AUGUST 2002 FILM WORLD OBITUARIES

ROBERT COBO Died Aug. 2, 2002

Mr. Cobo was a renowned Mexican actor. Mr. Cobo achieved world notice in Luis Bunuel's classic 1950 film "Los Olivados" (The Young and the Damned). The film dealt with impoverished street kids. Mr. Cobo received an Ariel (the Mexican Oscar) for his work in Bunuel's film. Cobo won a second Ariel portraying a transvestite father in the 1978 film "El Lugar Sin Limites" (A Place Without Limits). Mr. Cobo appeared in over 60 films during his 50+ year career. Mr. Cobo was nominated for two other Ariel's during his lifetime. The 72 year old actor died after a long battle with cancer.

DANNY SUE NOLAN Died Aug. 3, 2002

Ms. Nolan appeared in several b-movies and a Three Stooges short in the early
1950s. She died of a stroke.

PETER MILES Died Aug. 3, 2002

Mr. Miles was a child actor born in 1938. His first credit came in 1939! He appeared in over 20 films before retiring at age 16! He was Peter Cratchet in the 1954 TV version of "A Christmas Carol." Mr. Miles died of cancer.

CHICK HEARN Died Aug. 5, 2002

Chick Hearn had one of the most distinctive deliveries in broadcasting. The long-time sports announcer was known for his rapid-fire play-by-play as the voice of the Los Angeles Lakers for over 40 years. Mr. Hearn appeared in over 20 films during his career, appearing either as sports announcers or himself. Hearn's credits include "Fletch," James Caan's "The Gambler," "Busting," Robert Aldrich's great comedy "All the Marbles,' "White Men Can't Jump" and "Love and Basketball." The 85 year-old broadcaster died after falling down and striking his head at his home.

MATTHEW ROBINSON JR. Died Aug. 5, 2002

Writer/producer/actor died after a 20 battle with Parkinson's disease. Mr. Robinson played the first "Gordon" on "Sesame Street" from 1969 to 71. His writing credits include the 1972 Shirley MacLaine horror film "The Possession of Joel Delaney," "Save the Children" and "Amazing Grace." His TV writing credits include "The Cosby Show," "Eight is Enough" and "Sanford and Son."

JOSHUA RYAN EVANS Died Aug. 6, 2002

20 year old actor Joshua Ryan Evans died during an undisclosed medical procedure. The 3 foot 2 actor appeared on such TV series as "Alley McBeal," "Poltergeist: The Legacy" and "7th Heaven." He portrayed the Grinch as a child in the Jim Carrey film "How the Grinch Stole Christmas." His latest role was in the soap opera "Passions" where, ironically, his character was recently killed off.

KATHERINE SCHOFIELD Died Aug. 6, 2002

British actress Katherine Schofield died of cancer. Ms. Schofield’s credits include Tobe Hooper’s gonzo, Sci-Fi/horror film "Lifeforce," "The Greek Tycoon" with Anthony Quinn and "Nicholas and Alexandra."

BRUCE JOHNSTON SR. Died Aug. 7, 2002

Christopher Walken's performance in the film "At Close Range" was one of the most chilling and cold-blooded of his career. He portrayed a character based on Bruce Johnston Sr.. Mr. Johnston murdered several members of his gang and his own son's girlfriend. He died of natural causes in prison.

DONNA HALL FISHBURN Died Aug. 7, 2002

Ms. Fishburn was one of the great female stunt doubles. A respected horsewoman, Ms. Fishburn doubled for many of the great actresses of Hollywood's golden era. Her credits include "How the West Was Won," "Calamity Jane," "The Maverick Queen" and "Cat Ballou." Ms. Fishburn died of lung disease at age 74.

PETER MATZ Died Aug. 9, 2002

Mr. Matz was an Oscar-nominated composer. Matz won both Emmy and Grammy awards for his music. His credits include "Marlowe" with Bruce Lee, the Oscar nominated "Funny Lady," Paul Bartel's "Lust in the Dust" and the great made-for-TV, true-crime movie "The Killing of Randy Webster. Mr. Matz had nearly 50 credits. He was active in raising money for AIDS research. Mr. Matz was 72 when he died of lung cancer.

ROBERTO GUZMAN Died Aug. 9, 2002

Mr. Guzman was one of the most popular actors in Mexico. He appeared in nearly 70 feature films and TV series. Known as "Flaco" (Skinny), the 65-year-old actor died of a cerebral hemorrhage in Mexico City.

MIRA COHADADIC Died Aug. 9, 2002

Ms. Cohadadic was a Serbian costume designer with over 80 credits during her 40 year career.

DON CHASTAIN Died Aug. 9, 2002

Mr. Chastain was an actor who appeared numerous TV shows, but he was best
known for soap operas. His credits include "As the World Turns," "One Life to Live," "Another World," " Search for Tomorrow" and "General Hospital." Mr. Chastain appeared in "The Black Godfather" and the terrible Joe Namath/Ann-Margret biker flick "C.C. and Company." Mr. Chastain also wrote an over-looked, but worthwhile horror film called "The Mafu Cage."

MICHAEL HOUSER Died Aug. 10. 2002

Michael Houser was the lead singer and guitar player for the popular jam band "Widespread Panic." Mr. Houser died at age 40 after a long battle with pancreatic cancer. The concert documentary "The Earth Will Swallow You" followed the band on tour. "Widespread Panic" had a following not unlike "The Grateful Dead." According to the band's website: Memorials may be sent to: The Michael Houser Music Fund; Athens Academy; PO Box 6548; Athens, GA 30604. Mr. Houser was very involved in the Athens Academy in an attempt to provide children with an appreciation of the richness that music has to offer.

DORIS WISHMAN Died Aug. 10, 2002

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

COLIN EGGLESTON Died Aug. 10, 2002

41-year-old Australian director Colin Eggleston died is Switzerland. Mr. Eggleston directed several B-movies in the 70s and 80s. His best film "The Long Weekend" was his first. Catch it if you can. Other credits include "Innocent Prey," the horrendous "Sky Pirates" and "Outback Vampires."

NORMAN JOLLEY Died Aug. 13, 2002

Writer/producer/actor Norman Jolley died of a heart attack while undergoing treatment for pancreatic cancer. Mr. Jolley was 86 years old. Jolley began his career as an actor in B-Westerns. He became the head writer for the early sci-fi TV series "Space Patrol." He produced the Raymond Burr police show "Ironsides." Mr. Jolley's feature film credits include the 1957 sci-fi film "The Monolith Monsters" about giant crystal creatures from space which attack a southwestern town.

ALEXANDER KLEIN Died Aug. 13, 2002

Alexander Klein's spy novel "The Counterfeit Traitor" was made into a 1962 film with William Holden. Mr. Klein also wrote the screenplay for the 1976 Israeli film "Ha-Banana Hashehora" (The Black Banana). Mr. Klein taught writing at Fordham University. He was 83.

PETER HUNT Died Aug. 14, 2002

British film editor and director Peter Hunt cut the first five James Bond
films and directed another. In addition to "Dr. No," "Thunderball," "You Only Live Twice," "From Russia With Love," and "Goldfinger," Mr. Hunt edited "Sink the Bismark" and Michael Caine's Harry Palmer spy film "The Ipcress File." Mr. Hunt also edited the great British war film "A Hill in Korea." Mr. Hunt directed what may be the best Bond film of the series: "On Her Majesty's Secret Service." Mr. Hunt directed several other action films such as "Gold" and "The Wild Geese II."

DAVE WILLIAMS Died Aug. 14, 2002

The lead singer and guitar player for the band "Drowning Pool" was found dead on the band's tour bus at the Oz Fest in Virginia. Toxicology reports are still pending. Williams composed the songs "Sinner" and Bodies" which were used as theme songs for the 1997 TV wrestling series "Raw is War." "Drowning Pool" took their name from the book and Paul Newman film of the same name. Stay off the drugs folks!

LARRY RIVERS Aug. 15, 2002

Larry Rivers was a jack of all arts. A Pop artist associated with Andy Warhol, a sculptor, a cartoonist, and an abstract artist. Mr. Rivers was also a filmmaker and actor. He starred with Allen Ginsberg, Gregory Corso and other important figures from the Beat Generation in the revolutionary 1959 film "Pull My Daisy" which was based on a work by Jack Kerouac. He appeared as himself in the documentary about Warhol hanger-on Brigid Berlin: "Pie in the Sky: The Brigid Berlin Story." Those interested in learning more about Mr. River's life might want to check out the documentary "Larry Rivers: Public and Private." Mr. Rivers died of Liver Cancer at age 78. Those interested in seeing Mr. River's artwork should do a "Google" image search. I've always loved River's "Last Civil War Veteran."

JEFF COREY Died Aug. 16, 2002

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

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

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

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

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

JOHN PEYSER Died Aug. 16, 2002

86-year-old director John Peyser died in his sleep. Mr. Peyser directed numerous TV shows during the 1950s through the 70s. He also directed several exploitation films such as "Centerfold Girls." His TV credits include "Hawaii 5-O," "Switch," "Quincy" and "CHiPs."

DEAN REISNER Died Aug. 18, 2002

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

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

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

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

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

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

SWAMI SATCHIDANANDA Died Aug. 19, 2002

Swami Satchidananda was the yoga guru who gave the blessing to open the Woodstock festival in 1969. In addition to his appearance in the documentary "Woodstock," Swami Satchidananda appeared in Conrad Rooks 1966 autobiographical film "Chappaqua." Swami Satchidananda was best known as a spiritual leader. He founded the town of Yogaville in Virginia. Swami Satchidananda died at age 88 while attending a peace conference in India.

ED GELDART Died Aug. 21, 2002

Character Ed Geldart died at age 77. He played John Travolta's father in "Urban Cowboy." Mr. Geldart's credits include "Rushmore" "Futureworld" "A Perfect World" "Leap of Faith" "Robocop 2" and "Mississippi Burning." Mr. Geldart also appeared on the TV series "Walker: Texas Ranger."

ROBERT VAN SCOYCK Died Aug. 23, 2002

TV writer and producer Robert Scoyock died of diabetes at age 74. Mr. Scoyock specialized in the mystery genre. He won an "Edgar Allan Poe" award for one of his "Columbo" scripts. Mr. Scoyock wrote for "Columbo" "Magnum P.I." and "Banacek." His producer credits include "Murder She Wrote" and "The Virginian."

DENNIS FIMPLE Died Aug. 23, 2002

Veteran character actor Dennis Fimple died at age 61. Mr. Fimple acted as a regular on TV shows such as "Petticoat Junction" and "Alias Smith and Jones." His film credits include "Stay Hungry," "Goin’ South" and "Maverick."

TED ASHLEY Died Aug. 24, 2002

Ted Ashley was the chairman and CEO of Warner Brothers Studio from 1969 through 1980. During his tenure, Mr. Ashley turned the studio into one of the most successful motion picture companies of the time. The former talent agent oversaw the rebirth of Warner Brothers. He was responsible for green-lighting some of the greatest films of the 70s. Mr. Ashley died of acute leukemia at age 80.

WILLIAM WARFIELD Died Aug. 25, 2002

Mr. Warfield is best known to film fans for his rendition of "Old Man River" in the 1951 film "Showboat." That scene was also used in the 1974 anthology "That's Entertainment." Mr. Warfield also appeared in "The Green Pastures." Mr. Warfield was a Professor of Voice at Northwestern. Mr. Warfield served with U.S. Army Intelligence for four years during WWII. Mr. Warfield was best known as a stage actor. His most famous role was in Gershwin's "Porgy and Bess."

STANLEY GREENBERG Died Aug. 25, 2002

Stanley Greenberg was an Emmy-nominated screenwriter whose work was marked by serious intelligence. Mr. Greenberg wrote the screenplays for two Charlton Heston films in the early 1970s. "Skyjacked" was a fair action thriller about the hijacking of a commercial airliner. Mr. Greenberg's best feature film script was the 1973 Sci-Fi film "Soylent Green." "Soylent Green" was made memorable by the final performance of screen legend Edward G. Robinson. Mr. Greenburg won the Nebula award given by the Science Fiction and Fantasy Writers of America for his adaptation of Harry Harrison novel.

The medium in which Mr. Greenberg really shined was TV. He wrote the scripts for some of the most powerful Made for TV films of the 70s. "The Missiles of October" was a taut thriller about the Cuban missile crisis. The film made a star out of William Devane as JFK. Mr. Greenberg was nominated for an Emmy for that script "The Silence" told the true story of a West Point cadet forced to endure internal exile for an honor code violation he didn't commit. Richard Thomas delivered a great performance. Mr. Greenberg's other great script was "Pueblo." That script dealt with the capture and imprisonment of a Navy spy ship by North Korea in 1968. Hal Holbrook won an Emmy for his performance as Commander Lloyd Bucher. Mr. Greenberg died of brain cancer at age 74.

YANNIS GIONAKIS Died Aug. 25, 2002

Mr. Gionakis was a popular Greek comic actor. During the 1960s, Mr. Gionakis gained fame playing simple-minded characters. Mr. Gionakis appeared in over 90 films.

LUIS DE LIMA Died Aug. 27, 2002

Portugese actor Luis De Lima appeared in several films and TV series. He appeared as Bernardo in Henri-Georges Clouzot’s classic action film "The Wages of Fear." Mr. De Lima died of a pulmonary infection.

JANE TILDEN Died Aug. 27, 2002

Ms. Tilden was an Austrian actress who appeared in nearly 70 films during her 60-year career.

PAUL TRIPP Died Aug. 29, 2002

Paul Tripp was an actor director and musician. His greatest claim to fame were three TV shows in the 1940s and 50s, which used music to teach children. "Mr. I, Magination," "On the Carousel" and later, "Birthday House" were all highly regarded educational shows for children. In the 1980s Mr. Tripp wrote and produced "Tubby the Tuba" for HBO.

J. LEE THOMPSON Died Aug. 30, 2002

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

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

CRAIG KINSBURY Died Aug. 30, 2002

Mr. Kingsbury played Ben Gardner, as in "Isn’t that Ben Gardner’s boat?" in a little film called "Jaws."

LIONEL HAMPTON Died Aug. 31, 2002

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

HORST WENDLANDT Died Aug. 30, 2002

German producer Horst Wendlandt produced over 80 films during his career. His 1978 film "A Simple Story" was nominated for a Best Foreign Film Oscar. Mr. Wendlandt was the executive producer of two Ingmar Bergman’s "The Serpant’s Egg" and "From the Life of the Marionettes." Actor Klaus Kinski appeared in 15 films produced by Mr. Wendlandt. Mr. Wendlandt produced a wide range of films from serious dramas, to Giallo horror films and spaghetti westerns. Mr. Wendlandt died of cancer.

JULY 2002 FILM WORLD OBITUARIES

MARITTA WOLFF STEGMAN Died July 1, 2002

Ms. Stegman was a novelist who had two of her books turned into films. Her debut novel "Whistle Stop" and her second book "Night Shift" were both filmed in 1946.

JAMES LEE Died July 2, 2002

Mr. Lee was a writer who worked mainly in TV. His credits include the mini series "Roots" and "Scruples." He also wrote the 1967 TV version of "The Diary of Ann Frank." Mr. Lee wrote the terrible Elvis movie "A Change of Habit."

IVAN MOFFAT Died July 4, 2002

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

KATY JURADO Died July 5, 2002

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

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

JOHN FRANKENHEIMER Died July 6, 2002

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

PHYLLIS WHITE Died July 7, 2002

Ms. White was a long tome TV scriptwriter. She wrote for such shows as "Mission Impossible," "My Favorite Martian" and she was the head writer for the original "Tonight Show." Ms. White began the union TV Writers of America. That organization was later absorbed by the Writer's Guild of America. Ms. White died of a stroke at age 79.

WARD KIMBAL Died July 8, 2002

Mr. Kimball was one of the "Nine Old Men" who made up the core of animators for Walt Disney during the early days. Mr. Kimball created Jiminy Cricket for the film "Pinocchio." He also created the crows in "Dumbo." Mr. Kimball worked on "Snow White and the Seven Dwarves," "Alice in Wonderland," "Mary Poppins" and "The Three Caballeros." Two of his films won Oscars for best animated short subjects. Walt Disney said of him: "Ward in the one man who works for me that I'm willing to call a genius." High praise considering the source.

ROD STEIGER Died July 9, 2002

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

QUINCY WONG Died July 9, 2002

Chicago based actor Quincy Wong appeared in "Novocaine," "Mo Money" and "March in the Windy City." Mr. Wong was known for efforts to dispel stereotypes about Asian Americans in film. Mr. Wong died of a heart attack.

ALVIN SAPINSLEY Died July 13, 2002

80 year old Alvin Saplinsley was an award-winning TV writer. He wrote scripts for the TV series "The Untouchables,' "Hawaii 5-O," "The Hitchhiker" and "Kojak" among others. Mr. Saplinsley won the Edgar Allan Poe Award for Best TV Feature or Mini-Series script for the 1977 film "Sherlock Holmes in New York" starring Roger Moore, John Huston and Patrick McNee. Mr. Saplinsley was blacklisted during the 1950s for attending Communist Party meetings. Mr. Saplinsley served his country in WWII and took part in D-Day as a cryptographer.

PHIL ROTH Died July 15, 2002

Mr. Roth was a character actor on TV and in film during the 60s, 70s and 80s. His TV credits include "The Monkees," "Get Smart" and "Tales From the Darkside." Mr. Roth appeared in Mike Nichols' "Catch-22," "One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest" and "Harry and Tonto." The 74 year old actor died of colon cancer.

GENE MOSS Died July 15, 2002

Mr. Moss was the creator on co-writer of the "Roger Ramjet" cartoon series. Mr. Moss wrote everyone of the cartoon's 156 episodes with his partner. Mr. Moss did an uncredited cameo in the Barry Newman spy thriller "The Salzberg Connection." Mr. Moss also provided the voice of Smokey Bear for a decade.

MONTY BERMAN Died July 15, 2002

Mr. Berman was the second generation owner of a London costume company. Mr. Berman's company provided costumes for such films as "Lawrence of Arabia," "Doctor Zhivago," "The Guns of Navarone," "The African Queen" and the James Bond movie series. Mr. Berman was 90 years old.

PAULA MCCLURE Died July 17, 2002

Ms. McClure was an Emmy winning TV personality. She once worked for "Entertainment Tonight." Ms. McClure appeared in several films, usually as a reporter. Her credits include "Lady Boss," "A Talent for the Game," "Total Recall," "The First Power" and "The Preppie Murder."

HARRY GERSTAD Died July 17, 2002

Two-time Oscar winner Harry Gerstad died of natural causes at age 93. Mr. Gerstad was a film editor for over 40 years. He retired in 1975. Mr. Gerstad shared the Best Editing Oscar for Fred Zinnemann's classic Western "High Noon" with Elmo Williams. Mr. Gerstad's other Best Film Editing Oscar was for the Kirk Douglas film "The Champion." Mr. Gerstad was awarded the "Career Achievement Award" by the American Cinema Editors in 1997. Other credits include "Walking Tall," "Big Jake," "Batman: The Movie," "The Spiral Staircase" and Marlon Brando's debut film "The Men."

BARRY C. REED Died July 19, 2002

Mr. Reed was an attorney turned novelist. His book "The Verdict" was turned into a film starring Paul Newman and James Mason.

CHUCK TRAYNOR Died July 22, 2002

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

LEO McKERN Died July 23, 2002

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

CHAIM POTOK Died July 23, 2002

Mr. Potok was a novelist who wrote "The Chosen." An excellent film version of the story of a friendship between two Jewish teenagers: one orthodox and the other liberal. The film starred Rod Steiger and Maximilian Schell. Robby Benson and Barry Miller are great as the friends from different worlds.

CLARK GESNER Died July 23, 2002

Mr. Gesner was a writer and composer. He created the Musical "You're a Good Man Charlie Brown." The musical was turned in two TV films: a 1973 live action version and an animated version in 1985. Mr. Gesner also composed music for the "Captain Kangaroo" TV series. Mr. Gesner died of a heart attack at age 64.

MAURICE DENHAM Died July 24, 2002

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

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

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

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

BUDDY BAKER Died July 26, 2002

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

AMBER SEXXXUM (LAURA BAILEY) Died July 26, 2002

Porn star Laura Bailey a.k.a. Amber Sexxxum, died at home in St. Petersburg Florida at age 31. No cause of death was listed. She is survived by her parents and a sister. Ms. Bailey appeared in about 13 adult films.

FRANK INN Died July 27, 2002

Mr. Inn was one of the top animal trainers working in film. His trained
animals for feature films such as "Breakfast at Tiffany's," "The Daring Doberman's" and Blake Edward's "S.O.B." Mr. Inn was best known as the trainer of Benji. The dog appeared in the TV series "Petticoat Junction" and then the first "Benji" movie. The dog's daughter played the role in the sequels. Mr. Inn also trained Arnold Ziffle on "Green Acres" and all of Elly May's critters on "The Beverly Hillbillies."

JOEL OLIANSKY Died July 29, 2002

Mr. Oliansky was a writer/director who worked in both TV and feature films. He won an Emmy in 1970 for an episode of "The Bold Ones." He was nominated for another Emmy in 1976 for the mini-series "The Law" with Judd Hirsch. Mr. Oliansky drafted the script "Bird" which Clint Eastwood later rewrote and filmed. "Bird" told the story of jazz great Charlie Parker. Mr. Oliansky directed several TV shows including "Kojak" and "Emergency." He directed the Richard Dreyfuss/Amy Irving love story "The Competition." Mr. Oliansky died at age 66.

PETER BAYLESS Died July 29, 2002

British character actor Peter Bayless died of cancer at age 80. Mr. Bayless's credits include "From Russian With Love," "The Magic Christian," "Lock Up Your Daughters" and "Old Dracula." In later years, Mr. Bayless appeared in several of Hallmark's fantasy films made for TV. Those credits include "Merlin," "Alice in Wonderland" and "Arabian Nights."

PAULINE CHAN Died July 31, 2002

Yet another adult film actress has committed suicide. Little girls beware! Fast money sometimes carries a big price tag. Pauline Chan was Chinese erotic film actress. Ms. Chan starred in "Category 3" films in Hong Kong. These movies were mainly softcore porn. Ms. Chan retired from adult films in 1992 and began pursuing a singing career. She did perform concerts in the US during the mid 1990s. However, Ms. Chan's largest fan-base came from her porn films.

JUNE 2002 FILM WORLD OBITUARIES

FREEMAN KING Died June 1, 2002

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

HERMAN COHEN Died June 2, 2002

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

LEW WASSERMAN Died June 3, 2002

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

SAM WHIPPLE Died June 3, 2002

41-year-old actor Sam Whipple died of cancer. His credits include "The Doors," "Airheads" and "The Rock." Mr. Whipple played Dr. John Ballard on the TV series "7 Days."

BARBARA PREISKEL Died June 4, 2002

Ms. Preiskel was the second black woman to graduate from Yale's Law School. She was an attorney for the Motion Picture Association of America. Ms. Preiskel was an anti-censorship advocate for the MPAA for nearly 25 years. She aided Jack Valenti in fighting state and local laws that banned (among other things) the depiction of interracial relationships on film.

RADWAN EL-KASHEF Died June 5, 2002

Mr. El-Kashef was one of Egypt's premiere film directors. He died of a stroke at the young age of 50. His films include "The Magician," "Date Wine" and "Violets are Blue." A philosophy student, Mr. El-Kashef's films usually dealt with the search for love and happiness. "Date Wine" was nominated for awards at the Locarno International Film Festival and Namur International Festival of French Speaking Films.

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

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

CARMELO BERNAOLA Died June 5, 2002

Mr. Bernoulli was a composer in Spain. Bernoulli composed the scores to over 80 films. He won the Goya Award for his score to the film "Pasodoble." He provided scores to many horror films in the 60s and 70s.

SIGNE HASSO Died June 7, 2002

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

JAMES LUISI Died June 7, 2002

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

WILLIAM D'ANGELO Died June 8, 2002

Mr. D'Angelo was a longtime TV producer. He was responsible for the shows "Love American Style," "Room 222," "Run, Joe Run" and "Batman." Mr. D'Angelo died of pancreatic cancer.

JAMES WHEATON Died June 9, 2002

Actor James Wheaton had recurring roles on "Sanford and Son" and "Good Times." Mr. Wheaton appeared in George Lucas’s "THX1138," "Black Belt Jones" and "A Piece of the Action." Mr. Wheaton died of a heart attack.

JAMES ALMANZAR Died June 9, 2002

Mr. Almanzar was an actor appeared in numerous Disney films including "The Black Cauldron," "The Apple Dumpling Gang Rides Again" and "The Devil and Max Devlin." Mr. Almanzar died of cancer.

JOHN GOTTI Died June 10, 2002

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

ROBERT HENDERSON Died June 10, 2002

Mr. Henderson was given a technical achievement Oscar in 1942 for his development of lighting equipment used in the movies. He gave up his film career to work on the Manhattan Project. He worked at the Los Alamos until laboratory 1974.

BILL BLASS Died June 12, 2002

Bill Blass was a leader in fashion design for over a half a century. His film credits include "The Wiz" and "Advise and Consent" in which he designed Gene Tierney's wardrobe.

JOSE LUIS DIBILDOS Died June 12, 2002

Mr. Dibildos was a Spanish writer/producer with numerous credits stretching over a 50-year career. He produced the film "The Beehive." Mr. Dibildos received an honorary Goya Award in 2001. Mr. Dibildos died of a heart attack.

ALBERT BAND Died June 14, 2002

Mr. Band wrote, produced and directed many b-movies during his long career. He was the producer of Stuart Gordon's "Robo Jox" and "From Beyond." He produced the soft-core version of "Cinderella" with b-movie sex goddess Rainbeaux (Cheryl) Smith. Other credits include "The Troll" and "Trancers. He began his career as the assistant director on John Huston's classic crime drama "The Asphalt Jungle."

HIDO MUROTA Died June 15, 2002

Mr. Murota was a Japanese actor with nearly 50 feature- film credits. He appeared in films as diverse as Akira Kurosawa's "Kagemusha" and the adult film "Tokyo Deep Throat." He also appeared in "Merry Christmas Mr. Lawrence" with David Bowie. Mr. Murota died of lung cancer. Remind me to stop smoking!

ROBERT LENSKI Died June 19, 2002

Mr. Linski was a twice Emmy nominated TV writer. His credits include the mini-series "Chiefs," "Decoration Day" and "A Death in the Family."

CHANG CHEH Died June 21, 2002

Mr. Cheh was the most prolific martial arts action director to come out of Hong Kong. Mr. Cheh directed over 100 films. He discovered and mentored John Woo. His films "Wu Du" and "Chi Ma" are highly regarded by fans of the genre. Ironically, Mr. Cheh never directed Bruce Lee. Mr. Cheh was awarded a Lifetime Achievement Award at the Hong Kong Film Festival this year.

DOLORES GRAY Died June 26, 2002

Ms. Gray was a singing star in several MGM musicals. Her credits included "It's Always Fair Weather," "Kismet," "The Opposite Sex" and "Designing Women." Ms. Gray also had a long successful career on Broadway. She died of a heart attack.

JOHN ENTWISTLE Died June 27, 2002

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

WILLIAM DUFFY Died June 28, 2002

Mr. Duffy wrote the biography of Billie Holliday "Lady Sings the Blues." The book was made into a film starring Diana Ross. Mr. Duffy also helped Edward G. Robinson write his autobiography. Mr. Duffy was the last husband of actress Gloria Swanson.

ROSEMARY CLOONEY Died June 29, 2002

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

FRANCOIS PILLU Died June 29, 2002

Mr. Pillu was a French actor who appeared in over 100 films. His credits include Costa Gravas's "Z," Frederico Fellini's "Nights of Cabiria" and "Weekend at Dunkirk."