MAY 2008 FILM WORLD OBITUARIES

JIM HAGER Died May 1, 2008

Singer and comedian Jim Hager died of a heart attack in Nashville. Mr. Hager and his twin brother Jon gained fame on the surprise hit TV series "Hee Haw." The Hagers were regulars on the show for nearly 20 years! They were also successful country recording artists with five song which charted. The Hagers performed live with many top musical acts over the past 40 years. Jim and his brother starred in the 1976 ABC TV movie "Twin Detectives" opposite Lillian Gish!

BERNARD ARCHARD Died May 1, 2008

British character actor Bernard Archard died at age 91. Mr. Archer appeared in nearly 100 films and TV shows during his lengthy career. Sci-Fi fans remember Mr. Archard for his roles in two of the "Dr. Who" TV series. Mr. Archard's many credits include "Emmerdale Farm," "Keeping Up Appearances," "God's Outlaw: The Story of William Tyndale," "King Solomon's Mines," "Krull," "Inside the Third Reich," "Rumpole of the Bailey," "Philby, Burgess and Maclean," "The Hiding Place," "The Day of the Jackal," "Dixon of Dock Green," "The Horror of Frankenstein," "Song of Norway," "Z Cars," "The Avengers," "Play Dirty," "The Spy with a Cold Nose," "The Edgar Wallace Mystery Theatre," "Village of the Damned" and "Corridors of Blood."

TERRY DUGGAN Died May 1, 2008

British comedian and actor Terry Duggan died at age 76. Mr. Duggan enjoyed success on stage, in variety shows as well as in film and TV. He was well known for his Drunk Act. Mr. Duggan played the ape man attacked by the leopard in Stanley Kubrick's classic "2001: A Space Odyssey." Mr. Duggan's many film and TV credits include "The X-Files," "Murder by Decree," "What's Up Nurse!," "Schizo," "Dixon of Dock Green," "On the Buses" and "The Horror of Frankenstein."

BEVERLEE MCKINSEY Died May 2, 2008

Actress Beverlee McKinsey died of complications following a kidney transplant at age 72. Ms. McKinsey was best known for her portrayal of the soap opera diva Iris Carrington on the hit series "Another World." Ms. Mckinsey enjoyed success not only on the small screen but also on Broadway and in film. She starred opposite Robert Redford in the Broadway production of Neil Simon's "Barefoot in the Park." He other films and TV credits include "General Hospital," "The Guiding Light," "Remington Steele," "The Demon Murder Case," "Texas," Clint Eastwood's "Bronco Billy," "Cannon," "The Mod Squad," "The Delphi Bureau," "McMillan & Wife," "Longstreet," "The F.B.I. ," "Death Valley Days," "Hawaii Five-O," "The Virginian," "Mannix," "The Defenders" and "The Nurses."

TED KEY Died May 3, 3008

Cartoonist Ted Key died of cancer at age 95. Mr. Key created such memorable characters as "Hazel" and "Mr. Peabody and Sherman." The "Hazel" cartoon strip was turned in a hit TV series starring Shirley Booth in the title role. Ms. Booth won two Emmy Awards for her portrayal as the feisty maid to the Baxter family. "Mr. Peabody and Sherman" were popular characters with their own segment on the cartoon series "The Adventures of Rocky and Bullwinkle." He also wrote screenplays. Mr. Key's script for "Digby: The Biggest Dog in the World" came from his "Hazel" cartoons. It should have remained on paper. Mr. Key also wrote screenplays for several Disney films. His writing credits include "Million Dollar Duck," "The Cat from Outer Space" and "Gus."

DICK MCDONOUGH Died May 3, 2008

TV director and producer Dick McDonough died at age 84. He produced the TV game show "It Takes Two." Mr. McDonough directed numerous TV shows including "Death Valley Days," "Liar's Club," "Celebrity Sweepstakes," "Don Rickles: Alive and Kicking," "The Bob Hope Christmas Special: Around the World with the USO" and "The Jimmy Durante Show."

ALVIN COLT Died May 4, 2008

Tony-winning and Emmy nominated costume designer Alvin Colt died at age 92. Mr. Colt worked on over 50 Broadway plays during his lengthy career. He won a Tony for the 1956 production of "Pipe Dream." Mr. Colt was nominated for four Emmy Awards including two for the series "The Adams Chronicles." Mr. Colt's other film and TV credits include "Happy 100th Birthday, Hollywood," "CBS: On the Air," "Kiss Me Kate," "Li'l Abner" and "Top Banana."

FRED HAINES Died May 4, 2008

Clint Eastwood's tagline in the "Dirty Harry" sequel "Magnum Force" was 'A man's got to know his limitations.' One of my limitations is the fact that I was not able to get through more than a chapter or so of James Joyce's complex novel "Ulysses." Fred Haines must have been one smart man, because he not only read and understood the book, he also adapted the book to the screen! Fred Haines and Joseph Strick shared an Oscar nomination for their adaptation of the unfilmable book. Fred Haines also served as associate producer on the film. While I had trouble reading Joyce, I've always loved the work of Herman Hesse. In 1974 Mr. Haines adapted and directed the film version of Hesse's "Steppenwolf." Max Von Sydow starred in the flawed, but still interesting movie. Fred Haines died of lung cancer at age 72.

DOMINIC BELMONTE Died May 4, 2008

Property master Dominic Belmonte died at age 78. Mr. Belmonte was a member of I.A.T.S.E. Local #44. His many credits include "Perfect Strangers," "Falcon Crest" and Blake Edwards' "S.O.B."

JERRY WALLACE Died May 5, 2008

Singer Jerry Wallace died of congestive heart failure at age 79. Mr. Wallace enjoyed success as both a Pop and Country singer. His hits include "Primrose Lane" and "If You Leave Me Tonight, I'll Cry." His songs were used on the soundtracks of "Night Gallery," "Flipper's New Adventure" and "Goodbye Charlie."

WONG YUE Died May 5, 2008

Kung Fu star Wong Yue died at age 53. Mr. Yue rose to fame in the Kung Fu genre following his role in the 1975 film "The Spiritual Boxer." Mr. Yue appeared in over 50 films during his career. His many credits include "Hong Kong 1841," "The Big Sting," "Dirty Ho," "Spiritual Boxer II," "Shaolin Master Killer," "Shaolin Executioners" and "The Flying Guillotine."

BEVERLY ROWLAND Died May 7, 2008

Actress Beverly Rowland died at age 79. Ms. Rowland appeared in several films made by the Mormon Church. She also appeared in other feature films and TV shows. Her credits include "A Loss of Innocence," "Neon City," "The Nearly Wasn't Christmas," "Halloween 4: The Return of Michael Myers," "Berserker," "Side by Side: The True Story of the Osmond Family" and "Harry in Your Pocket."

SHUJI NOZAWA Died May 7, 2008

Actor/stuntman/wrestler/real-estate tycoon Shuji Nozawa died of pancreatic cancer at age 86. Mr. Nozawa was an American born citizen of Japanese descent. He was interned at Manzanar during WWII. He then served his country in the US Army! Mr. Nozawa was a successful real-estate developer in California. He wrestled professionally under the name Fuji. His acting credits include "The King and I," "Wackiest Ship in the Army," "Beverly Hillbillies," "Mission: Impossible," "The Wrecking Crew," "The Time Tunnel" and "Superchick."

LYDIA BRUCE Died May 7, 2008

Actress Lydia Bruce died. He age was not given. Ms. Bruce appeared in the 1961 Broadway production of "A Call on Kuprin." She was best known for her role as Dr. Maggie Powers on the soap opera "The Doctors." Her other credits include "Law & Order," "The Guiding Light" and "Hawaii Five-O."

EDDY ARNOLD Died May 8, 2008

Country music legend Eddy Arnold died at age 89. Mr. Arnold enjoyed success as both a Country and a Pop singer. He was known as the Tennessee Plowboy. He had 27 number 1 hit records during his lengthy career. Among his best known songs are "You Don't Know Me," "Make the World Go Away" and "Cattle Call." He hosted two TV series: "Eddy Arnold Time" and "The Eddy Arnold Show." Mr. Arnold's music was used on the soundtracks of numerous films including "Clambake," "Melvin and Howard," "Nurse Betty," "Howard Stern's Private Parts," "Groundhog Day," "Bad Santa" and "Ray." He appeared in the movies "Feudin' Rhythm" and "Hoedown." Mr. Arnold was inducted into the Country Music Hall of Fame in 1966.

LUIGI MALERBA Died May 8, 2008

Italian writer/director Luigi Malerba died at age 81. Mr. Malbera wrote over 30 films during his lifetime. He directed two films: "Women and Soldiers" and the documentary "Corrida!" Mr. Malbera's screenplay credits include "L' Invasion," "The Girl and the General," "Adultery Italian Style" and "The Devil Is a Woman."

DOROTHY GREEN Died May 8, 2008

Actress Dorothy Green died of a heart attack at age 79. The beautiful actress appeared in nearly 100 films and TV shows. Ms. Green was the ex-wife of actor Sidney Miller and the mother of actor Barry Miller. She made her film debut in Fritz Lang's Film Noir classic "The Big Heat." Ms. Green's other film credits include "Them!," "Whirlybirds," "The Helen Morgan Story," "Perry Mason," "It Happened at the World's Fair," "Zebra in the Kitchen," "The F.B.I.," "Suppose They Gave a War and Nobody Came?," "The Young and the Restless" and "The Love Boat."

PATRICIA GRISSMER Died May 9, 2008

Film and play producer Patricia Vollmar Grissmer died of cancer at age 67. She was the wife of writer/director John Grissmer. The husband and wife team produced the 1970s horror movies "The House that Cried Murder" and the kinky "Scalpel." Mr. Grissmer wrote both films and directed "Scalpel."

OSWALDO CALVO Died May 9, 2008

Cuban actor Oswaldo Calvo died at age 76. Mr. Calvo began acting in his native land. He continued his career in Mexico and the US after going into exile following the communist takeover of Cuba. Mr. Calvo's credits include "The Arturo Sandoval Story," "Fires Within," "Last Plane Out," "Absence of Malice" and "Cuba Crossing."

ZEKIAL MARKO Died May 9, 2008

Writer Zekial Marko died of emphysema at age 74. Mr. Marko wrote a number of crime novels under the name John Trinian. His novel "Scratch a Thief" was turned into the 1965 film "Once a Thief." His other credits include "The Rockford Files," "Kolchak: The Night Stalker," "Toma" and "Any Number Can Win." Mr. Marko also acted in "The Rockford Files" and "Once a Thief." In "Once a Thief" Mr. Marko played a guy busted for pot who shares a cell with Alain Delon's character. Mr. Marko did not show up for filming at the LA County jail when it was time to shoot the scene. Director Ralph Nelson was upset and had an assistant try and find a replacement. Turns out that Marko was on location afterall. He was incarcerated for a real marijuana bust the previous night! Marko was released from his cell to film the scene and then returned to his cell afterwards!

JESSICA JACOBS Died May 10, 2008

Australian Jessie Jacobs was killed when she fell off a train station platform into the path of a train. The 17-year-old actress played Melanie, the little sister of star Lara Jean Marshall on the TV series "The Saddle Club." Ms. Jacobs also appeared in such TV shows as "Worst Best Friends," "Fergus McPhail" and "Holly's Heroes." Prayers of comfort for her family and friends.

DOTTIE RAMBO Died May 11, 2008

Gospel songwriter and recording artist Dottie Rambo was killed when her tour bus crashed in Missouri. The 74-year-old singer/composer wrote over 2,500 songs which have been recorded by a wide range of artists including Elvis and Whitney Huston. Ms. Rambo was one of the most prolific composers in Gospel music. She was the subject of the documentary "We Shall Behold Him: A Tribute to Dottie Rambo." Whitney Huston sang one of her songs in the 1996 film "The Preacher's Wife." Ms. Rambo was inducted into the Gospel Music Hall of Fame.

CHRIS GAMPEL Death announced May 11, 2008

Actor Chris Gampell died at age 87. The Canadian born actor played bit parts in a number of films and TV shows. He also worked on Broadway. Mr. Gampel's many TV and film credits include "Law & Order: Criminal Intent," "Ed," "Quincy M.E.," "Annie Hall," "Death Wish," "Route 66," "The Naked City," "Studio One" and Hitchcock's "The Wrong Man." Mr. Gampel's Broadway credits include "The Girl Who Came to Supper," "Compulsion," "Saint Joan" and "King Richard II."

RICHARD SUTCLIFFE Died May 11, 2008

Richard Sutcliffe died of complications of a stroke at age 90. Mr. Sutcliffe co-created the children's TV show "Davey and Goliath." Mr. Sutcliffe was the director of the Lutheran Church's radio and TV ministry when he approached the creators of "The Gumby and Pokey Show" about creating a religious children's show. Art and Ruth Clokley, the creators of "Gumby" worked with Mr. Sutcliffe on the development of "Davey and Goliath." Mr. Sutcliffe's show mixed God's word with entertainment. I didn't grow up in a religious household. "Davey and Goliath" was about the only Sunday School I got in the first ten years of my life. Like many people my age, I have fond memories of the boy Davey and his dog Goliath. Mr. Sutcliffe's show planted seeds in the lives of millions of children. May he rest in peace.

JOHN FRIEDKIN Died May 11, 2008

Publicist and associate producer John Friedkin died of respiratory failure at age 81. Mr. Friedkin was the publicist for "Babe" and its sequel "Babe: Pig in the City." Mr. Friedkin was an associate producer on the film "Lorenzo's Oil." Mr. Friedkin's son Jay is an Oscar nominated film editor.

JEFF HALEY JR. Died May 11, 2008

Emmy-nominated set decorator Jeff Haley Jr. died at age 75. Mr. Haley shared two Emmy nominations for his work on the miniseries "The Kennedys of Massachusetts" and "War and Remembrance." His other credits include "Undercover Blues," "Danielle Steel's Secrets," "Tough Guys," "Beverly Hills Cop," "Swing Shift," "The Great Santini," "Thank God It's Friday" and "The Boy in the Plastic Bubble." Mr. Haley was a member of I.A.T.S.E. Local #44.

GERALD SHEPARD Died May 11, 2008

Editor and producer Gerald Shepard died at age 82. Mr. Shepard edited Bob Rafelson's Oscar-nominated "Five Easy Pieces." He also worked with Mr. Rafelson editing the musical scenes in the Monkees' movie "Head." Mr. Shepard was an associate producer and editor on a number of episodes of the TV series "The Monkees." He also edited a number of episodes of "The Addams Family."

CLAUDIO UNDARI Died May 12, 2008

Italian actor Claudio Undari died at age 73. Mr. Undari acted under the name Robert Hundar in numerous genre films. He began his career in such Sword and Sandal films as "Hercules' Revenge," "Marco Polo" and "The Terror of Rome Against the Son of Hercules." He then starred or appeared in numerous Spaghetti Westerns. Most notable credits include the first "Sabata" film with Lee Van Cleef and "Cut-Throats Nine." During the 1970s Mr. Undari turned up in numerous crime dramas.

ROBERT RUSSELL Died May 12, 2008

British actor Robert Russell died of a heart attack at age 71. Mr. Russell was best known for his role as Vincent Price's henchman in Michael Reeve's horror classic "The Witchfinder General." He played the deadly sin Anger in the original version of "Bedazzled." Mr. Russell appeared on stage in "Othello" with Laurence Olivier, Michael Gambon and Maggie Smith. Mr. Russell appeared in over 60 films and TV shows. His credits include "Inspector Clouseau," "Man in the Wilderness" and "Dr. Who."

BURTON ZUCKER Died May 12, 2008

Burton Zucker, the father of filmmakers Jerry and David Zucker died at age 91. Mr. Zucker was a successful real-estate developer. The world owes him thanks for his children's gift of humor. He appeared in bit parts in his son's films "My Best Friend's Wedding," "High School High," "First Knight," "Naked Gun 33 1/3: The Final Insult," "The Naked Gun 2½," "The Naked Gun: From the Files of Police Squad!" and "Top Secret!"

JOHN PHILLIP LAW Died May 13, 2008

Actor John Phillip Law died at age 70. There is debate among Ray Harryhausen fans as which of his films is the best. While many feel "Jason and the Argonauts" is his best work, I fall into "The Golden Voyage of Sinbad" camp. "The Golden Voyage of Sinbad" features some of Harryhausen's greatest special effects. The something extra that makes the film Harryhauseen's best in my opinion is actor John Phillip Law's performance as Sinbad. Kerwin Matthews' Sinbad in Harryhausen's "7th Voyage of Sinbad" was a one-dimensional cartoon character when compared to Law's later performance. John Phillip Law was an American, but he played Sinbad as an Arab. He imbued the character with humor and humanity as well as the expected heroic qualities. I love his catch phrase from the movie: 'Trust in Allah, but tie up your camel.'

John Phillip Law is best known for his role as Pygar, the blind angel in Roger Vadim's sexy sci-fi film "Barbarella." He was nominated for a Golden Globe for his comedic performance in Norman Jewison's 1966 Oscar-nominated "The Russians Are Coming, The Russians Are Coming." He co-starred with Rod Steiger in John Flynn's powerful "The Sergeant." Mr. Law was multilingual which allowed him to find work in Europe as well as in the US. John Phillip Law worked with Otto Preminger in "Hurry Sundown" and the totally bizarre "Skidoo." His European work in the 1960s includes Mario Bava's "Diabolik" and the Spaghetti Western "Death Rides a Horse" with Lee Van Cleef.

During the 1970s Mr. Law appeared in 17 films. For me, the apex of his career came with 1974's "The Golden Voyage of Sinbad." He played the lead in the box-office disaster "The Love Machine." He was part of the all-star thriller "The Cassandra Crossing." Dennis Hopper cast him in his indie flick "The Last Movie." Other credits from the 70s include "The Hawaiians," in the title role of Roger Corman's "The Red Baron," "Target of an Assassin" with Anthony Quinn and the excellent B-movie "Open Season."

John Phillip Law worked steady to the end of his life. Most of his work was in action/adventure films. One of his best films was the 1982 WWII movie "Attack Force Z." Law headlined opposite newcomer Mel Gibson in the tale of an Australian commando force rescuing survivors of a plane crash from Japanese forces. Sam Neill also starred in this excellent movie. Mr. Law was one of the unfortunate cast members in the Bo Derek version of "Tarzan the Ape Man."

ROSARIO PRESTOPINO Died May 13, 2008

Italian make-up artist Rosario Prestopino died of a heart attack at age . Mr. PRestopino worked on five films for goremeister Lucio Fulci. Their collaborations include "The New York Ripper," "Zombie" and "The Black Cat." Auteur Dario Argento called on Mr. Prestopino's artistry for his 1987 film "Opera." Mario Bava's son Lamberto collaborated with Mr. Prestopino on four films including the two "Demons" films. Mr. Prestopino worked on over 40 films during his career.

JILL ADAMS Died May 13, 2008

British actress Jill Adams died of cancer at age 77. Ms. Adams was promoted as the British answer to Marilyn Monroe. She appeared in nearly 30 films and TV shows during the 1959s and 60s. Her credits include "The Green Man," "Carry On Constable," "The Constant Husband" and "Promise Her Anything."

GARY ALLISON Died May 13, 2008

Writer/producer Gary Allison died of a heart attack at age 69. Mr. Allison co-founded the Utah/US Film Festival with Robert Redford. The festival grew and turned into Sundance. Mr. Allison produced the 1977 film "Fraternity Row." The Los Angeles Film Critics gave Mr. Allison a Special Award for his initiative in organizing the production of "Fraternity Row" and thus opening a gateway into professional film production for advanced cinema students. Mr. Allison also produced "Who Shot Mamba?" and "The First Olympics: Athens 1896."

JOHN FORBES-ROBERTSON Died May 14, 2008

British actor John Forbes-Robertson died at age 80. Mr. Forbes-Robertson was best known for several horror film roles. He played Count Dracula in the final Hammer Dracula film "The Legend of the 7 Golden Vampires." He starred ooposite Peter Cushing who once again played Professor Van Helsing. Mr. Forbes-Robertson also had a supporting role in Hammer's "The Vampire Lovers." Horror fans also remember Mr. Forbes-Robertson from the E.C. Comics horror film "Vault of Horror." Other film and TV roles include "QBVII," "The Baby and the Battleship," "Bunny Lake is Missing," "Nicholas and Alexandra" and "The Far Pavillions."

FRITH BANBURY Died May 14, 2008

British actor Frith Banbury died at age 94. Mr. Banbury's credits include "The Life and Death of Colonel Blimp" and the 1938 British TV show "Goodness, How Sad!"

DEL ANKERS Died May 15, 2008

Documentary filmmaker and cinematographer Del ankers died at age 91. Mr. Ankers was a Washington DC based photographer. He photographer a number of US Presidents. Mr. Ankers was an early associate of "Muppet" creator Jim Henson. Mr. Ankers filmed several of Henson's early commercial projects including the twisted 1965 short film "Wilson Meats Meeting Film #1." Mr. Ankers also appeared in the short film.

ALEXANDER COURAGE Died May 15, 2008

Oscar-nominated composer and orchestrator Alexander Courage died at age 88. Mr. Courage was best known for composing the theme to the original TV series "Star Trek." He shared two Oscar-nominations with Lionel Newman for the films "The Pleasure Seekers" and the original "Dr. Dolittle." Mr. Courage was also nominated for three Emmy awards, winning once for "Julie Andrews: The Sound of Christmas." Mr. Courage worked on over 100 films and TV shows. His many credits include "The Left Handed Gun," "Lost in Space," "The Waltons," "Annie Get Your Gun," "Seven Brides for Seven Brothers," "Kismet," "Raintree County," "My Fair Lady," "The Agony and the Ecstasy," "Superman IV," "Basic Instinct," "Lionheart," "L.A. Confidential," "Air Force One" and "Mulan."

LAURA SHELTON Died May 15, 2008

Actress Laura Shelton (real name Carol Monson) died of complications from Crohn's Disease at age 73. Ms. Shelton was the ex-wife of director Carl Monson. Her acting credits include "Wagon Train," "Harrigan and Son," "The Detectives," "The Beverly Hillbillies," "My Favorite Martian," "Have Gun, Will Travel," "Death Valley Days," "FBI Code 98" and "Miami Undercover."

SANDY HOWARD Died May 16, 2008

Producer, director Sandy Howard died of Alzheimer's Disease at age 80. Mr. Howard began his career in the early days of television. He directed episodes of "The Howdy Doody Show" while still a teenager. Mr. Howard produced "The Captain Kangaroo Show." He produced a number of feature films including Richard Harris' hit "A Man Called Horse." Other producer credits include the remake of "The Island of Dr. Moreau," "Blue Monkey," "Hollywood Vice Squad," the chilling true-crime film "The Boys Next Door," "What Waits Below," "Meteor," "The Return of a Man Called Horse," "Embryo," the cool B-movie "Sky Riders," the notoriously bad horror film "The Devil's Rain," "The Neptune Factor" and "Night Court U.S.A."

PETER GLEN Died May 18, 2008

Canadian actor Peter Glen died at age 77. Mr. Glen worked on stage and in film. Mr. Glen was known for his tribute to poet Robert Burns. He performed the show for 38 years. Mr. Glen's film and TV credits include "To Die For" and "Road to Avonlea."

JOSEPH PEVNEY Died May 18, 2008

Director Joseph Pevney died at age 96. Mr. Pevney began his career as an actor on Broadway and in film. Mr. Pevney appeared in eight Broadway productions during the 1940s. He also directed two productions. His film acting credits include the boxing classic "Body and Soul." Mr. Pevney directed over 80 films and TV shows. He directed 14 episodes of the original "Star Trek" series including the famous "The Trouble With Tribbles" episode. Mr. Pevney's film credits include "Away All Boats," the Lon Chaney Sr. biopic "The Man of a Thousand Faces," "Female on the Beach" and "Portrait of a Mobster." Mr. Pevney's many TV credits include "Trapper John, M.D.," "Little House on the Prairie," "The Rockford Files," "The Incredible Hulk," "The Paper Chase," "Fantasy Island," "Emergency!," the TV movie "Who Is the Black Dahlia?," "Bonanza," "Cade's County," "Adam-12," "Mission: Impossible," "12 O'Clock High," "The Munsters," "The Big Valley," "The Alfred Hitchcock Hour," "Bewitched," "Wagon Train" and "Ben Casey."

NICK ARCHER Died May 18, 2008

Emmy-nominated film editor Nick Archer died at age 81. Mr. Archer was a member of the Editor's Guild for 54 years. He received an Emmy for his work on the excellent TV movie "Raid on Entebbe." Mr. Archer's many credits include "Climb an Angry Mountain," "The Magic Garden of Stanley Sweetheart," "The Bold Ones: The New Doctors," "Downhill Racer" and as an assistant editor on "What Ever Happened to Baby Jane?" and "Pocketful of Miracles."

DONALD MURPHY Died May 19, 2008

Actor Donald Murphy died at age 90. Mr. Murphy appeared in eight Broadway productions during the 1940s and 50s. He won the Theater World Award in 1945. Mr. Murphy starred as Dr. Otto Frank in the campy 1958 cult classic "Frankenstein's Daughter." He had a supporting role in George Axelrod's classic "Lord Love a Duck." Other credits include "Swamp Girl," "Get Smart," "Perry Mason," "One Step Beyond," "Bat Masterson," "The Life and Legend of Wyatt Earp," "Whirlybirds," "On the Threshold of Space," "Shack Out on 101," "The Millionaire" and "The Bamboo Prison."

LAWRENCE ROMAN Died May 19, 2008

Writer Lawrence Roman died of a stroke and kidney failure at age 86. Mr. Roman wrote and produced the John Wayne cop thriller "McQ." He wrote three Broadway plays including "Under the You-Yum Tree." That play was turned into a 1963 film. Film Noir and crime film fans remember Mr. Roman for the screenplays of "A Kiss Before Dying," "Slaughter on Tenth Avenue," "Naked Alibi" and "Vice Squad." Other credits include "Paper Lion," Charles Bronson's "Red Sun," the excellent true-crime TV movie "Badge of the Assassin," "The Swinger" and "The Virginian."

IONA BANKS Died May 19, 2008

Welsh actress Iona Banks died at age 87. Ms. Banks was an original cast member of the Welsh-language soap opera "People of the Valley." The show, which began in 1974 is the longest running BBC soap opera. Ms. Banks other credits include "Campion," "The Magnificent Evans" and "The Life and Times of David Lloyd George."

JACK DUFFY Died May 19, 2008

Canadian actor and singer Jack Duffy died at age 81. Mr. Duffy was best known in Canada as a regular on "The Party Show." The Charades game show ran for 11 seasons. Mr. Duffy appeared or did voice work in over 60 films and TV shows. He was the narrator on the animated TV series "Curious George." Mr. Duffy hosted his own TV show "Here's Duffy" during the 1950s. He played a supporting role in the excellent thriller "The Silent Partner." Mr. Duffy's other credits include "Queer as Folk" the remake of "The In-Laws," "RoboCop: Prime Directives," "Universal Soldier III," "Road to Avonlea," "Maniac Mansion," "Friday the 13th: The Series," "SCTV" and "The Wayne and Shuster Hour."

BARBARA SEARS ROCKEFELLER Died May 19, 2008

Former actress Barbara Sears Rockefeller died at age 91. Ms. Rockefeller was the mother of Winthrop Rockefeller Jr. She was briefly married to Oil tycoon Winthrop Rockefeller during the late 1940s and early 1950s. She acted under the name Barbara Sears. Her film credits include "Nob Hill," "Bad Men of the Border" and "Code of the Lawless."

ROY ROSSOTTI Died May 19, 2008

Assistant art director and director Roy Rossotti died at age 76. Mr. Rossotti was an assistant art director on David Lean's classic "Lawrence of Arabia." Mr. Rossotti directed an episode of "The Avengers." He was a second unit director on Lean's classic "Dr. Zhivago." Mr. Rossotti's other credits include "The World of Suzie Wong" and "Two Way Stretch."

JAMES DRURY JR. Died May 19, 2008

Scenic carpenter and construction coordinator James Drury Jr. died at age 48. Mr. Drury worked on such films and TV shows as "From Dusk Till Dawn," "Four Rooms," "Blonde Heaven," HBO's excellent "And the Band Played On" and "Love Bites." Mr. Drury was a member of I.A.T.S.E. Local #44.

MARGOT BOYD Death announced May 20, 2008

British actress Margot Boyd died at age 94. Ms. Boyd was best known in the UK for her role on the long-running BBC Radio show "The Archers." Ms. Boyd played the character Mrs. Antrobus for 20 years. Her film and TV credits include "Play for Today," "Upstairs, Downstairs," "Dixon of Dock Green" and "Our Miss Pemberton."

BERT ANDRE Died May 21, 2008

Dutch actor Bert Andre died of leukemia and a brain hemorrhage at age 66. He appeared in over 130 films and TV shows. Mr. Andre played supporting roles in Paul Verhoeven's "Turkish Delights" and "Soldier of Orange."

JOHN MARRONE III Died May 21, 2008

Transportation coordinator John Marrone III died at age 61. Mr. Marrone worked on a number of films and TV shows including "Shooter," "Rocky Balboa," "Lady in the Water," "Annapolis," "Signs," "Unbreakable," "The Sixth Sense," "Beloved," "Philadelphia" and "Mannequin."

EVELYN MORIARTY Died May 21, 2008

Actress and show-girl Evelyn Moriarty has died. Her age was not given. Ms. Moriarty is best remembered for being Marilyn Monroe's stand-in during the final part of Ms. Monroe's career. Ms. Moriarty worked on the Monroe films "Something's Got to Give," "The Misfits" and "Let's Make Love." The photo at right of Ms. Moriarty (glasses) and Ms. Monroe was taken on the set of "The Misfits." She appeared in several TV documentaries about Ms. Monroe. They include "Marilyn Monroe: The Final Days," "E! Mysteries & Scandals" and A&E's "Biography" episode "Marilyn Monroe: The Mortal Goddess." Ms. Moriarty was a show-girl with the Earl Carroll Vanities. She also acted in several films including "Movie Movie," the original version of "Around the World in Eighty Days," "The Reckless Moment," "Suspense" and "Song of the Open Road."

Actress Nanci Meek shared her memories of Ms. Moriarty with me: What a precious lady. She also stood in for Ann Margret and was good friends with her. Everyone loved Evelyn. And the stories? Wow! Tasteful but interesting nonetheless. She was a true "Lady" when it came to gossip. I worked with Evelyn for many years while I worked Standin and when I had a part on the series "Down Home." I always made sure she was on the List of extras. This was in the 80's and 90's. She was a special lady. Unfortunately during the last few years she worked she was almost blind and would tell me to be sure and say hello. God Bless her for continuing to work in a business she loved so much.

HARRY LANGE Died May 22, 2008

Twice Oscar-nominated and BAFTA winning art director Harry Lange died at age 77. The former NASA illustrator was hired by Stanley Kubrick to design the look for "2001: A Space Odyssey." Mr. Lange won the BAFTA for art direction for the film. He was also nominated for his first Oscar for "2001." Mr. Lange received a second Oscar nomination for "The Empire Strikes Back." Mr. Lange's other credits include "Z.P.G.," "Star Wars," "Kelly's Heroes," "Return of the Jedi," "Moonraker," "The Dark Crystal," "Monty Python's The Meaning of Life" and "Superman II."

DONALD B. HYATT Died May 22, 2008

Emmy-nominated TV producer Donald Hyatt passed away. His age was not given. Mr. Hyatt was a producer for the NBC TV network. He wrote, produced and directed episodes of the documentary series "Project XX." Many of the historical TV episodes are available on DVD. Mr. Hyatt pioneered the type of historical documentary TV which Ken Burns would use 30 years later. He was nominated for an Emmy for the 1954 "He is Risen" episode of "Project XX." Mr. Hyatt also for "The Dupont Show of the Week."

FLOYD SMITH Died May 22, 2008

Property master Floyd Smith died at age 73. Mr. Smith's film and TV credits include "Bonnie & Clyde: The True Story," "A Killing in a Small Town," "Pancho Barnes," "Kansas" and the Chuck Norris thriller "Silent Rage." He also worked as a set decorator on "Tough Enough."

TANO CIMAROSA Died May 23, 2008

Italian actor/director Tano Cimarose died at age 86. Mr. Cimarosa appeared in three films by director Giuseppe Tornatore including "Cinema Paradiso." Mr. Cimarosa directed and starred in the 1977 crime thriller "Death Hunt." He appeared in over 50 films including "Bread and Chocolate," "The Sicilian Connection" and "Café Express."

ROBERT KNOX Died May 24, 2008

18-year-old British actor Robert Knox was murdered when he came to the defense of his younger brother in a bar fight. Mr. Knox was stabbed in the chest and died at the scene. He was the 9th London teen to be stabbed to death this year. Mr. Knox had finished filming his scenes for "Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince" the previous Tuesday. He was signed to reprise his role as Marcus Belby in "Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows: Part 1." Mr. Knox had also appeared in "King Arthur," "After You've Gone," "The Bill" and "Trust Me, I'm a Teenager." Prayers of comfort for his family and friends.

ROBERT CALHOUN Died May 24, 2008

Emmy-winning producer Robert Calhoun died of lung cancer at age 77. Mr. Calhoun was nominated for eight Daytime Emmy Awards. He won for the Soap Opera "As the World Turns." Mr. Calhoun's other credits include "The Guiding Light," "Another World" and "Texas." Mr. Calhoun was the life-partner of actor Farley Granger.

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DICK MARTIN Died May 25, 2008

Emmy-winning comedian, actor, director, producer Dick Martin died of respiratory failure at age 86. He was married to Playboy playmate and "Beyond the Valley of the Dolls" star Dolly Read. Dick Martin and comedy partner Dan Rowan changed the face of TV with the inventive and original hit series "Laugh-In." The show became the number one TV series in the nation during its first season in 1968. It ran until 1973. The picture shows Dan Rowan (left) and Dick Martin (Right) announcing their weekly 'Fickle Finger of Fate' award. "Rowan & Martin's Laugh In" launched the careers of many talented people including Lily Tomlin, Goldie Hawn, Artie Johnson, Tiny Tim, Ruth Buzzi, Flip Wilson and Henry Gibson. Dick Martin and Dan Rowen were nominated for four Emmy awards, winning in 1969.

"Laugh-In" was such an inspiration to me. I had a very progressive 5th grade teacher. Mrs. Upchurch taught 5th grade at the Scenic Hills Elementary School. She took a Montessori approach to things. Mrs. Upchurch also encouraged creativity and the performing arts. Every Friday was our day to express ourselves through skits, music or whatever. Many in the class (myself included) would perform the sketches we saw on that week's "Laugh-In." I used the Artie Johnson/Ruth Buzzi skits as an excuse to talk to girls in the class that I liked. I've always wondered what happened to Mrs. Upchurch.

"Laugh-In" and "The Smothers Brothers Show" reset the boundaries in TV in 1968. The variety show format incorporated a hipper sensibility and more political awareness. While it seems no big deal to have a presidential candidate appear on a TV talk show today, it was unheard of when Richard Nixon appeared on "Laugh-In" and proclaimed "Sock it to…me?"

Dick Martin was the Peck's bad boy of the Rowan and Martin duo. Dan Rowen was the sophisticate who had to hold Martin back, like a dog on a leash wanting to tear up the neighborhood. Their act on "Laugh-In" had been refined after years of performing together in clubs around the world. They paid their dues and became Las Vegas headliners in the mid 1950s. Rowan and Martin did their act on countless TV shows during the 1950s and 60s. In 1958 the pair starred in their first film "Once Upon a Horse." The Western comedy marked Mary Tyler Moore's film debut. Following the success if "Laugh-In" Rowen and Martin starred in the horror comedy "The Maltese Bippy." Was the movie bad? You bet your sweet Bippy it was! Dick Martin acted in a number of films and TV shows without Dan Rowan. They include "Two Guys, a Girl and a Pizza Place," "Diagnosis Murder," "3rd Rock from the Sun," "The Love Boat," "Zero to Sixty," "The Glass Bottom Boat," "The Lucy Show" and "Father's Little Dividend."

Dick Martin also enjoyed a successful career as a TV director. His directing credits include "In the Heat of the Night," "The Bob Newhart Show," "Sledge Hammer!," "Newhart," "The Redd Foxx Show," "Mama's Family," "Goodnight, Beantown," "Family Ties," "Archie Bunker's Place" and "House Calls."

"Say goodnight, Dick." "Goodnight Dick."

DR. ALVIN MARKS Died May 25, 2008

Inventor Dr. Alvin Marks died of pancreatic and liver cancer. His age was not given. Dr. Marks was a noted scientist and inventor. He held 122 patents with the US Patent office. Dr. Marks was an advisor for president John F. Kennedy. One of his inventions was the 3-D Motion Picture process which he developed with his brother Mortimer Marks.

IRVIN "JIM" DUFFY Died May 25, 2008

Set decorator Jim Duffy died at age 63. Mr. Duffy was a member of I.A.T.S.E. Local #44. His many credits include "Captain Ron," "The Marrying Man," "Murder in Paradise," "Alien Nation," "The Running Man," "Black Widow," "Murder, She Wrote," "Cocoon" and "Vega$." Mr. Duffy served his country in the US Army during the early Vietnam War era.

EARLE HAGEN Died May 26, 2008

Oscar-nominated and Emmy-winning composer Earle Hagen died at age 88. Mr. Hagen composed and whistled the memorable theme song for "The Andy Griffith Show." Mr. Hagen shared an Oscar nomination with Lionel Newman for their score for the Marilyn Monroe film "Let's Make Love." He was nominated for four Emmy awards. Three nominations for his work on the series "I Spy" and one for the TV movie "Stand By Your Man." Mr. Hagen won his Emmy for "I Spy." Earle Hagen worked as either composer, orchestrator or musical arranger on over 100 films and TV shows. His many credits include "Eight Is Enough," "Mary Hartman, Mary Hartman," "The Mod Squad," "The Don Rickles Show," "That Girl," "The Dick Van Dyke Show," "Gomer Pyle, U.S.M.C.," "The Many Loves of Dobie Gillis," "Make Room for Daddy," "Mike Hammer," "Compulsion," "Carousel," "Daddy Long Legs," "There's No Business Like Show Business," "Gentlemen Prefer Blondes," "Monkey Business," "Don't Bother to Knock," "Scudda Hoo! Scudda Hay!," "Nightmare Alley" and "Kiss of Death."

SYDNEY POLLACK Died May 26, 2008

Oscar and Emmy-winning director and producer Sydney Pollack died of cancer at age 73. Mr. Pollack was also an accomplished actor who worked on Broadway, TV and in numerous films. Sydney Pollack was nominated for three Best Director Oscars and three Best Picture Oscars. He won one of each for the 1985 film "Out of Africa." The films he directed received a total of 47 Oscar nominations with 10 wins. The many films he produced earned even more. Mr. Pollack is survived by his wife, the former actress Claire Griswold as well as their two daughters. Mr. Pollack's only son was killed in a plane crash in 1993.

I had the pleasure of meeting Sydney Pollack during the filming of "The Firm." He stood next to the craft service table talking with folks in the neighborhood being used as the location of Tom Cruise's character's home. For nearly an hour Mr. Pollack spoke with the locals. I was struck by his unpretentious manner. Several older women doused him with compliments about "Out of Africa." He took the words humbly and only seemed uncomfortable when someone would go overboard with fawning. A young teen asked him questions about the craft of directing. Mr. Pollack listened intently to the awkward kid and gave in-depth and thoughtful answers. Not once did Mr. Pollack appear annoyed or aloof. Just an ordinary guy enjoying the company of others. When an assistant arrived with a choice of cars to be used in an upcoming scene, Mr. Pollack apologized for having to go back to work and he left. I never forgot what a nice man Sydney Pollack appeared to be. Though that was the only time I had the pleasure of meeting him, I have no doubt that Sydney Pollack was in real life the decent and down-to-earth man he appeared that day.

Sydney Pollack was responsible for some of the best American films of the 60s and 70s. Mr. Pollack began and honed his craft as a director working in television. He helmed episodes of such shows as "Ben Casey," "The Alfred Hitchcock Hour" and "The Fugitive." He won an Emmy for directing a1965 episode of "Bob Hope Presents the Chrysler Theater." Following that show Mr. Pollack began directing feature films. Sydney Pollack directed 20 feature films and took over the reigns of another film from Frank Perry.

Sydney Pollack directed five films during the 1960s. His feature debut was "The Slender Thread" which starred Sidney Portier and Ann Bancroft. The movie received two Oscar nominations. His second film was the first of seven collaborations with actor Robert Redford. "This Property is Condemned" starred Redford, Natalie Wood and Charles Bronson. Miss Wood received a Golden Globe nomination for the film. Mr. Pollack and friend Burt Lancaster teamed up for Pollack's next two films as director. "The Scalphunters" is an underrated comedic Western. "Castle Keep" is an interesting misfire that wants to be a surreal anti-war film. Lancaster called on Mr. Pollack to finish directing his adaptation of John Cheever's "The Swimmer" following creative differences with director Frank Perry. Sydney Pollack's final film of the 1960s was one of his best. "They Shoot Horses, Don't They?" received nine Oscar nominations including Pollack's first as Best Director. Gig Young won a well-deserved Best Supporting Oscar for his performance as the organizer of the Depression-era dance marathon.

Mr. Pollack directed six films during the 1970s. He should have kept the total down to five. His first film of the decade was 1972's "Jeremiah Johnson." It was his second collaboration with Robert Redford. Mr. Pollack was nominated for the Golden Palm at Cannes for the film. (Persoanl aside: I snuck out of school to see the movie. That night I got caught out after curfew and taken to juvenile hall. You wouldn't think there was a connection with sneaking out of school to go see a movie and getting arrested but the same thing happened a year later when I snuck out of school to see "The Exorcist.") The following year Mr. Pollack directed one of the best chick flicks of all time. Robert Redford and Barbara Streisand starred in "The Way We Were." The film earned six Oscar nominations including a Best Actress for Ms. Streisand. Marvin Hamlisch won two Oscar for Best Song and Best Score.

Sydney Pollack's "The Yakuza" is one of the best crime films of all time. Robert Mitchum is tough as nails as a WWII vet who returns to Japan to help out an old war buddy. The excellent supporting cast includes Brian Keith, Herb Edelman (playing a character based on Paul Schrader's brother Leonard) and Richard Jordon. "The Yakuza" is a tough, gritty film with as much depth as action. Mr. Pollack's commentary track on the DVD for "The Yakuza" shows both his good nature and his insight as a director. In 1975 Pollack once again teamed up with Robert Redford for the thriller "Three Days of the Condor." Max Von Sydow, Cliff Robertson and Faye Dunaway co-starred in the Oscar-nominated film. Mr. Pollack's 1977 misfire "Bobby Deerfield" is the most disappointing film of his career. I don't know what he was thinking. They can't all be winners. Mr. Pollack finished the 1970s with "The Electric Horseman." The romancer was his fifth film with Robert Redford and his second with Jane Fonda. Willie Nelson stole the movie from both stars. The film received one Oscar nomination.

During the 1980s he only directed three films…but what films! "Absence of Malice" The film chalked up three Oscar nominations. The climatic scene in which Wilford Brimley character tries to unravel the film's mystery is still amazing. Next came the gender-bending comedy "Tootsie." Mr. Pollack not only produced and directed but also acted in the film as Dustin Hoffman's agent. The movie earned ten Oscar nominations. Mr. Pollack received his second Best Director nod and his first nomination for Best Picture. Jessica Lange won for Best Supporting actress. His final film as director in the 1980s was "Out of Africa." Once again, he teamed up with Robert Redford. The film received ten Oscar nominations and won six. Mr. Pollack won Best Director and Best Picture Oscars for "Out of Africa."

Mr. Pollack directed six films during the last 18 years. 1990's "Havana" was his final film with Robert Redford. The box-office failure received one Oscar nomination for Best Score. Mr. Pollack's last great film was 1993's "The Firm." Based on the popular John Grisham novel, the movie earned two Oscar nods. Next came the ill-conceived remake of "Sabrina." The two Oscar nominations were for John William's music. "Random Hearts" was a near-miss. It could have been a very good film, but missed the mark. Ironically, the best thing about the movie is Pollack's own acting performance in the film! Pollack's final feature film "The Interpreter" was a return to form. The taut thriller was the first film to gain permission to shoot in the United Nations building. Mr. Pollack's final film as director was the documentary "Sketches of Frank Gehry."

I would be remiss if I didn't pay tribute to Sydney Pollack the actor. His work in Woody Allen's "Husbands and Wives" was Oscar worthy. He acted in over 30 films and TV shows. "War Hunt" was the first film I remember seeing him in. His cameo as the emergency room doctor in "Death Becomes Her" was the only funny thing in that film. Other memorable performances came in "The Player," "Eyes Wide Shut," "Changing Lanes" and "Micahel Clayton." His final acting role is in the just released "Made of Honor."

Sidney Pollack also produced a number of films for other filmmakers. His many producer credits include "Honeysuckle Rose," "The Fabulous Baker Boys," "Presumed Innocent," "White Palace," "Dead Again," "Flesh and Bone," "Searching for Bobby Fisher," "The Talented Mr. Ripley," "Dead Again," "Heaven," "40 Shades of Blue" and "Cold Mountain."

Sydney Pollack may not have had the visual style of a Hitchcock, Peckinpah or Kurosawa, but he knew how to tell a story. As an actor himself, he knew how to get the best out of his cast. He mentored many others in the craft of filmmaking. Sydney Pollack was one of the greats. Would that he had made more films!

KELLY SCHROEDER Died May 26, 2008

AD and production manager Kelly Schroeder died of heart failure at age 51. Mr. Schroder was the assistant director on over 20 films. His AD credits include "Graffiti Bridge," "Pow Wow Highway," "Almost Dead," Cyborg 2," "Relentless II," "UFO Abductions," "Halloween 5," "Night of the Demons" and "My Chauffeur." Mr. Schroeder was the production manager on "Invasion Earth: The Aliens Are Here."

GEORGE GARRETT Died May 26, 2008

Writer George Garrett died of bladder cancer at age 78. He was the Poet Laureate of Virginia. In addition to his many books and poems, Mr. Garret wrote the films "The Young Lovers," "Frankenstein Meets the Spacemonster" and "The Playground."

ROBERT H. JUSTMAN Died May 28, 2008

Producer/director Robert Justman died of complications from Parkinson's Disease at age 81. Mr. Justman was an associate producer of more than half of the episodes of the original "Star Trek" TV series. He was also supervising producer on the series "Star Trek: The Next Generation." Other producer credits include the TV series "The Adventures of Superman," "Search," "Mission: Impossible," "Then Came Bronson" as well as the Made for TV movie "Gideon's Trumpet" starring Henry Fonda." Robert Justman had over 50 assistant director credits. He worked on such films and TV shows as "Star Trek," the Ralph Meeker version of "Kiss Me Deadly," "While the City Sleeps" and the Marlon Brando version of "Mutiny on the Bounty." Mr. Justman served his country in the US Navy in the Pacific Theater during WWII.

CHARLES IRELAND Died May 28, 2008

Film editor Charles Ireland died at age 46. Mr. Ireland worked as an assistant editor and editor on nearly 50 films. His assistant editor credits include such films as the remake of "Lolita," the live version of "101 Dalmatians," "Waterworld," "Major Payne," "Maverick" and "Stealing Heaven." Mr. Ireland moved up to editor with such films as "The Cheetah Girls 2," "Shall We Dance" and "3 Strikes."

JAMES L. WASSELL Died May 29, 2008

Oscar-winning inventor James Wassell died at age 94. Mr. Wassell worked for Bell & Howell. In 1963 he received a scientific Oscar for the design and development of a new and improved automatic motion picture additive color printer. Mr. Wassell was a Fellow of the Society of Motion Picture and Television Engineers.

HARVEY KORMAN Died May 29, 2008

Emmy-winning comedian and actor Harvey Korman died of complications following an abdominal aneurysm at age 81. Mr. Korman was nominated for seven Emmy Awards (four wins) for his work on "The Carol Burnett Show." Mr. Korman was part of the greatest ensemble cast in the history of TV. Mr. Korman was best known for his many skits opposite Tim Conway on the hit variety show. Mr. Korman did his best to not laugh as Tim Conway did his schtick. Like most viewers at home, Harvey Korman could not contain his laughter. His reactions added to the comedy and endeared him to the viewers. Whatever happened to TV shows like that? Mr. Korman along with star Carol Burnett, Tim Conway, Vicki Lawrence and Lyle Wagoner entertained millions of viewers during the show's 11 year run.

Harvey Korman's best known film role was as the villain Hedley Lamar in Mel Brook's classic "Blazing Saddles." Mr. Korman appeared in four films by Mel Brooks. He co-starred in Brooks' send-up of Alfred Hitchcock "High Anxiety." He also appeared in the less successful "History of the World: Part 1" and "Dracula: Dead and Loving It."

Harvey Korman appeared in nearly 100 films and TV shows. He played Bud Abbott opposite Buddy Hackett as Lou Costello in the Made for TV biopic "Bud and Lou." Mr. Korman also appeared in the infamous "Star Wars Holiday Special." Mr. Korman played a supporting role in the cult-classic "Lord Love a Duck." Not all of his film's were gems. He also appeared in two of the post-Peter Sellers "Pink Panther" movies. He also appeared in Buck Henry's stinker "First Family." Mr. Korman made guest appearances on numerous TV series and game shows during the 1960s and 70s

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GEORG FENADY Died May 29, 2008

Producer/director Georg Fenaday died at age 77. On the TV series "Combat!" Mr. Fenaday worked his way up the ladder from 2nd AD to 1st AD to Associate Producer to Director. His other directing credits include "Emergency," "Mission Impossible," "Simon & Simon," "Baywatch," "TJ Hooker" and the Bing Crosby produced horror films "Terror in the Wax Museum" and "Arnold." Mr. Fenaday was the brother of "The Rebel" TV series creator Andrew Fenaday. Mr. Fenaday dropped out of college and signed with the Washington Senators baseball team. After a year in the minor leagues he returned to college.

HUGH JARRETT Died May 31, 2008

Singer Hugh Jarrett died of complications from injuries sustained in a March automobile accident. The 78 year-old singer was a member of Elvis Presley's back-up singers "The Jordanaires." Mr. Jarrett sang bass for the group. He appeared with Elvis on the King's early TV appearances. He sang on over 50 Elvis records. Mr. Jarrett also acted in several TV productions. His acting and other film and TV credits include "In the Heat of the Night," "Chiefs," "Murder in Coweta County," "Loving You," "The Steve Allen Show," "The Milton Berle Show," "Elvis '56" and "The Ed Sullivan Show."

BILL CONNELL SR. Died May 31, 2008

Racetrack broadcaster Bill Connell Sr. died at age 61. Mr. Connell was a veteran racetrack announcer and the host of his national TV show "The PROS In Motorsports." He appeared in three racing-reatlated films: "The Last American Hero," "Greased Lightning," and "Stroker Ace." Mr. Connell served his country in the US Navy during the Vietnam War.

HARRY BERNSEN Died May 31, 2008

Producer Harry Bernsen died at age 82. Mr. Bernsen was the father of actor Corbin Bernsen. Harry Bernsen produced several films and TV shows. He produced the great Jimmy Stewart con-man film "Fool's Parade." His other credits include "The Awakening Land," "Mighty Moose and the Quarterback Kid," "Take a Hard Ride," "Three the Hard Way" and "Something Big."