," "Peter Gunn," "M Squad" and "The Man from U.N.C.L.E." Ms. Raymond’s film credits include "Adam’s Rib," "East Side, West Side," "The Human Jungle" and "Dracula’s Castle." Ms. Raymond underwent a number of tragedies in her life including a near-fatal car accident, which severed her nose, years of reconstructive surgery, and the death of her daughter. Ms. Raymond was hired for the soap opera "The Days of Our Lives" in 1977. Again tragedy struck as she broke her leg in a fall and had to leave the show.

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