from einsiders.com

starting from last Oct 17 (when last I copied & pasted *apologies*)

earthdogue aka death rogue (anagram)


ART HANSON Died Oct. 18, 2007

Property master Art Hanson died at age 80. The I.A.T.S.E. Local #44
member worked in the Universal property department. His film credits
include "Missing Pieces" and the 1979 version of "The Prisoner of
Zenda." Mr. Hanson served his country in the US Navy during WWII and
the Korean War.


MARK TAVENER Died Oct. 18, 2007

British radio and TV writer Mark Tavener died of cancer. Mr. Tavener
wrote the BBC radio satire "Absolute Power" as well as other radio
shows. "Absolute Power" was turned into a TV series and Mr. Tavener
also wrote episodes of the series. Mr. Tavener's novel "In the Red"
was turned into a 1998 TV movie.


BARBARA SHELDON Died Oct. 19, 2007

Regular readers know that I occasionally defer to British filmmaker
Austin Mutti-Mewse as a guest writer. His friend Barbara Sheldon
passed away at age 95. My thanks to Austin for another fine tribute
to an actress of yesteryear.

Barbara Sheldon who has died aged 95, was a brisk and sassy blonde;
one of many of arrived in Hollywood in the early 1930s in the hope of
breaking into pictures and becoming a star. Barbara was lucky in the
fact she found herself and agent and won a film contract with RKO
Pictures, appearing in a handful of comedies (including "Stolen by
Gypsies or Beer and Bicycles" 1933), before landing a more meatier
role in the musical "Flying Down to Rio" (1933).

Barbara always found it hard to believe that a tiny bit-part would
land her cult status along with a legion of fans who regularly wrote
requesting an autographed photo. Barbara was nothing if not
modest, "We honestly believed it would be one of those movies that
get a flashy premiere and comes off in a week. Yet I can recall
walking on Sunset Boulevard the day "Rio" opened and seeing the
queues of people form a snake around block after block. The mass
hysteria for Fred and Ginger went on for weeks making superstars of
them both and mini celebrities out of us their minor co-stars."

After a year, Sheldon's contract expired and with no where to go, she
freelanced moving from one 'B' picture studio on Gower Street to the
next. "My agent suggested me for a western. I couldn't ride and had a
fear of horses, but with nothing else on the horizon I took it. My co-
star was John Wayne and I was to be his leading lady."

"The Lucky Texan" was minor fare with Wayne cast as Jerry Mason, a
young Texan, and Jake Benson (George 'Gabby' Hayes), an old rancher
who become partners and strike it rich with a gold mine. They then
find their lives complicated by the son of a crooked sheriff and a
platinum blonde called Betty (Sheldon).

It was the mid-1930s when the western was in its heyday, adept at
slinging a gun Barbara soon began to relish the appeal of the
sagebrush, but her career in Hollywood didn't last. "I thought was
I'd made it as a leading lady the offers would come flooding me. I
was young and very naïve."

Barbara was always a fighter, and yet the struggle for fame was
something that she was never wanted or needed that badly, always
insisting, "I was no Joan Crawford or Bette Davis." Barbara often
loved to share her stories of Hollywood with anyone who cared to
listen. Her closest friend was Hedda Hopper, and she loved sharing
tales on her, "Hedda Hopper was a dear friend of mine and I adored
her. She was very unique and quite witty, to say the least. She never
actually typed a single word, as she always had her Secretary with
her at a moments notice. I liked her but I never really could trust
her, as she would sell you in a second! Gossip was her whole being
and she loved it!"

More than half a century after she quit Hollywood, and Barbara still
maintained loyal friendships with other of Wayne's leading ladies;
Verne Hillie, Ruth Hall, Mae Madison and Loretta Sayers, reuniting
every few months at her favorite restaurant in Pasadena. Barbara was
the last surviving of the gang. She was also great friends with
Dorothy Dare and "Flash Gordon" star Clarice Sherry, who both survive.


JAN WOLKERS Died Oct. 19, 2007

Dutch writer and sculptor Jan Wolkers died one week shy of his 82nd
birthday. Director Paul Verhoven directed the film version of Mr.
Wolkers' novel "Turks Fruit" as "Turkish Delights." The film received
the Best Foreign Film Oscar and was later voted Best Dutch Film of
the Century. Mr. Wolkers collaborated with director Verhoven on his
masterpiece "Spetters." The late director Theo Van Gogh filmed Mr.
Wolker's novel "Return to Oegstgeest." Mr. Wolkers was a respected
sculptor. His work includes the Amsterdam Auschwitz Monument.

BELLA JARRETT Died Oct. 19, 2007

Actress Bella Jarrett died at age 81. Ms. Jarrett appeared on
Broadway in "Lolita" and "Once in a Lifetime." Her film and TV
credits include "All My Children," "Arthur," "The Cotton Club"
and "Jane Austen in Manhattan." Ms. Jarrett was also a romance
novelist who penned her books under the name Belle Thorne.


ANGELO SPIZZIRRI Died Oct. 20, 2007

Actor and rock band tour manager Angelo Spizzirri died of undisclosed
causes at age 32. Mr. Spizzirri appeared in such films and TV shows
as "The Rookie" with Dennis Quaid, "Groove," "Sabrina, the Teenage
Witch" and "Buffy the Vampire Slayer." Mr. Spizzirri turned from
acting to becoming tour manager for several bands including Incubus
and Slayer. Prayers of comfort for his family and friends.


DARRELL CATHCART Died Oct. 21, 2007

B-movie cinematographer Darrell Cathcart died at age 72. Mr. Cathcart
lenses a number of drive-in movies during the 1970s. He shot several
films starring Earl Owensby including "Seabo." Other credits include
Al Adamson's "Carnival Magic" and "A Rare Breed" with actor George
Kennedy. Mr. Cathcart was also a TV cinematographer for several North
Carolina TV stations.


SANDRA BERKE-JORDON Died Oct. 21, 2007

Verteran costumer Sandra Berke-Johnson died of natural causes at age
70. The I.A.T.S.E.Local #705 president worked in the film industry
for more than 20 years. Her many credits include "Camelot," "The
Godfather Part II," "Rocky 2," "The Deer Hunter," "Heaven's
Gate," "Splash," "Pee-wee's Big Adventure," "Crimes of the Heart" and
Tim Burton's short film "Frankenweenie." Ms. Berke-Jordon served four
terms on the California Film Commission.


VIC RAMOS Died Oct. 21, 2007

Casting director Vic Ramos died of pulmonary failure at age 77. Mr.
Ramos cast or helped cast some of the best films of the 1970s and
80s. He later turned to managing talent including actor Matt Dillon.
Mr. Ramos' impressive list of credits include "The Godfather Part
II," "Star Wars," "Apocalypse Now!," "Hardcore," "Thief," "The
Friends of Eddie Coyle," "Blue Collar," "Over the Edge," "Dressed to
Kill," "My Bodyguard," "The Black Stallion," "Where's
Poppa?," "Little Murders," "The Anderson Tapes," "The Taking of
Pelham One Two Three" and "Shamus." Mr. Ramos also produced the Matt
Dillon films "Kansas" and "Liar's Moon." He was the son of MGM key
grip Victor Ramos Sr. Mr. Ramos was married to Virginia Loew, the
granddaughter of Marcus Loew. Marcus Loew was the founder of Metro
which merged with Samuel Goldwyn's and Louis B. Mayer's companies to
form Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer. Mr. Ramos' wife Virginia passed away in
1964.


PETER MOFFATT Died Oct. 21, 2007

British director Peter Moffatt died at age 84. Mr. Moffatt was best
known for his work on the "Dr. Who" TV series. Among his other
credits were the TV shows "Crane," "EastEnders" and "All Creatures
Great and Small."


DON FELLOWS Died Oct. 21, 2007

Actor Don Fellows died at age 84. The American born actor worked
almost exclusively in the UK. He began his career during the Golden
Age of US television. Mr. Fellows appeared in over 70 films and TV
shows during his career. Mr. Fellows usually played American military
officers. His many credits include the original version of "The
Omen," "Raiders of the Lost Ark," "The Eye of the Needle," "Pretty
Poison," "Superman II," "Superman IV," "Trick Baby," "Inside
Out," "Twilight's Last Gleaming," "Valentino," "The Dirty Dozen: The
Next Mission" and "The Last Days of Patton."


DEBORAH LEE Died Oct. 22, 2007

Producer and production manager Deborah Lee died of undisclosed
causes at age 58. Ms. Lee was the executive producer of the Gwyneth
Paltrow version of "Great Expectations." Ms. Lee was unit production
manager on several films including Martin Scorsese's remake of "Cape
Fear" and "Mad Dog and Glory." She was a location manager
on "Prizzi's Honor." Ms. Lee's first film credit was as a production
secretary on the Anthony Quinn/Jacqueline Bisset romancer "The Greek
Tycoon."


EVE CURIE Died Oct. 22, 2007

Eve Curie, the daughter of Nobel Prize winning scientists Madame
Marie and Pierre Curie died at age 102. Ms. Curie wrote her mother's
biography "Madame Curie." The biography was turned into a 1943 film.
The movie received 7 Oscar nominations. Ms. Curie played herself in
the short film "Paramount Pacemaker: Brains Can Be Beautiful."


PETER HUME Died Oct. 23, 2007

Canadian born athlete, coach and actor Peter Hume died of natural
causes at age 54. Mr. Hume was a wrestler and member of Canada's 1980
Olympic team. He did not get to compete as Canada was one of over 60
countries to boycott the Moscow Olympics due to their invasion of
Afghanistan. Mr. Hume later became a member of the Olympic Team
coaching staff. He also coached at two colleges. He was a high school
teacher for the past 13 years! Mr. Hume appeared in the Bill Murray
comedy "Meatballs." He played 'The Stomach' during the film's
hilarious hotdog-eating sequence. Actor Keith Knight, who played his
competition during the scene died in August of this year. Mr. Hume
became a naturalized US citizen after going through the legal
procedures to enjoy the rights and privileges of US citizenship.


ROBERT F. O'NEILL Died Oct. 23, 2007

Emmy-winning producer Robert F. O'Neill died of colon cancer at age
86. Mr. O'Neill shared an Emmy Award for Outstanding Limited Series
in 1971 for "Columbo." He was nominated for four more Emmy awards,
three for his work on "Murder, She Wrote" and another for "Quincy
M.E." Mr. O'Neill's other credits include "Mission Impossible," "The
Sixth Sense," "Arthur Hailey's Wheels" and "Evening in Byzantium."
Robert F. O'Neill served his country during WWII in the US Army where
he took part in the D-Day invasion as well as other battles in
Europe. Thanks for your service to your country.


MARK MULHOLLAND Died Oct. 24, 2007

Irish character actor Mark Mulholland died at age 70. Mr. Mulholland
plied his trade on stage, screen and TV. His film credits include Ron
Howard's "Far and Away," Tom Hanks upcoming "City of Ember," the
excellent POW thriller "The McKenzie Break," "The Boxer" and the BBC
TV series "Eureka Street."


ALLAN STEVENSON Died Oct. 24, 2007

Actor Allan Stevenson was killed by a hit-and-run driver in New York
City. The 89-year-old actor worked on Broadway, early TV and made a
few film appearances. Mr. Stevenson appeared in several Broadway
productions including the 1948/49 production of "Anne of a Thousand
Days." Mr. Stevenson appeared in the films "Age of Innocence"
and "Murder By Phone." He worked on TV during the 1950s in "Studio
One," "Kraft Television Theater" and "Hallmark Hall of Fame."


MASAKAZU YOSHIZAWA Died Oct. 24, 2007

Flautist Masakazu Yoshizawa died of stomach cancer at age 57. Mr.
Yoshizawa's music was featured in such films as "Memoirs of a
Geisha," "TMNT," "Dragon: The Bruce Lee Story," "Vanishing
Acres," "The Joy Luck Club" and the miniseries "Shogun."


PATRICK MYNHARDT Died Oct. 25, 2007

South African actor Patrick Mynhardt died of natural causes at age
75. Mr. Mynhardt died several hours after performing an
autobiographical one-man show at London's West End. In addition to
his successful stage career, Mr. Mynhardt appeared in nearly 30 films
and TV shows. His film credits include Cornel Wilde's "The Naked
Prey," "Zulu Dawn" and "A Good Man in Africa."


LYN STATTEN Died Oct. 25, 2007

Actress Lyn Statten died at age 82. Ms. Statten starred in the
religious Film Noir movie "The Seventh Commandment." Her many TV
credits include "Playhouse 90," "The Alaskans," "Bat Masterson"
and "Alfred Hitchcock Presents."


BERNARD KOWALSKI Died Oct. 26, 2007

Emmy-nominated producer and director Bernard Kowalski died at age 78.
Mr. Kowalski shared two Emmy nominations for Outstanding Drama Series
for his work on "Baretta." Mr. Kowalski produced and or directed many
of the top TV series of the 1960s and 70s. He produced the first two
episodes of the WWII series "The Rat Patrol." I thank him for that
alone as it was a childhood favorite of mine. One of the first movies
to warp my psyche was the kinky horror movie "Attack of the Giant
Leeches." I saw it when I was six years old. I came away from the
horror opus with very strange feelings for Yvette Vickers, the
movie's poor-white-trash femme fatale. Bernard Kowalski was the man
who directed that cult classic. I thank him (and Yvette Vickers) for
that too! Another childhood favorite was the sci-fi/horror
film "Night of the Blood Beast." Mr. Kowalski also helmmed that Roger
and Gene Corman production. Mr. Kowalski directed four films for the
Corman brothers. Mr. Kowalski returned to horror films in the 1970s
directing "Sssssss."

Though I remember Mr. Kowalski fondly for his horror films, his
biggest impact on the industry was as a TV producer and director. His
impressive list of TV credits include "Perry Mason," "The
Untouchables," "Rawhide," "The Virginian," "Mission
Impossible," "Gunsmoke," "Columbo," "The Wild, Wild West," "The
Streets of San Francisco," "The Rockford Files," "Magnum
PI," "Airwolf," "Knight Rider," "Jake and the Fatman" and "Diagnosis
Murder." A trivia point from Mr. Kowalski's career was the title of
his 1969 disaster movie "Krakatoa: East of Java." The film dealt with
the worst volcanic eruption in recorded history: the 1883 eruption
felt all around the world. Someone at the studio was asleep when the
film was named as Krakatoa is actually west of Java.


MORIA LISTER Died Oct. 27, 2007

South African actress Moria Lister died at age 83. Ms. Lister enjoyed
a successful stage career in South Africa and the UK. She began her
UK stage career at age 14! Ms. Lister appeared in nearly 50 films and
TV shows during a screen career that began in 1944. Her film credits
include "Wanted for Murder," "So Evil My Love," "The Cruel Sea" and
the 1989 version of "Ten Little Indians."


DARIUS TRULY Died Oct. 27, 2007

26-year-old actor Darius Truly was stabbed to death after leaving a
party in Los Angeles. The Memphis-born actor performed in the
play "The Chicago Conspiracy" earlier in the evening. Mr. Truly
appeared in the short films "Dropping the Gloves" and "Concrete
Brown" while studying acting at college in Atlanta, Georgia. Mr.
Truly had begun to gain notice for his work on various Los Angeles
stages. Prayers of comfort for his family and friends.


PATRICK YACANO Died Oct. 27, 2007

Musician and sound mixer/editor Patrick Yacano died of a heart attack
at age 38. Mr. Yacano was a sound mixer on a number of films
including "Henry: Portrait of a Serial Killer, Part 2," "Jackie
Gleason: Genius at Work" and "Mint Condition." Mr. Yacano worked on
the audio restoration of several older TV series and feature films
including "The Texas Chain Saw Massacre," "Magic," "The Jackie
Gleason Show," and "The Beverly Hillbillies." Prayers of comfort for
his family and friends.


PORTER WAGONER Died Oct. 28, 2007

Country music legend Porter Wagoner died of lung cancer at age 80.
The old-school country music star was a staple of the Grand Ole Opry
for 50 years. He launched the career of singer/actress Dolly Parton
when she became his duet partner in 1967. Porter Wagoner hosted the
long-running TV series "The Porter Wagoner Show" from 1960 to 1979.
His film credits include "Country Music on Broadway," "The Nashville
Rebel" and Clint Eastwood's "Honkytonk Man." Mr. Wagoner's many hit
songs include "Satisfied Mind" and "Green Green Grass of Home." His
music can be heard on the soundtracks of such films as "The Nashville
Sound" and "The People vs. Larry Flynt."


SENKICHI TANIGUCHI Died Oct. 29, 2007

Japanese writer/director Senkichi Taniguchi died of pneumonia at age
95. Mr. Taniguchi's directorial debut was the crime drama "The Snow
Trail." He co-wrote the film with childhood friend Akira Kurosawa.
The film also marked the screen debut of actor Toshiro Mifune in the
starring role. Mr. Taniguchi directed five films written by or co-
written with Akira Kurosawa. Mr. Taniguchi's 1965 action
film "International Secret Police: Key of Keys" was re-dubbed by
Woody Allen and turned into the comedy "What's Up Tiger Lily?" Mr.
Taniguchi directed over 30 films during his career, thirteen of which
he also wrote.


EVELYN HAMANN Died Oct. 29, 2007

German actress Evelyn Hamann died at age 65. Ms. Hamann received the
Bavarian TV Award for her work on the popular TV series "Adelheid and
Her Murderers." She played a secretary of a bumbling police chief who
solves the crimes her boss's cases. Ms. Hamann also won the Best
Actress in a TV Series award from the RTL Golden Lion Awards for her
work in the series.


DAVID MORRIS Died Oct. 29, 2007

British painter and peace activist turned actor David Morris died at
age 83. Mr. Morris appeared in his first feature film at age 79. He
played Grandpa George in Tim Burton's "Charlie and the Chocolate
Factory." Mr. Morris other credits include the TV shows "Little
Britain," "When I'm 64" and "Jonathan Creek." Mr. Morris was a
renowned portrait and landscape painter. He served his country in the
Royal Army during WWII where he saw action in North Africa.


KAREN FRACTION Died Oct. 30, 2007

Actress Karen Fraction died. Her age and cause of death were not
revealed. Ms. Fraction enjoyed success on Broadway, feature films and
TV. She co-starred in the Nickelodeon TV series "My Brother and Me."
Ms. Fraction's Broadway credits include "Caberet" and "The Tap Dance
Kid." Ms. Fraction appeared in the films "Palmetto" and "The First of
May." She appeared in a number of TV series including "Walker, Texas
Ranger" and "Swamp Thing."


ROBERT GOULET Died Oct. 30, 2007

Tony-award-winning actor/singer Robert Goulet died of pulmonary
fibrosis at age 73. Mr. Goulet was awaiting a lung transplant at the
time of his death. Mr. Goulet's best known role was as Sir. Lancelot
in the Broadway play "Camelot." Robert Goulet won the Best Actor in a
Musical Tony Award for the 1968 production of "Happy Time." Robert
Goulet appeared in over 100 films and TV shows. He had a cameo scene
with Susan Sarandon in Louis Malle's outstanding "Atlantic City."
Other feature film credits include "Naked Gun 2 and
½," "Scrooged," "Beetle Juice," "I'd Rather Be Rich" and "I Deal in
Danger."

Robert Goulet's musical skills graced the small screen in the
adaptations of the plays "Brigadoon," "Kiss Me Kate" and "Carousel."
He made guest appearances on numerous TV shows including "The Ed
Sullivan Show," "The Dean Martin Show," "The Andy Williams
Show," "The Sonny and Cher Comedy Hour," "Police Squad!," "Rowan &
Martin's Laugh-In" and "The Simpsons."


LINDA STEIN Died Oct. 30, 2007

Linda Stein, the former manager of the band The Ramones was found
murdered in her New York apartment. The 62-year-old music legend was
beaten to death in her home. Linda Stein also helped launch the
careers of Madonna, The B-52s and The Talking Heads. Ms. Stein was
also know as a realtor to numerous music stars. Ms. Stein appeared as
herself in the documentaries "End of the Century" and "Too Tough to
Die: A Tribute to Johnny Ramone." Ms. Stein was the inspiration for
characters played by actress Sylvia Miles (a realtor) in "Wall
Street" and Sela Ward (a record exec) in "Studio 54." Prayers of
comfort for her family and friends.


JOE ROMERO Died Oct. 30, 2007

Gay adult actor/director Joe Romero died of undisclosed causes. His
age was not given. Mr. Romero starred in over 600 adult films. He was
also a musician and released two CDs. Mr. Romero spent his last year
working in a hospital in New England helping AIDS patients. Prayers
of comfort for his family and friends.


KAREN KUYKENDALL Died Oct. 31, 2007

Actress, singer and business woman Karen Kuykendall died of cancer at
age 69. The Austin, Texas native was a major force in the Austin arts
scene. She sang in cabarets and acted in a number of local theater
productions. She appeared in the indie comedy "Deep in the Heart."
Ms. Kuykendall lent her vocal talents to the English versions of
several anime films including "Nadia of the Mysterious Seas." She was
the sister of actor Guich Koock and the niece of blacklisted writer
John Henry Faulk. Her uncle's story was turned into the TV
movie "Fear On Trial" in which Mr. Faulk was portrayed by actor
William Devane.


DAVID TALLICHET Died Oct. 31, 2007

Businessman and WWII bomber pilot David Tallichet died at age 84. Mr.
Tallichet was one of the nation's most successful restaurateurs. He
founded the Specialty Restaurants Corporation. Mr. Tallichet served
his country during WWII as a B-17 pilot. He flew 23 combat missions
over Europe. Mr. Tallichett continued flying throughout his life and
had the largest privately owned collection of WWII vintage aircraft
in the world. He often loaned his planes out for Hollywood movies.
Mr. Tallichet continued to pilot his own B-17 until his death. He was
worked as a B-25 pilot in the Harrison Ford film "Hanover Street."
Mr. Tallichet flew his own B-17 to Europe to take part in the filming
of "Memphis Belle." He was the brother of 1930s and 40s actress
Margaret Tallichet. His late sister was the wife of director William
Wyler, the director the classic documentary "The Memphis Belle: A
Story of a Flying Fortress." Thanks for your service to our country.


COL. PAUL TIBBETS Died Nov. 1, 2007

American hero Col. Paul Tibbets died at age 92 after a period of
declining health. Col. Tibbets piloted the US Superfortress Enola Gay
on the first nuclear mission over Hiroshima, Japan on August 6, 1945.
The bomb blast killed over 80,000 people, but in turn saved millions
of lives by bringing an end to the Pacific Theater of operation
during WWII. The bombing of Hiroshima and Nagasaki three days later
caused the unconditional surrender of Japan and ended the need for a
bloody invasion of Japan. Col. Tibbets flew B-17 missions in Europe.
He lead the first B-17 mission into Europe as a member of the famed
8th Air Force. He returned to the US and became a test pilot for the
B-29 Superfortress. Considered by many in the military to be the best
bomber pilot of the war, Col. Tibbets was given the mission that
would end the war. His plane, the Enola Gay was named after his
mother. Paul Tibbets appeared in several documentaries including "The
World at War" and "Price for Peace." Col. Tibbets has been portrayed
by a number of actors in feature films and TV shows. Barry Nelson
played him in the 1947 film "The Beginning or the End." In 1952
Robert Taylor played him in "Above and Beyond." Patrick Duffy had the
honors in the TV movie "Enola Gay: The Men, the Mission and the
Atomic Bomb." Thanks you for your unwavering service to your country
in the face of an enemy bent on world domination and destruction.


CLARICE SHERRY Died Nov. 1, 2007

Documentary filmmaker Austin Mutti-Mewse has informed me that yet
another actress from the 1930s has passed on. Once again, I gladly
step aside for Mr. Mutti-Mewse and thank him for this tribute to Ms.
Sherry.

Clarice Sherry, the Hollywood film starlet who made a string of
movies during the 1930s died of an aneurysm in Los Angeles on
November 1, she was 93. Clarice Sherry's close friend Dorothy Dare
recalled Clarice as being, "A beautiful sweet woman." Clarice spent
much of her Hollywood career being confused with character actress
Gladys Blake. Dorothy Dare said both women detested one another
particularly as they both dated the same man, actor Gordon Richards.
Hollywood gossip queen Hedda Hopper was on hand at Ciro's one night
when the pair fought 'like wildcats'. Dorothy Dare retold the
story: "Gordon had confused the two and made arrangements for a date,
being "confused" he made a date on the same night at the Hollywood
hot-spot Ciro's. Gordon had arrived with Clarice and not too long
after Gladys showed up looking for Gordon. Well, gals being gals,
they fought and pulled hair and broke dishes and spaghetti went
airborn! It was a mess and I was not eyewitness to the fiasco but
dear old Hedda was and she wrote about it and really scolded the gals
and as for Gordon, well, he was pretty much unscaved! It happened
that Barbara Stanwyck was also an eyewitness and she told me that in
fact Gladys Blake started it." Clarice Sherry, who was born in
Brooklyn on January 23, 1914, became best known for her portrayal of
Queen Glenda of Frigia in the Flash Gordon series during the 1940s
and as Myrna Loy's bridesmaid Bebe in 'Manproof' (1938). Her
favourite film was 'Fast and Furious' (1939), in which she
played 'Miss Brooklyn' opposite Ann Sothern (who became a lifelong
friend) and Franchot Tone. Her other film credits include: 'The Girl
Friend' (1935), also with Ann Sothern, 'One in a Million' (1936) wit
Sonja Henie and Don Ameche, the romantic thriller 'The Emperor's
Candlesticks' (1937), 'Honolulu' (1939), with George Burns and Gracie
Allen, and 'The Women' (1939).


SONNY BUPP Died Nov. 1, 2007

Former child actor Sonny Bupp died at age 79. Mr. Bupp appeared in
over 60 films during his career. He played Orson Welles son in the
classic "Citizen Kane." Mr. Bupp was one of the last surviving cast
member of that film. He also appeared in Ronald Reagan's first
film "Love is in the Air." The photo at right is of Mr. Bupp with
William 'Hopalong Cassidy' Boyd in the 1939 film "The Renegade
Trail." Among Mr. Bupp's other credits "Annie Oakley" with Barbara
Stanwyck, "Kid Millions," the classic Ronald Coleman version of "Lost
Horizon," "Angels With Dirty Faces," "Tennessee Johnson" and "The
Devil and Daniel Webster." I spoke with his widow Theresa Bupp. She
stated that she appreciated the outpouring from his fans, but she was
a bit overwhelmed at the moment and wasn't sure when she would be
able to respond to all the cards and letters. She would appreciate
your patience in her time of transition. Mr. Bupp served his country
in the US Army during WWII. As an adult, Mr. Bupp worked as an auto
industry exec. Thanks for the service to your country.


DAVID MARTA Died Nov. 2, 2007

Cameraman David Marta died at age 58. Mr. Marta worked on numerous TV
shows including "Coach," "Little House on the Prairie" and "Hawaii
Five-O."


HENRY CELE Died Nov. 2, 2007

South African actor Henry Cele died of a chest infection at age 58.
Mr. Cele was best known for playing the title role in the TV mini-
series "Shaka Zulu." Mr. Cele portrayed the 19th century Zulu chief
who waged war on the British Empire. Henry Cele was a professional
soccer goalie before turning to acting. The epic-miniseries "Shaka
Zulu" was his film debut. Anyone who has seen the show can not deny
the power of Mr. Cele's performance. Mr. Cele reprised his role as
the warrior chief in the 2001 TV movie "Shaka Zulu: The Citadel."
Other film credits include Michael Douglas' "The Ghost and the
Darkness" and the biopic "Schweitzer" with Malcolm McDowell.


THE FABULOUS MOOLAH Died Nov. 2, 2007

Professional wrestler Lillian Ellison, known to fans for the past 60
years as The Fabulous Moolah died at age 84. According to the WWE,
she reigned as champion for 24 years, the longest such reign in
sports history. Ms. Ellison starred in the documentary film "Lipstick
and Dynamite" which looked at the world of female wrestling. She
began her career in 1949 and continued working through 2006.


ELMORE BURINGRUD Died Nov. 2, 2007

Engineer Elmore 'Moe' Buringrud died at age 84. Mr. Buringrud worked
as an engineer for the Kenworth Truck Company for his entire working
career. He was the man who designed the two specialty trucks used
during the filming of the James Bond film "License To Kill." Mr.
Buringrud's trucks could pop wheelies and drive on two wheels to
avoid being hit by bazooka fire! He explained how he did it in the
documentary "Kenworth Truck Stunt Featurette" which was included in
the DVD release of "License To Kill." Mr. Buringrud served his
country in the US Army during WWII. He served in the Pacific Theater
of Operations and saw action at Iwo Jima. Thanks for your service to
our country.


MARILYN MARTINEZ Died Nov. 3, 2007

Comedienne Marilyn Martinez died of colon cancer at age 52. Ms.
Martinez was one of the Showtime Channel's "Original Latin Divas of
Comedy." Her film and TV credits include "Pauly Shore is
Dead," "Urban Jungle," "Hot Tamales Live: Spicy, Hot and
Hilarious," "My Wife and Kids" and "For Da Love of Money."


JUNE SAMSON Died Nov. 3, 2007

Script supervisor June Samson died of complications from a fall at
age 77. Here many credits include "The Last of the Red Hot
Lovers," "Harry and Tonto," "Bound for Glory," "The Deer
Hunter," "Coming Home," "Heaven's Gate," "The Stone Killer," "…And
Justice For All," "The Challenge," "Against All Odds," "Murphy's
Romance," Top Gun" and "Dangerous Minds."


JOE VERSCHAREN Died Nov. 3, 2007

Singer Joe VerScharen died of cancer at age 67. The baritone singer
was an original member of the singing group "The Skyliners." Their
hit song "Since I Don't Have You" was heard on the soundtracks of
such films and TV shows as "American Graffiti," "Shag" and "The
Sopranos." Mr. VerScharen was one of the writers of the song. The
band broke up after two albums. The reunited at 1968 Madison Square
Garden concert. That concert became the subject of Ricky Nelson's hit
song "Garden Party."


SERGE ROUSSEAU Died Nov. 3, 2007

Actor and talent agent Serge Rousseau died of cancer at age 77. Mr.
Rousseau was a close friend of director Francois Truffaut and was one
of two speakers at the director's funeral. Mr. Rousseau appeared in
three films by his friend: "Stolen Kisses," "The Bride Wore Black"
and "The Green Room." Mr. Rouseau's widow, actress Marie Dubois was
director Truffaut's leading lady in "Jules and Jim" and "Shoot the
Piano Player." Mr. Rousseau's other credits include "The Sleeping Car
Murders," "Mata Hari" and "Is Paris Burning?"


GEORGE RUTTER Died Nov. 4, 2007

Script supervisor George Rutter died of a leg infection at age 91.
Mr. Rutter was the script supervisor for nearly every episode of the
original "Star Trek" TV series. Other credits include the
original "Outer Limits" TV series and "IT! The Terror From Beyond
Space." "IT! The Terror From Beyond Space" was the inspiration for
Ridley Scott's sci-fi classic "Alien." George Rutter served his
country in the US Army-Air Corp during WWII.


PETER VIERTEL Died Nov. 4, 2007

Novelist and screenwriter Peter Viertel died of lymphoma just shy of
his 87th birthday. Mr. Viertel died 20 days after the death of his
wife, actress Deborah Kerr. Mr. Viertel collaborated with director
John Huston on three films: "We Were Strangers," "Beat the Devil"
and "The African Queen." Mr. Viertel's novel "Black Hunter, White
Heart" was a veiled account of his experiences with John Huston
working on "The African Queen." Mr. Viertel adapted his own novel for
the screen. Actor Jeff Fahey played the character based on Mr.
Viertel. Mr. Viertel's impressive list of credits include Alfred
Hitchcock's "Saboteur," "Decision Before Dawn," "The Sun Also
Rises," "The Night Heaven Fell" and "The Old Man and the Sea."


ANTHONY BAVERO Died Nov. 4, 2007

Property master Anthony Bravero died at age 91. Mr. Bavero was a 51-
year-member of I.A.T.S.E. Local #44. Mr. Bavero's many film credits
include "That's Entertainment II," "The Outfit" and "The Russians are
Coming! The Russians are Coming!" Mr. Bavero also worked on numerous
episodes of the hit TV series "Rawhide."


PAUL NORRIS Died Nov. 6, 2007

Comic book artist Paul Norris died at age 93. Mr. Norris co-created
the character "Aquaman" with fellow artist Mort Weisinger in 1940.
The character has been the subject of numerous animated TV series.


HILDA BRAID Died Nov. 6, 2007

British actress Hilda Braid died at age 78. Ms. Briad had been
suffering from dementia. Hilda Braid was best known for the role of
Nana Moon in the long-running TV series "EastEnders." She played the
character in 200 episodes. Ms. Briad appeared in over 60 films and TV
shows during her career. Her film credits include the live-action
version of "101 Dalmatians," "Mrs. Dalloway," "Killer's Moon"
and "The Wildcats of St. Trinian's." Her many TV credits include "Z
Cars," "Softly, Softly," "Emmerdale Farm" and "The Onedin Line."


GEORGE OSMOND Died Nov. 6, 2007

Singing family patriarch George Osmond died of undisclosed causes at
age 90. George and Olive Osmond parented the group of singing
siblings who enjoyed success on TV and the recording industry. Their
nine children are Viril, Tom, Alan, Wayne, Merrill, Jay, Donny, Jimmy
and Marie. Mr. Osmond was portrayed by actor Bruce McGill in the TV
movie "Inside the Osmonds." Actor Joseph Bottoms played George Osmond
in the TV movie "Side by Side: The True Story of the Osmond Family."


ROBERT ROLLIS Died Nov. 6, 2007

Prolific French character actor Robert Rollis died of cancer at age
86. Mr. Rollis was a familiar face in his native land with bit parts
in nearly 150 films and TV shows. Mr. Rollis began his film career
before the outbreak of WWII and continued to work on TV until 2005.
Mr. Rollis appeared in such films as "Adorable Creatures," "Any
Number Can Win," "Weekend at Dunkirk" and "A Slightly Pregnant Man."


HANK THOMPSON Died Nov. 6, 2007

Country Music Hall of Fame singer Hank Thompson died of lung cancer
at age 82. Mr. Thompson had nearly 30 Top 10 hits including the #1
song "The Wild Side of Life." His music can be heard on the
soundtracks of such films as "Smoky," "Every Which Way But Loose," "U
Turn," "Secondhand Lions" and "Slither." Mr. Thompson performed on
such TV shows as "The Joey Bishop Show" and "Austin City Limits."


PETER HANDFORD Died Nov. 6, 2007

Oscar and BAFTA winning sound recordist Peter Handford died at age
88. Mr. Handford won the Oscar and BAFTA for his work on Sidney
Pollack's "Out of Africa." He was also nominated for a second Oscar
for his work on "Gorillas in the Mist." Mr. Handford received two
more BAFTA nominations for "Hope and Glory" and "The Go-Between." He
worked with Alfred Hitchcock on "Frenzy" and "Under Capricorn." Mr.
Handford's craft helped capture Bernard Herrmann's classic score on
Ray Harryhausen's "Mysterious Island." Mr. Handford's impressive list
of credits also include "Havana," "White Hunter Black
Heart," "Dangerous Liaisons," the 1979 remake of "The Lady
Vanishes," "Julia," "Murder on the Orient Express," "Hitler: The Last
Ten Days," "Morgan: A Suitable Case for Treatment," "Darling," "Tom
Jones," "Billy Liar," "Saturday Night and Sunday Morning," "The
Entertainer," "Sons and Lovers," "Room at the Top" and "Night and the
City."


GEORGE W. GEORGE Died Nov. 7, 2007

Writer/film and Tony-nominated Broadway producer George W. George
died at age 87. Mr. George produced the off beat "My Dinner With
Andre." An interesting film not for all tastes. He co-wrote his first
script, "The Bodyguard" with Robert Altman. The pair later
collaborated when they co-directed the documentary "The James Dean
Story." Mr. George wrote for over 30 TV shows and films. His credits
include "Combat!," "Bonanza" and "Peter Gunn." Mr. George also
produced plays on Broadway. He received three Tony nominations during
his career. He received two Tony nominations for his 1964
production "Dylan" which was based on "Dylan Thomas in America." Mr.
George produced both the Broadway and film versions of the
thriller "Night Watch."


PHIL MELFI Died Nov. 7, 2007

Indie producer Phil Melfi died of heart failure at age 38. Mr. Melfi
was the producer of the upcoming horror film "Tenebrous" which was
filmed in my home state of Tennessee. Mr. Melfi was an associate
producer on the US/Hungarian co-production "Getno." Prayers of
comfort for his family and friends, especially his young daughter
Taylor Ann.


MICHAEL DELAHOUSSAYE Died Nov. 8, 2007

Cinematographer Michael Delahoussaye died of multiple myeloma at age
58. He was a member of the International Cinematographers Fuild
I.A.T.S.E. Local #600. Mr. Delahoussaye's credits include many videos
for Playboy including "The Complete Anna Nicole Smith." His feature
film credits include "They Still Call Me Bruce," "Inner Sanctum"
and "Chill Factor."


FRANCINE PARKER Died Nov. 8, 2007

Director and teacher Francine Parker died of heart failure at age 81.
Ms. Parker directed the anti-war documentary "F.T.A." "F.T.A." was
produced by Jane Fonda and Donald Sutherland. It followed the pair
and a troupe of actors and musicians on a tour of military bases in
the Pacific during the Vietnam War. The film focused on the
performer's skits and the reaction of the many, many military
personnel who saw the shows. The 1971 film was pulled from theaters
within two weeks of its release. Ms. Parker taught film directing at
a California college for the past two decades.


CAROLYN LASATER Died Nov. 10, 2007

Former Miss Utah and the 1962 Miss America first runner up Carolyn
Lasater died at age 65. Ms. Lasater appeared in such films and TV
shows as "Diary of a Bachelor," "Hawaiian Eye," "The Tonight Show
with Johnny Carson" and "The Red Skelton Show."


NORMAN MAILER Died Nov. 10, 2007

Writer Norman Mailer died of renal failure at age 84. Norman Mailer
was one of most colorful and controversial writers of the past
century. He won two Pulitzer prizes for his books "The Executioner's
Song" and "Armies of the Night." Norman Mailer was a left-wing man's
man. Norman Mailer served his country in the US Army during WWII. His
experiences became the basis for his debut novel "The Naked and the
Dead." Director Raoul Walsh helmmed the film version in 1958. His
novel "An American Dream" was filmed in 1966 starring Janet Leigh and
Stuart Whitman. Norman Mailer wrote, produced and directed the 1968
comedy "Beyond the Law." He directed a total of four films. Norman
Mailer was not a very good filmmaker. His strengths were in his
writing and the lust for experience in his daily life. His best film
as a director was the adaptation of his novel "Tough Guys Don't
Dance." Still, that wasn't saying much about his skills as a
filmmaker as Mr. Mailer earned two Razzie Nominations as Worst
Director and Worst Screenplay for the movie! The two best film
adaptations of his work were Made for TV movies. "Marilyn: The Untold
Story" starred Catherine Hicks as the doomed sex goddess Marilyn
Monroe. Mr. Mailer caught flack from some quarters when he released
the Monroe biography as he was accused of plagiarism. Mailer's
excellent true-crime novel "The Executioner's Song" was based on tons
of research by Lawrence Schiller. The book ranks just below Truman
Capote's "In Cold Blood" as the best true-crime non-fiction novel.
Tommy Lee Jones and Rosanna Arquette starred in the excellent film of
condemned killer Gary Gilmore. Norman Mailer was nominated for an
Emmy Award for adapting his book to the screen. Lawrence Schiller
directed the movie. Mr. Mailer occasionally acted in film. He starred
in his own film "Wild 90." His best remembered screen appearance was
as architect and murder victim Stanford White in Milos
Forman's "Ragtime." Mr. Mailer also appeared in the short film "The
Obit Writer."


LARAINE DAY Died Nov. 10, 2007

Actress Laraine Day died of natural causes at age 87. Ms. Day
appeared in over 80 films and TV shows during her career. She co-
starred with Joel McCrea in Alfred Hitchcock's classic "Foreign
Correspondent." The 1940 film was nominated for six Oscars. Tarzan
fans may remember Ms. Day as the doomed biological mother of 'Boy'
in "Tarzan Finds a Son." She and actor Morton Lowry played the
parents of 'Boy' and were killed in a plane crash at the beginning of
the film. Ms. Day stuck around mch longer in the "Dr. Kildare" movie
series. She starred as Dr. Kildare's love interest in seven films in
the series. Ms. Day made her film debut in the Barbara Stanwyck
vehicle "Stella Dallas." Other credits include "I Take This Woman"
with Spencer Tracy, "Unholy Partners" with Edward G. Robinson, "Mr.
Lucky" with Cary Grant and John Wayne's "The High and the Mighty."
Ms. Day was once married to baseball legend Leo Durocher. She was the
widow of producer Michel Grilikhes.


FRANK COX Died Nov. 10, 2007

British variety star Frank Cox died at age 86. Mr. Cox and his twin
brother Fred began entertaining their fellow Brits during WWII. They
played Tweedledee (Frank) and Tweedledum (Fred) in the 1972 version
of "Alice and Wonderland." Mr. Cox's film credits include
Truffaut's "Fahrenheit 451," "Up Jumped a Swagman" and "Funny Bones."


DELBERT MANN Died Nov. 11, 2007

Oscar-winning director Delbert Mann died of pneumonia at age 87. Mr.
Mann won the 1955 Best Director Oscar, the Golden Palm at Cannes and
the DGA award for "Marty." Delbert Mann received three other DGA
nominations for "Jane Eyre," "The Dark at the Top of the Stairs"
and "The Member of the Wedding." The DGA also honored Mr. Mann with
the Robert Aldrich Achievement Award in 1997 and the Honorary Life
Member Award in 2002." His other accolades include three Emmy
nominations and three additional Golden Palm nominations at Cannes.

Delbert Mann began directing during the era of live TV. He directed
numerous episodes of such TV shows as "Goodyear Television
Playhouse," "Playhouse 90," "Sunday Showcase," "Philco Television
Playhouse" and "Omnibus."

During the 1950s, Delbert Mann directed five feature films. "Marty"
was his feature debut. The film received eight Oscar nominations and
scored four wins including Best Picture, Best Actor (Ernest Borgnine)
and Best Writer (Paddy Chayefsky). Delbert Mann reteamed with writer
Paddy Chayefsky for his second feature film "The Bachelor Party."
That film earned Carolyn Jones a Best Suppoting Actress Oscar
nomination. His next feature was "Desire Under the Elms" with Sophia
Loren and Tony Perkins. It received a Best Cinematography Oscar
nomination. His fourth film was the classic "Separate Tables." Again
Oscar smiles on Mr. Mann's film with seven nominations and two wins:
Best Actor (David Niven) and Best Supporting Actress (Wendy Hiller).
Delbert Mann's final film of the 1950s was "Middle of the Night" for
which he received a Golden Palm nomination at Cannes.

Delbert Mann began the 1960s with one of my personal favorites "The
Dark at the Top of the Stairs." Robert Preston starred as Rubin Flood
in one of the most memorable films of the decade. Do not miss the
chance to catch this gem on the late show. Shirley Knight received a
Best Supporting Actress Oscar nomination for her work in the film.
Delbert Mann next helmmed the Rock Hudson/Doris Day romantic
comedy "Lover Come Back." Oscar nomination for Best Screenplay. Mr.
Mann next directed the biopic "The Outsider." Long before Clint
Eastwood's "Flags of Our Fathers," Delbert Mann focued in on the
story of Ira Hayes, the native American Marine who helped raise the
flag on Iwo Jima. Tony Curtis starred. Delbert Mann returned to the
world of romantic comedy with the Cary Grant/Doris Day vehicle "That
Touch of Mink." The film received three Oscar nominations. (Do you
see a pattern yet!) Next Delbert Mann mixed romance and war. "A
Gathering of Eagles" starred Rock Hudson and (guess what) received an
Oscar nomination. The Glenn Ford/Geraldine Page comedy also received
an Oscar nomination. James Garner starred in Mann's amnesia
drama "Mr. Buddwing." That film received two Oscar nominations.
While "Fitzwilly" did not receive any awards, the Dick Van Dyke
comedy was a huge hit.

During the late 1960s Delbert Mann returned to his first love,
directing TV. His 1968 TV movie "Heidi" became a footnote in history
when the networks cut in on the final moment of the New York
Jets/Oakland Raiders football game. The Jets led 32 to 29
when "Heidi" began. The final score after the last minute of play was
43 to 32 Oakland. The game became known as the "Heidi Bowl." The
movie won John Williams an Emmy for his outstanding score.

For the rest of his career, Delbert Mann worked mainly in his beloved
medium of television. His version of "All Quiet on the Western Front"
reteamed him with "Marty" star Ernest Borgnine. Richard Thomas played
the lead role in the excellent film. Mr. Mann received one of his
three Emmy nominations for the 1979 movie. Other TV film credits
include "A Girl Named Sooner," "Francis Gary Powers: The True Story
of the U-2 Spy Incident" and "The Last Days of Patton" with George C.
Scott.

Delbert Mann served his country in the US Army Air Corp during WWII.
He was a B-24 pilot with the Eighth Air Force and flew 35 combat
missions over Europe. Thanks for the great movies and thanks for your
service to our country.


ROBERT 'CHIP' MONK Died Nov. 11, 2007

31-year-old cameraman Chip Monk was killed in a one-car accident
while on location in Florida filming the upcoming film "Fireproof."
Mr. Monk's widow is pregnant with the couple's first child. Mr. Monk
was a respected stedicam operator. His many film credits include "The
Waterboy," "Monster" and "Drowning." Prayers of comfort for his
family and friends.


EMILY GAMBOA Died Nov. 11, 2007

Production coordinator Emily Gamboa died of pneumonia at age 68. Ms.
Gamboa worked on such films as "Missing," "The Falcon and the
Snowman," "Romancing the Stone," "Predator," "Old Gringo"
and "Medicine Man."


JOHN PETERSON Died Nov. 11, 2007

John Peterson, the drummer for the 60s rock band "The Beau Brummels"
and co-founder of the band "Harper' Bizarre" died of a heart attack
at age 65. The "Harper' Bizarre" hit song "The 59th Street Bridge
Song (Feeling Groovy)" can be heard on the soundtrack of Michael
Moore's "Sicko," the TV series "Desperate Housewives" and "The Kraft
Music Hall." "The Beau Brummels" song "Just Wait and See" was
performed by the band in the movie "Wild Wild Winter." "The Beau
Brummels" also appeared in the movie "Village of the Giants."


KOJIRO KUSANAGI Died Nov. 11, 2007

Japanese actor Kojiro Kusanagi died of pneumonia at age 78. Mr.
Kusanagi made his film debut starring in the landmark film
1956 "Darkness at Noon." Based on the true story of an innocent man
arrested, tried and executed for a crime he didn't commit. Mr.
Kusanagi appeared in over 40 films. Most of his work was in
supporting roles. Other credits include "Alone on the Pacific," "The
Sun," "Bee Bop High School" and "The Man Who Stole the Sun."


AL MANCINI Died Nov. 12, 2007

Actor Al Mancini died of Alzheimer's Disease at age 74. Mr. Mancini
played condemned soldier Tassos Bravos in Robert Aldrich's
classic "The Dirty Dozen." In the film, Mr. Mancini's character was
befriended by fellow soldier Clint Walker. Their characters died
guarding the cross-roads from a platoon of German soldiers during the
film's climactic battle sequence. Al Mancini was the sixth actor of
those who portrayed the Dozen to die. Al Mancini was also a beloved
drama teacher. He shared his craft with others for over 30 years as a
teacher at the Beverly Hills Playhouse. Mr. Mancini appeared in over
50 films and TV shows during his career. He was a regular on the
British political satire series "That Was the Week That Was" for a
dozen years. Other credits include "Falling Down," "Miller's
Crossing," "Loose Canons," "Turk 182!," and "All in the Family."


IRA LEVIN Died Nov. 12, 2007

Novelist and Tony-Award-nominated playwright Ira Levin died of a
heart attack at age 78. Three of Ira Levin's novels were turned into
excellent films. Roman Polanski adapted and directed the film version
Levin's occult novel "Rosemary's Baby." The horror masterpiece earned
Polanski a Best Screenplay Adapted Oscar nomination. Actress Ruth
Gordon won a Best Supporting Actress nomination for the film. Ira
Levin's satirical sci-fi novel "The Stepford Wives" was filmed twice.
The original version starring Katherine Ross is a classic of the
genre. The remake with Nicole Kidman was a dismal failure and did not
resemble Mr. Levin's book at all. The 1978 film "The Boys From
Brazil" was a brilliant mix of horror, sci-fi and political thriller.
Gregory Peck and Laurence Olivier starred in the tale of an attempt
to stop the cloning of Adolph Hitler. The film received three Oscar
nominations including a Best Actor nod for Laurence Olivier. Mr.
Levin's excellent debut novel "A Kiss Before Dying" was filmed twice
with so-so results. His novel "Sliver" was turned into a sub-par
Sharon Stone vehicle.

Ira Levin wrote nine Broadway plays. "Deathtrap" earned him a Best
Play nomination. The play was adapted to the screen and starred
Michael Caine, Christopher Reeve and Dyan Canon. Mr. Levin's first
Broadway play was the comedy "No Time For Sergeants." Andy Griffith
starred. Don Knotts made his Broadway debut in the play. Both actors
reprised their roles for the 1958 film version. His Broadway
play "Dr. Cook's Garden" was adapted to the small screen. Bing Crosby
delivered a chilling performance as a small town doctor with a god
complex who begins to kill his patients. The movie was part of the
excellent ABC Movie of the Week series. Juna Allyson co-starred.
Thanks for the goosebumps!!!

Entertainment Insiders' DVD critic Frank Cifaldi remembers meeting
Ira Levin: In 1978, my school drama department made a trip to New
York to see some of the plays that were the toast of Broadway. One
evening, after having seen "Bubbling Brown Sugar", our group headed
off for dinner at a deli with the pictures of famous stars all over
the wall (Sardi's?). I was 15 and sat down for whatever sandwich I
had ordered when I overheard a woman at the table next to ours saying
that the gentleman with the beard sitting a few tables down from ours
was Ira Levin, the author. Having read "Rosemary's Baby" and in my
juvenile mind thinking that "The Stepford Wives" was the most amazing
movie I had ever see up to that point, I knew exactly who Ira Levin
was. But I had been told by my parents that you never broke into a
meal while someone was eating and you NEVER interrupted an adult
while they were talking. I kept looking over until finally I could
contain myself no longer. On our way out of the deli, I stopped by
the table and with all the courage I could muster, I excused myself
for being rude but I wanted to tell Mr. Levin that we were going to
see "Deathtrap" on the following night and how thrilled I was to meet
him. Mr. Levin looked at me and I could feel myself turn to ice
thinking I was going to get in trouble. He put his arm around me,
asked my name and introduced me to his agent. He was very gracious
and I somehow managed to ask for his autograph albeit somewhat
breathlessly. The only paper I had was the paper menu I had taken off
the table and he signed his name to it without hesitation. Mr. Levin
then asked why I was in New York and I told him I was with my drama
group and he asked what I wanted to be when I grew up. Starry eyed, I
told him I wanted to be an actor or a writer. He laughed and
said "Both are fine careers. I cannot tell you the joy I have gotten
from writing because I get to meet people like you". I had never felt
so important in my entire life and I almost cried on the spot because
IRA LEVIN was happy to meet ME! We left the deli in the November
chill and it started to rain. We walked everywhere because we
couldn't afford to take taxi's and even though I tried to hide the
signature under my shirt, the ink ran and for days I had the
backwards signature of Ira Levin tattooed on my stomach. I kept the
faded, rumpled piece of paper for a number of years until one day I
threw it away thinking that I could always write to Mr. Levin and
tell him of that night and, of course, HE would remember ME because,
afterall, he had been happy to meet me. I never wrote the letter and
I am sure that Mr. Levin wouldn't have remember me all those years
later but I will never forget that on one November night, in 1978, I
felt like the most important person on the face of the earth.


FERDINANDO BALDI Died Nov. 12, 2007

Italian writer/director/producer Ferdinando Baldi died at age 80. Mr.
Baldi directed nearly 40 films during his career. He began his career
directing films in the Sword and Sandal genre. He co-directed "David
and Goliath" which starred Orson Welles. Mr. Welles also appeared in
Mr. Baldi's film "The Tartars." Mr. Baldi's other credits in the
genre include "Son of Cleopatra" and "The Sword of El Cid." During
this same time period Mr. Baldi was an associate producer on Mario
Bava's masterpiece "The Whip and the Body." Ferdinando Baldi is best
remembered for his many Spaghetti Westerns. While he was no Sergio
Leone, Mr. Baldi did direct several westerns fondly remembered by
fans. His 1967 film "Little Rita of the West" was the first Spaghetti
Western film credit of star Terrence Hill. Franco Nero gave a
memorable performance in the otherwise forgettable "Texas, Addio."
Mr. Baldi's "Blindman" was his take on the Japanese "Zatoichi" film
series. Frequent collaborator, writer/actor Tony Anthony starred in
the title role and Beatles' drummer Ringo Starr co-starred. Mr.
Anthony also co-wrote and starred in Mr. Baldi's 3-D Spaghetti
Western "Comin' At Ya!" The film's plot was so-so but the special
effects were pretty good. Mr. Baldi appeared as himself in the
excellent documentary "The Spaghetti West."


LESTER ZIFFREN Died Nov. 12, 2007

Journalist and screenwriter Lester Ziffren died of congestive heart
failure at age 101. Mr. Ziffren was a reporter during the Spanish
Civil War. Mr. Ziffren wrote nine scripts during his stint in
Hollywood including five films in the "Charlie Chan" movie series.


MONTY WESTMORE Died Nov. 13, 2007

Oscar and Emmy nominated makeup artist Monty Westmore died of natural
causes at age 84. Mr. Westmore was part of the legendary makeup
artist family. He was in the third of four (so far) generations of
movie make up artists! Mr. Westmore was nominated for an Oscar for
his work on Steven Speilberg's "Hook." He's the guy who turned Glen
Close into a male pirate in "Hook." He received two Emmy nominations
for his work on "The Late Shift" and "Who Will Love My Children." Mr.
Westmore worked on over 75 films during his impressive career. He
worked with director Robert Altman on five films including "A
Wedding" and "Quintet." "Quintet" star Paul Newman called on Mr.
Westmore to make him look good (or bad) in 17 films. Mr. Westmore
worked his magic on Mr. Newman in such films as "The Verdict," "The
Color of Money," "The Drowning Pool," "Fat Man and Little Boy," "The
Towering Inferno" and the hilarious John Huston western "The Life and
Times of Judge Roy Bean." Mr. Westmore's many credits include "What
Ever Happened to Baby Jane?," "Straight Jacket," "Rio Lobo," "Uptown
Saturday Night," "Let's Do It Again," "Lipstick," "Endangered
Species," "Airplane 2," "Stand By Me," "Garden's of Stone," "The
Shawshank Redemption" and "se7en." Mr. Westmore's father was "Gone
With the Wind" makeup artist Monte Westmore.


PETER ZINER Died Nov. 13, 2007

Oscar and BAFTA-winning film editor Peter Ziner died at age 88. Mr.
Zinner was nominated for three Oscars for his work on "The
Godfather," "The Deer Hunter" and "An Officer and a Gentleman." He
won and Oscar and a BAFTA for "The Deer Hunter." Mr. Zinner's work
on "The Godfather: Part II" earned him a second BAFTA nomination. Mr.
Ziner was nominated four times for Emmy Awards and won twice. He won
for miniseries "War and Remembrance" and the excellent HBO
film "Citizen Cohn." His other two nominations were for "The Winds of
War" and "Conspiracy." Mr. Ziner's peers in the American Cinema
Editor's Guild honored him with six Eddie nominations of which he won
four. His first Eddie came for Richard Brooks classic Western "The
Professionals." His second was for "The Godfather." Mr. Ziner won
four Eddies for "The Deer Hunter," "War and Remembrance," "Citizen
Cohn" and "Dirty Pictures."

Mr. Ziner came up through the studio system in various capacities for
Fox and Universal. He also worked as a music editor on such films
as "Lord Jim," "X-15," and the US version of "King Kong vs.
Godzilla." Peter Ziner's many other film editor credits include Blake
Edwards' "Gunn," Richard Brooks' "In Cold Blood," "Darling
Lili," "Crazy Joe," "Mahogany," the 1976 version of "A Star is Born"
and "Somebody Has to Shoot the Picture."


GEORGIANA YOUNG Died Nov. 13, 2007

Once again, I happily defer to and thank British filmmaker Austin
Mutti-Mewse for his tribute to Georgiana Young, the sister of actress
Loretta Young and wife of actor Ricardo Montaban.

Georgiana Young, who has died in Beverly Hills at the age of 84, was
the youngest and least well-know of the Young sisters, Loretta Young
being the most famous of the siblings followed by Sally Blane and
Polly Ann Young. Despite actually being a half-sister, Loretta
insisted Georgiana be treated as 'one of their own.' Despite her
exquisite beauty and much hype and promise, the sisters made only one
film together 'The Story of Alexander Graham Bell' (1939). "I was
never comfortable in front of the movie cameras," she said. "I never
had the same drive as Loretta nor the looks of Sally or Polly gusto.
In truth movies and the life of a movie star scared me to death."

Born Georgiana Belzer on September 30, 1923, she acted during the
1930s as Anne Royal. Her 'stage mother' Gladys Royal pushed baby
Georgiana into the movie business at a tender age often appearing as
an un-billed extra in films starring her sisters. Georgiana's father
George Belzer also worked within the movie industry. Her parents
divorced when Georgiana was still an infant.

It wasn't until the tale end of the 1930s that Georgiana began to
find her own way. She spent three years under contract to David O.
Selznick and was screen tested for the role of Scarlet O'Hara and
then as Scarlet's younger sister Suellen in 'Gone with the Wind'
(1939). She lost out to both Vivien Leigh and Evelyn Keyes. Georgiana
blamed her lack of success on her height, "I was taller than Vivien
Leigh, taller than Evelyn Keyes and Clark Gable - heck, I was taller
than Tara!"

Georgiana Young's most important role off-screen was guarding the
true identity of Loretta Young's love child Judy. Born Judy Young on
November 6, 1935. Her father was Clark Gable. Because of the morality
clause in both Gable and Loretta's contracts and the fact that Clark
Gable was married, Loretta Young brought Judy up as her adopted
daughter. "It was obvious just by looking at Judy who her father
was," said Georgiana, "but I never told. I lost out on movie roles
because producers said they would give me wonderful roles if I told,
but I didn't, I wouldn't tell, so that was that." The secret remained
so until the late 1950s.

Georgiana also lost out on the role of Whitey to Marian Martin
in 'Boom Town' (1940) starring Clark Gable and to Luana Walters in
the Buck Jones western 'Arizona Bound' (1941). When she did
eventually succeed and take the lead in Herbert Wilcox movie 'No, No
Nanette' (1940), it was all too short lived. Three days into shooting
Wilcox decided he was in love with Anna Neagle and re-cast Georgiana
as a show girl instead.

It was whilst Georgiana was modeling between movies that she caught
the eye of 'Latin lover' Ricardo Montalban. He was a friend of Sally
Blane's husband Norman Foster and whilst working on a Mexican film
directed by Foster noticed Georgiana on set one day, "He said later
on that after one glance he knew we'd marry," said Georgiana, "And I
believed him." They married on October 26, 1944.

During the 1940s, Georgiana curtailed her modeling work (she modeled
for Lux Soap, Coke Cola, Ford and was an early Levis model), and
concentrated on her husbands career, accompanying him the work whilst
he splashed around with Esther Williams in the aquatic
melodrama "Neptune's Daughter" (1949), and the Film Noir
classic "Border incident" (1949), in which she had a small un-billed
cameo. Throughout the 1950s, Georgiana appeared on Loretta's highly
successful TV chat show. Asked why their marriage succeeded where so
many fail in Hollywood, Georgiana said, "because we have a sense of
humour and best friends and trust one another."

Georgiana Young admitted being in awe of her sister Loretta. "I
simply felt I'd never achieve what she achieved so never tried," she
said. Loretta Young who affectionately nicknamed her sister 'Georgie'
died in August, 2000 from ovarian cancer at Georgiana and Ricardo
Montalban's home. Sally Blane and Polly Ann Young also succumbed to
cancer.

Georgiana Young who died on November 13, has been interred in the
Young's family plot in the Holy Cross Cemetery in Culver City, close
to the former site of MGM studios, is survived by Ricardo Montalban
and their four children; Laura Montalban is a successful clothing
designer.


MICHAEL BLODGETT Died Nov. 14, 2007

Actor and writer Michael Blodgett died at age 67. He is best
remembered for his role as pretty boy actor Lance Rocke in Russ Meyer
and Roger Ebert's cult classic "Beyond the Valley of the Dolls."
Horror movie fans remember Mr. Blodgett for his starring role in "The
Velvet Vampire." Mr. Blodgett had a memorable cameo in the Henry
Fonda/Kirk Douglas Western "There Was a Crooked Man." He takes one of
the most sever whipping ever captured on film in that movie. Mr.
Blodgett turned to screenwriting when he failed to get better roles
or roles tat didn't accent his good looks. Mr. Blodgett wrote the hit
film "Turner and Hooch," Chuck Norris' "The Hero and the Terror" and
Burt Reynolds' "Rent-A-Cop." Mr. Blodgett was married to actress
Meredith Baxter from 1995 through 2000.


RONNIE BURNS Died Nov. 14, 2007

Former actor turned boat racer and businessman Ronnie Burns died of
cancer at age 72. Mr. Burns was the adopted son of George Burns and
Gracie Allen. He worked with his parents on the TV show "The George
Burns and Gracie Allen Show." He also worked with his father on "The
George Burns Show." Mr. Allen's acting credits "The
Honeymooners," "Playhouse 90" and "The Millionaire." He played the
title role in the crime drama "Anatomy of a Psycho."


JOE BABAS Died Nov. 14, 2007

Key grip, second unit director and production designer Joe Babas died
at age 62. Mr. Babas was production designer on the prison
drama "Short Eyes." He worked as first AD on the TV movie "A Mistaken
Charity." Mr. Babas was key grip on such films and TV shows as "G-
String Divas" and "Enormous Changes at the Last Minute."


STEVEN WILLIS Died Nov. 14, 2007

Propmaker Steven Willis died at age 58. Mr. Willis was a member of
I.A.T.S.E. Local #44. His film credits
include "Spaceballs," "Lifestinks" and "Erin Brockovich."


PIERRE GRANIER-DEFERRE Died Nov. 16, 2007

Award-winning French writer/director Pierre Granier-Deferre died of
natural causes at age 80. Mr. Granier-Deferre won the French Cesar
Award for Best Writing: Adapted for his 1982 film "The North Star."
He was nominated for a Best Director and Best Writer Cesar for the
film "A Strange Affair." That movie also won a prize at the Berlin
International Film Festival. Other credits include "Le Train"
and "The Cage." He also wrote 14 scripts for TV movies based on
the "Inspector Maigret" novels.


GAIL SHERIDAN Died Nov. 17, 2007

Filmmaker Austin Mutti-Mewse, director of the documentary "I Used to
Be In Pictures" has informed me that yet another actress from the
1930s has passed away. My thanks to Austin for the following tribute:
Gail Sheridan, the 1930s Hollywood ingénue and leading lady to
William "Hopalong" Boyd, was considered one of Tinsel Town's most
beautiful brunette's. Born in San Francisco on April 17, 1915, Gail
arrived in Hollywood as a dancer in the mid-1930s and began to appear
in movie musicals, including 'Strike Me Pink' (1936), opposite Eddie
Cantor and Ethel Merman. Apt and comedy she was easily a match for
Lucille Ball early on, appearing with Jack Oakie in 'Florida Special'
(1937), with Jack Haley and Grace Bradley in the comedy 'F-Man' (also
1936), 'College Holiday' (1936) and with comedienne Ann Sothern
in 'My American Wife' (1937). Gail Sheridan was quickly befriended by
actors and directors alike and became known as one of Hollywood's
most likeable ladies. Dubbed 'Hollywood's Kindest Actress' she
starred as William Boyd's leading lady in the western, 'Hopalong
Cassidy Returns' (1936), easily the best of the Hopalong Cassidy
series, the movie won Gail Sheridan good reviews. She followed this
with Cecil B. DeMille's 'The Plainsman' (1936), starring Gary Cooper.
Gossip had it that if Miss Sheridan had succumbed to DeMille's
advances at his home Paradise Ranch during a weekend stay her role
may have transpired into the lead, however, the rebuked director cast
Sheridan in a lesser role instead. She returned to the arms of
Hopalong Cassidy for 'The Hills of Wyoming' (1937), and after several
minor parts retired in 1939. Sheridan's death was reported by her
friend actress Dorothy Dare, who along with Miriam Hopkins and Amelia
Earhart was Gail's closest friend. Gail Sheridan died after suffering
a stroke at the home of her former secretary at the age of 92 on
November 17, 2007.


HOLLIS ALPERT Died Nov. 18, 2007

Writer and film critic Hollis Alpert died at age 91. Mr. Alpert was
Editor-in-Chief of "American Film" magazine as well as film critic
for the "Saturday Review." He and film critic Pauline Kael founded
the National Society of Film Critics in 1966. Like many guys my age,
my first exposure to the writings of Hollis Alpert came through his
work in "Playboy" magazine where he wrote the "History of Sex in the
Cinema." Mr. Alpert wrote numerous biographies including works on
Fellini, the Barrymores, Charlton Heston and Richard Burton.


GOLDA OFFENHEIM Died Nov. 18, 2007

British production coordinator Golda Offenheim died. Her age was not
given. Ms. Offenheim was production secretary on such films as "The
Guns of Navarone" and Norman Jewison's "Fiddler on the Roof." Ms.
Offenheim worked with Mr. Jewison on the original version
of "Rollerball." She mentored such people as line producer Patricia
Carr 1970s. Ms. Offenheim worked on several James Bond films
including "From Russia With Love" and "The Spy Who Loved Me." She
worked as a production assistant and production coordinator for Dino
De Laurentis on the films "Flash Gordon" and "Dune." Other credits
include Milos Forman's "Ragtime," "Red Sonja" and "Daylight."

"Star Wars" production manager Patricia Carr remembered her mentor
like this: Golda Offenheim was a legend in the UK film production
community - and beyond. She was the doyenne of production co-
ordinators, but she was so much more than that; she knew the film
business inside out,and she devoted her life to it. Small in stature,
but with a huge personality and an enormous heart also, she was a
production powerhouse, as anyone who knew her would attest. I was
lucky enough to be employed as her assistant on "Fiddler on the Roof"
in 1970, and I owe so much to her for allowing me to learn my trade
at her side. Thank you, Golda, may you rest in peace.


GYORGY MIKLOSY Died Nov. 18, 2007

Hungarian stage and screen actor Gyorgy Miklosy died at age 82. Mr.
Miklosy was honored with numerous awards including the Little Cross
for the Order of the Hungarian Republic. He appeared in nearly 90
films during his career. He also enjoyed a successful stage career.
Mr. Miklosy played a police officer in the excellent HBO true-crime
film "Citizen X." Other credits include "Miss Arizona" and "Diary for
my Parents."


JAMES M. HART Died Nov. 19, 2007

Special effects technician James M. Hart died at age 64. Mr. Hart had
been a member of the I.A.T.S.E. Local #44 for 33 years. His film
credits include "Under the Rainbow," the US remake of "The Vanishing"
and "Apollo 13."


DICK WILSON Died Nov. 19, 2007

Actor Dick Wilson died of natural causes at age 91. Though Mr. Wilson
appeared in nearly 100 films and TV shows he was best known for
portraying the character Mr. Whipple in over 500 TV commercials for
Charmin toilet paper. For decades Mr. Whipple implored female
shoppers to "Please, don't squeeze the Charmin!" only to have the
female shopper then bust him for squeezing the same tissue. It was
one of the most effective ad campaigns in TV history. Dick Wilson
began working as a DJ in Canada while still a teen. Next to his stint
as Mr. Whipple, Dick Wilson was also well known for playing 'drunk'
characters in a number of TV shows including "Bewitched." He played
Captain Gruber on the hit series "Hogan's Heroes." Mr. Wilson's
feature film appearances include "What a Way To Go," "Our Man
Flint," "Caprice," "Stay Away Joe," "The Shakiest Gun in the West"
and "The Incredible Shrinking Woman."


PAUL BRODIE Died Nov. 19, 2007

Canadian classical saxophone master Paul Brodie died during heart
surgery at age 73. Paul Brodie was honored by his native land as an
Officer of the Order of Canada for his work as "Canada's ambassador
of classical saxophone and founder of the World Saxophone Congress."
Mr. Brodie's music can be heard on the soundtracks of the Richard
Burton/Tatum O'Neil movie "Circle of Two" as well as Warren
Beatty's "Heaven Can Wait." Warren Beatty himself sought out Mr.
Brodie to play on the soundtrack. Whenever you hear Warren Beatty's
character playing the alto sax in "Heaven Can Wait" it is actually
Paul Brodie playing. The score for "Heaven Can Wait" earned an Oscar
nomination for Dave Grusin. Mr. Brodie can be heard on over 50 albums
and is considered to be the most recorded classical saxophone player
in history.


SLAVKO SIMIC Died Nov. 20, 2007

Serbian actor Slavko Simic died of cancer at age 83. Mr. Simic
appeared in nearly 100 films and TV shows during a career that began
in the 1940s. His credits include "Horoscope," "Hitler on Our Street"
and "Tren."


ALAN BARNARD Death announced Nov. 21, 2007

Special effects technician Alan Barnard died at age 79. The exact
date of death was not announced, but it was revealed that Mr. Barnard
died in October. Mr. Barnard worked on such films as "Lawrence of
Arabia," "Dr. Zhivago," "The Dirty
Dozen," "Dragonslayer," "Lifeforce," "Gandhi," "Superman," "Moonraker,
" "Octopussy," "Indiana Jones and The Last Crusade" and "Full Metal
Jacket."


FERNANDO FERNAN-GOMEZ Died Nov. 21, 2007

Award-winning actor/writer and director Fernando Fernan-Gomez died at
age 86. Mr. Fernan-Gomez won multiple awards for his acting, writing
and directing. The Spanish artist acted in over 200 films during his
career. He wrote and directed another 30! He co-starred in the Oscar
winning Best Foreign film "Belle Epoque." Mr. Fernan-Gomez received
11 Goya nominations during his career. Two as Best Director, three
for Best Screenplay, five as Best Actor and one as Best Supporting
Actor. He won The Goya is Spain's equivalent to the Oscar. He won six
times! Two as Best Actor, two Best Screenplay and one each as Best
Director and Best Supporting Actor. Mr. Fernan-Gomez won numerous
other awards at film festivals around the world. Mr. Fernan-Gomez was
also a successful novelist and playwright. His other film credits
include "The Spirit of the Beehive" and Pedro Almodovar's "All About
My Mother."


ROBERT ETCHEVERRY Died Nov. 21, 2007

French actor Robert Etcheverry died at age 70. Mr. Etcheverry was a
popular TV star in his native land during the 1960s and 70s. He was a
semi-regular on the long-running TV series "Poly." Other credits
include "Sex is Beautiful" and "Terminate With Extreme Prejudice."


MAURICE BEJART Died Nov. 22, 2007

Ballet choreographer Maurice Bejart died at age 80. Mr. Bejart was
considered opne of the most innovative modern ballet choreographers.
He choreographed and directed a number of ballet films and TV
specials including his updated version of "The Nutcracker."


REG PARK Died Nov. 22, 2007

Bodybuilder and actor Reg Park died of melanoma at age 79. Mr. Park
was a three time Mr. Universe bodybuilding champion. He starred as
Hercules in several Italian sword and sandal epics. His film credits
include "Hercules and the Captive Women," "Hercules in the Haunted
World," "Hercules, Prisoner of Evil," "Hercules the Avenger"
and "Samson in King Solomon's Mines." Mr. Park was an early mentor to
Arnold Schwarzenegger, encouraging his film career.


VERITY LAMBERT Died Nov. 22, 2007

Award-winning British TV producer Verity Lambert died five days shy
of her 72nd birthday. Ms. Lambert was the first female TV producer
for the BBC. She was a producer on the original "Dr. Who" TV series,
which premiered almost 40 years ago to the date of her death. Ms.
Lambert was due to receive the Lifetime Achievement Award at the
Women in Film and Television Awards in December. Verity Lambert was
nominated for an Emmy, five BAFTAs and an Australian Film Insititute
Award for her work. She won a BAFTA for the series "W. Somerset
Maugham." She also won the AFI award for producing "A Cry in the
Dark." Other credits include the TV series "The Norman
Conquests," "Quatermass" and the movie "Morons From Outer Space."


GEORGE PETRARCA Died Nov. 23, 2007

Actor and dialogue coach George Petrarca died at age 84. Mr. Petrarca
appeared in the TV shows "House Calls" and "The Good Guys." He was
the dialogue coach on the film "A Lovely Way to Die."


INGE LANGEN Died Nov. 23, 2007

German actress Inge Langen died at age 83. Ms. Langen appeared in
over 20 films and TV shows during her 20-year-acting career. She
appeared in two Edgar Wallace thrillers: "The Squeaker" and "Gorilla
Gang." Her other credits include "Destination Death" and "Crunch."


MARTHA KOSTYRA Died Nov. 24, 2007

Hug your mother today. She might not be here tomorrow. Think a nice
thought about her if she is gone. My mother is still with me. I'm
lucky that way. My mother encouraged my imagination and instilled in
me a sense of justice and caring that I use everyday in my work as a
public defender. These thoughts came to me as I read about Martha
Kosyra, the mother of Martha Stewart. What an impact that mother has
had on our society. She raised her children and taught them many,
many things. Many of the things she taught her daughter Martha, Ms.
Stewart has passed on to the public. Simple pleasures about making a
house a home. Knowledge from one generation to another. I'm sure that
Ms. Kostyra was overjoyed that her daughter was able to build on what
she taught her and turn it into an incredible business empire. From
what I've read of Ms. Kostyra I'm sure she would have been just as
pleased in her daughter had just continued to pass on the family
heritage to a new generation of Stewarts. Martha Kostyra died at age
93. She appeared on several episodes of her daughter's TV series "The
Martha Stewart Show." She also appeared with her daughter on "Larry
King Live." Go hug your mother. Thank her for what she has passed on
to you.


LINDA LAWLEY Died Nov. 24, 2007

Singer/songwriter Linda Lawley died of cancer at age 58. Ms. Lawley
was the wife and songwriting partner of Danny Pelfry. Ms. Lawley
began her music career fronting the rock band Eternity's Children.
She appeared on Broadway in the musical "Hair." She later wrote songs
with other people including her husband Danny Pelfry. Ms. Lawley
added her talents to such films as "The Big Kahuna" and "Enemy of the
State."


KEVIN DUBROW Died Nov. 25, 2007

Rocker Kevin DuBrow died of a cocaine overdose at age 52. Mr. DuBrow
was found dead in his home in Las Vegas. Kevin DuBrow was the lead
singer and co-founder of the band "Quiet Riot." The band was the
first heavy metal band to have a #1 album on the Billboard charts. I
saw Quiet Riot open for ZZ Top at the Aladdin Theater when I lived in
Las Vegas. They were without a doubt the loudest band I've ever heard
in all my years of concert-going. I actually developed a severe
headache which didn't subside until they left the stage. That aside,
I did enjoy their music when I was able to control the volume. Mr.
DuBrow's songs can be heard on the soundtracks of such films as "The
Sure Thing," "Switch" and "Crank." He appeared in several music
documentaries including an episode of VH1's "Behind the Music."
Prayers of comfort for his family and friends.


PETER HAAS Died Nov. 25, 2007

Publicist Peter Haas died at age 51. Mr. Haas worked for the PMK
Agency as well as an independent agent. He worked on such films
as "Dances with Wolves," "Heat," "Last of the Mohicans," "Apt
Pupil," "Dante's Peak," "Serial Mom" and "Hoffa."


DR. ROBERT HEPBURN Died Nov. 26, 2007

Dr. Robert Hepburn, brother of the late actress Katherine Hepburn
died at age 94. Dr. Hepburn appeared in the documentary TV
show "Biography: Katherine Hepburn: On Her Own Terms." Dr. Hepburn
served his country as a Naval doctor in the Pacific during WWII and
was present at the Battle of Okinawa.


MEL TOLKIN Died Nov. 26, 2007

Emmy-winning writer/producer Mel Tolkin died at age 94. Mr. Tolkin
was nominated multiple times for Emmy Awards, winning for the TV
special "Your Show of Shows Revisited." His work with Sid Ceasar was
featured in the great documentary film "Ten From Your Show of Shows."
Mr. Tolkin won a Humanitas Prize for his work on the hit TV
series "All in the Family." Other writing credits include "The Good
Guys," "Archie Bunker's Place" and "Sanford." He wrote and produced
the feature film "The Last of the Secret Agents?" He was the father
of Oscar-nominated screenwriter Michael Tolkin (The Player) and
director/screenwriter Stephen Tolkin. Mr. Tolkin served in the
Canadian Army during WWII.


JOE RESTIVO Died Nov. 26, 2007

Actor and stand-up comic Joe Restivo died of lung cancer. Joe Restivo
appeared in a number of films and TV shows including "The Death of a
Centerfold: The Dorothy Stratten Story," "Seinfeld," "Hill Street
Blues" and "Tales From the Crypt." He was a radio film critic on the
nationally syndicated show "Vinny Goes to the Movies." Mr. Restivo
served his country by organizing and leading entertainment troupes
overseas to entertain the men and women of the armed forces. Thanks
for the laughs and thanks for bringing joy to those in harm's way.


MARIT ALLEN Died Nov. 26, 2007

Emmy and BAFTA-nominated costumer designer Marit Allen died of a
brain aneurism at age 66. Ms. Allen was nominated twice for Emmy
Awards. Her Emmy nominations were for "Snow White: A Tale of Terror"
and the miniseries "Scarlett." Her BAFTA nomination came for her work
on the true-crime tale "White Mischief." She received a CDG Award
nomination from the Costumer's Guild for her work on Stanley
Kubrick's final film "Eyes Wide Shut." She was Julie Christie's
wardrobe person on the classic horror film "Don't Look Now." Her
costume design credits include "Bad Timing," "The Witches," "Mrs.
Doubtfire," the musical remake of "Little Shop of Horrors"
and "Brokeback Mountain."


JANE RULE Died Nov. 27, 2007

Writer Jane Rule died of liver cancer at age 76. The lesbian author
wrote the book "Desert of the Heart" which was turned into the
feature film "Desert Heart's." Helen Shaver starred in the film about
a woman living in a Nevada motel to establish residency for a divorce
during the 1950s. She falls for the daughter of a local ranch owner.
A pretty good romantic film with a twist. Ms. Rule also appeared in
the documentary film "Little Sister's vs. Big Brother."


BILL MOOR Died Nov. 27, 2007

Award-winning actor Bill Moor died at age 76. Mr. Moor enjoyed
success on stage and screen. He studied with Lee Strasberg and Stella
Adler in the 1950s and 60s. Mr. Moor won an Obie Award for his
performance in the off-Broadway play "The Marriage of Bette and Boo."
He played the Florida judge in the opening and closing scenes of "The
Devil's Advocate." Other notable film and TV credits include "Kramer
vs. Kramer," "Ishtar," "Quiz Show," "Law & Order," "New York
Stories," "Ryan's Hope," "The Seduction of Joe Tynan" and "Kojak."


JEANNE BATES Died Nov. 28, 2007

Prolific character actress Jeanne Bates died at age 89. Ms. Bates
appeared in over 100 films and TV shows during her lengthy career.
She also enjoyed a successful stage career. Ms. Bates may be best
remembered for her role as Mrs. X in David Lynch's experimental cult
classic "Eraserhead." She also worked with director Lynch
on "Mulholland Drive." Among ms. Bates many film credits include "Die
hard 2," "Wild Orchard 2" and "Grand Canyon." Ms. Bates co-starred in
the famous "Twilight Zone" episode "It's a Good Life!" There are few
TV shows from the 1950s, 60s and 70s that Ms. Bates did not appear on.


MALI FINN Died Nov. 28, 2007

Emmy-winning casting director Mali Finn died of melanoma at age 69.
Ms. Mali won an Emmy award for the HBO movie "61*." She was nominated
for another Emmy for "Indictment: The McMartin Trial." Ms. Finn was
honored by her peers at the Casting Society of America with six
Artios nominations. She won three for "Sunday," "L.A. Confidential"
and "61*." Ms. Finn's many credits include "Titanic," "The
Matrix," "Terminator 2: Judgment Day," "The Client," "The Green
Mile," "8 Mile," "The Untouchables" and "Flatliners."


TONY HOLLAND Died Nov. 29, 2007

British writer Tony Holland died at age 67. Mr. Holland was the co-
creator of the long-running hit series "EastEnders." Mr. Holland also
wrote hundreds of scripts for the series which began in 1985. Mr.
Holland wrote several scripts and was the script editor on over 150
episodes of the cop drama "Z Cars." Other credits
include "Eldorado," "Cold Warrior," "Angels" and "The District
Nurse."


ROGER B. SMITH Died Nov. 29, 2007

Former GM CEO Roger B. Smith died at age 82. Mr. Smith was head of
the auto industry giant from 1981 through 1990. Filmmaker Michael
Moore's breakthrough documentary "Roger & Me" dealt with the hard
times in Flint Michigan brought about by cutbacks at GM. Mr. Smith
was the Roger of the film's title. The movie chronicled Michael
Moore's attempts to interview Mr. Smith.


EVEL KNIEVEL Died Nov. 30, 2007

He was a lone wolf hero who defied death for a living. Next to the
NASA astronauts, there were few in the 1960s and 70s who held the
attention of all generations the way Robert 'Evel' Knievel did. The
motorcycle daredevil risked his health to try and achieve the
impossible. Many of his goals he achieved. Other left him broken in
body but not spirit. You couldn't help but be amazed that a man who
suffer injuries like Evel Knievel did, would then get back on the
back of his motorcycle and try again. He personified the pioneer
American spirit. Get 'er done. Didn't hit the mark the first time.
Try again. No bellyaching, just get 'er done. Everytime I watch
the "ABC Wide World of Sports" film of Evel Knievel's horrific crash
at Caesar's Palace, I stand in awe of the man. How can you break 40
bones and ever try again. This is what made him a hero to so many
during a time when Vietnam, corrupt politicians, racist national
policies and the disintergration of the family seemed to overwhelm
society. Evel Knievel's actions said "sure things are tough, but I
won't quit till I'm dead." Actor George Hamilton played the daredevil
in the biopic "Evel Knievel." At the end of that film, Knievel is
shown riding a motorcycle to the edge of the Grand Canyon. Jumping
the Grand Canyon was one of the dreams he didn't achieve. His attempt
to jump the Snake River Canyon failed when the parachute on his two
wheeled rocket deployed during launch. He kept on trying. He kept his
fans dreaming of what was possible. Thanks for that. Evel Knievel
played himself in the 1977 feature film "Viva Knievel." He was James
Caan's motorcycle stunt double in the politically incorrect cop
comedy "Freebie and the Bean." Evel Knievel was the father of
daredevil Robbie Knievel. Actor George Eads played him in the 2004
Made for TV movie "Evel Knievel." Sam Elliot played him in an unsold
1974 TV pilot. Evel Knievel died of pulmonary fibrosis at age 69.
Thanks for the thrills and never-say-die spirit.


ANTON RODGERS Died Dec. 1, 2007

British stage and screen actor Anton Rodgers died at age 74. He
appeared in over 90 films and TV shows during his lengthy career. Mr.
Rodgers was best known to British TV audiences for her work on the
series "Fresh Fields" and "May to December." Mr. Rodgers many film
credits include the Roger Moore film "The Man Who Haunted Himself,"
Albert Finney's "Scrooge," "Where Eagles Dare," Fred Zinnemann's
classic "The Day of the Jackal," "Dirty Rotten Scoundrels" and "Son
of the Pink Panther."


TED STEINBERG Died Dec. 1, 2007

Writer/producer Ted Steinberg died of pancreatic cancer at age 64.
Mr. Steinberg co-wrote and produced Lionel Chetwynd's "Celsius 41.11:
The Temperature at Which the Brain…Begins to Die." The documentary
was a conservative response to Michael Moore's "Fahrenheit 9/11." Mr.
Steinberg's other credits include "Get Out the Vote," "The Earth Day
Special" and "Victory & Valor: Special Olympics World Games."


ELEONORA ROSSI DRAGO Died Dec. 2, 2007

Award-winning Italian actress Eleonora Rossi Drago died of a brain
aneurysm at age 82. Ms. Drago won Best Actress awards from the
Italian National Syndicate of Film Journalists and the Mar Del Plate
Film Festival for her performance in the 1959 film "Violent Summer."
She appeared in nearly films in a career that spanned the years 1949
through 1970. She retired from acting after getting married. Ms.
Drago's film credits include Edgar Ulmer's "Pirates of
Capri," "Sensualita" with Marcello Mastroianni, Michelangelo
Antonioni's "The Girlfriends," "David and Goliath," "Under Ten
Flags," "Sword of the Conqueror," "Assassination in Rome," as Lot's
Wife in John Huston's "The Bible," in the Helmut Berger version
of "Dorian Gray" and in Radley Metzger's stylish soft-core
erotica "Camille 2000."


SPAIN LOGUE Died Dec. 3, 2007

Actor Spain Logue died of AIDS at age 60. Mr. Logue appeared in the
1979 Broadway production of "Sweeney Todd." He was also in a filmed
TV production of the play. His film and TV credits include Oliver
Stone's "JFK" and "All My Children." Mr. Logue had another connection
to the assassination of President Kennedy. His cousin was on the
grassy knoll the day the president was killed. His cousin and wife
appear in a famous photograph laying on the ground shielding their
child from gunfire.


DORTHY LECOUR-COURTOIS Died Dec. 3, 2007

Film producer and National Film Board of Canada studio-administrator
Dorothy Lecour-Courtois died of cancer. Her age was not given. Ms.
Lecour-Courtois was with the Film Board for nearly 30 years. She was
an associate producer on the award-winning film "The Tin Flute."


KARLHEINZ STOCKHAUSEN Died Dec. 3, 2007

German composer Karlheinz Stockhausen died of undisclosed causes at
age 79. Mr. Stockhausen was a pioneer in electronic and avant-garde
music. His music was used in several films including Nicholas
Roeg's "Walkabout." He was one of the many faces to grace the cover
of the Beatles' "Sgt Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Band" album (to the
left of W.C. Fields). Mr. Stockhausen incurred the wrath of many when
he stated that the 9/11 attacks on the US were "the greatest work of
art one can imagine."


GARY SHAFFER Died Dec. 3, 2007

Casting director Gary Shaffer died of cancer at age 72. Mr. Shaffer
was nominated for an Artios Award by his peers at the Casting Society
of America for his work on the TV series "Dynasty." His many credits
include "Life with Lucy," "Matt Houston," "Vega$," "She's Dressed to
Kill," "In the Matter of Karen Ann Quinlan," "CHiPs," "The Deadly
Tower," "Harry in Your Pocket" and " "The Courtship of Eddie's
Father."


DANNY DUKES Died Dec. 3, 2007

Adult film actor Danny Dukes (real name Danny Salas Jr.) died of a
drug overdose at age 33. Mr. Dukes acted in several adult films
between 2002 and 2004. He was also a sometime agent. He leaves behind
a young son. Prayers of comfort for his family and friends. Some say
that the adult film industry leads to drug abuse. Of course there are
enough examples of legit film industry insiders getting hooked on
drugs to make one wonder about such blanket condemnations. However,
the bottom line is this, drugs will kill you. First they will kill
your soul, then your body. All that remains is the pain you leave
behind because you didn't care enough to fight the addiction.


KEN SOUTHWORTH Died Dec. 5, 2007

Veteran animator Ken Southworth died of a series of strokes at age
89. Mr. Southworth worked for most of the major animation houses
during his lengthy career. He spent the bulk of his career with Hanna-
Barbera. His many credits include "Song of the South," "The Three
Caballeros," "Tom and Jerry" "Davy and Goliath," "Shinbone
Alley," "Smurfs," "Scooby Doo! Where Are You?," "Johnny Quest"
and "Pinocchio and the Emperor of the Night." In addition to his work
as an animator he directed episodes of the PBS series "Book of
Virtues."


JILLIAN KESNER Died Dec. 5, 2007

Actress Jillian Kesner died of a staph infection at age 57. Ms.
Kesner had been battling leukemia. Jillian Kesner was the widow of
director Gary Graver. Ms. Kesner was a former martial artist and B-
movie actress. She met her future husband when she appeared in the
movie "The Student Body." Mr. Graver was the cinematographer. The
film had a footnote in history as the movie that Randall Adams was
watching the night of the murder of a Dallas policeman. Mr. Adams was
falsely accused of the murder. The case was the subject of the
excellent documentary "The Thin Blue Line" in which scenes from Ms.
Kenser's film were shown. Jillian Kesner's husband died last year.
She worked with him on the documentary "Working With Orson Welles."
Ms. Kesner's many acting credits include "Inferno," "Beverly Hills
Vamp," "T.J. Hooker," "Mork & Mindy," "The Rockford Files," "Happy
Days" and "S.W.A.T."


TONY TENSER Died Dec. 5, 2007

Tigon British Film Productions founder and beloved horror movie
producer Tony Tenser died at age 87. Mr. Tenser once said that only
two things are guaranteed to sell a movie: Sex and Horror. Mr. Tenser
began his career with Sex and had his biggest impact with the Horror
genre. Mr. Tenser's first film was a producer was the Pamela Green
nudie "Naked as Nature Intended." Today's film audience is indebted
to Mr. Tenser for his support of directors Roman Polanski and Michael
Reeves. Mr. Tenser produced Roman Polanski's first two English
language films, the horror classic "Repulsion" and the black
comedy "Cul-De-Sac." Mr. Tenser produced the last two films of
British director Michael Reeves including his 1968 masterpiece "The
Witchfinder General." Unfortunately Michael Reeves died at age 25 of
a drug overdose. Mr. Tenser's other genre credits include "The
Crimson Cult," "Doomwatch" and "The Beast in the Celler." He also
produced the Raquel Welch/Jim Brown Western "Hannie Caulder." The
film was redeemed by a memorable cameo by Christopher Lee as a master
gunsmith.


JOE BROOKS Died Dec. 5, 2007

Actor/stuntman/assistant director Joe Brooks died at age 83. Mr.
Brooks was best known for his comedic role as Trooper Vanderbilt, the
nearly-blind sentry on the TV series "F Troop." Mr. Brooks appeared
in over 30 films and TV shows during his career. His acting credits
include "The Fighting Seabees," "East of Eden," "The Young
Philadelphians," "Flaming Star," "Robin and the Seven Hoods," the
original version of "The Bad News Bears," "The Big Bus"
and "Gremlins." Mr. Brooks did stunt work on the original version
of "Vanishing Point." Mr. Brooks worked as a second unit director on
John Huston's "The Dead" and John Huston's son Danny's "Mr. North."


DODE WEYANT Died Dec. 5, 2007

Negative cutter and business woman Dode Weyant died at age 77. Ms.
Weyant helped edit such films as "'night, Mother," John
Carpenter's "Prince of Darkness," "Satisfaction" and "Bat*21."


BERNARD BALMUTH Died Dec. 6, 2007

Emmy-nominated film editor and teacher Bernard Balmuth died at age
89. Mr. Balmuth was nominated for an Emmy for his work on the Michael
J. Fox TV series "Palmerstown, U.S.A." Other credits include the
excellent miniseries "QBVII," "The Monkees," "Taxi" and "Flight 90:
Disaster on the Potomac." Mr. Balmuth passed his skills on to others
as a teacher at U.C.L.A. and through his book "Introduction to Film
Editing."


TOM MILLER Died Dec. 6, 2007

Publicist and novelist Tom Miller died at age 85 following a brief
illness. Mr. Miller was the publicist for a number of well known
films. He helped get the word out about such films as "Alex in
Wonderland," "Shaft," "The Graduate," "Dr. Zhivago," "Ryan's
Daughter," "The Gang That Couldn't Shoot Straight," the original
version of "The Producers," "The Effect of Gamma Rays on Man-in-the-
Moon-Marigolds," Robert Mitchum's "The Wrath of God," "The Last
American Hero," Brian DePalma's "Blow Out" and Francis Ford
Coppola's "The Cotton Club." Tom Miller wrote several novels
including "Boy at Sea." Mr. Miller served his country in the US Coast
Guard during WWII and saw action at the Battle of Leyte Gulf.


ANDRAS SZOLLOSY Died Dec. 6, 2007

Hungarian composer Andras Szollosy died at age 87. Mr. Szollosy was
an internationally renowned classical composer. He was honored with
the Lifetime Achievement Award by the Hungarian Film Week in 2000.
Mr. Szollosy composed the scores for a number of films
including "Shadow on the Snow," "80 Hussars," "Baptism," "Red Letter
Days" and "Current."


MEL CHEREN Died Dec. 7, 2007

Mel Cheren, the Godfather of Disco died of AIDS related illness at
age 74. Mr. Cheren was a record producer for ABC/Paramount, Scepter
Records and his own label West End Records. He co-founded the club
the Paradise Garage. Mr. Cheren produced and was the subject of the
documentary film "The Godfather of Disco." The movie was based on his
autobiography "My Life and the Paradise Garage: Keep on Dancin'." Mr.
Cheren also appeared in the documentaries "NY77: The Coolest Year in
Hell" and the award-winning "Gay Sex in the 70s."


PETER ORTON Death announced Dec. 7, 2007

HIT Entertainment founder Peter Orton died after an 11-year battle
with throat cancer at age 64. Mr. Orton's company was one of the
world leaders in children's entertainment. HIT shows such as "Bob the
Builder," "Thomas the Tank Engine" and "Barney" have entertained and
educated children for years. Mr. Orton retired from HIT after it was
sold in 2005. He then dedicated his time to charitable work and
raising awareness for cancer research. I will always have fond
memories of fixing my daughter Lauren breakfast and watching "Bob the
Builder" before taking her to first grade classes. Thanks for the
together time your shows provided for millions of parents and their
children.


SAMUEL ROBERT CASSEL Died Dec. 8, 2007

VP of Development ofr Scott Rudin Productions Samuel Robert Cassel
was killed in a car crash. Mr. Cassel was 28 years old. Mr. Cassel
worked with Mr. Rudin on such films as "The Queen," "The
Hours," "Team America," "Notes on a Scandal" and "No Country for Old
Men." Prayers of comfort for his family and friends.


ION FISCUTEANU Died Dec. 8, 2007

Award-winning Romanian actor Ion Fiscuteanu died of colon cancer at
age 70. Mr. Fiscuteanu gained international notice and several awards
for his performance in the dark comedy "The Death of Mr. Lazarescu."
The film about the last night in the life of a sarcastic alcoholic
was Mr. Fiscuteanu's final film. He won Best Actor Awards at the
Copenhagen and Transylvania Film Festivals for the film. Mr.
Fiscuteanu also enjoyed success as a stage actor in his native land.


ROGER KING Died Dec. 8, 2007

TV syndication tycoon Roger King died of a stroke at age 63. Mr. King
and his brother Michael founded King World Productions. The company
backed such hit shows as "Wheel of Fortune," "Jeopardy" and "The
Oprah Winfrey Show." Me. King was the producer of the 1994 feature
film "The Little Rascals."


DONALD BURTON Died Dec. 8, 2007

British actor Donald Burton died of emphysema at age 73. Mr. Burton
was married to actress Carol Baker. Mr. Burton worked primarily in TV
though he did appear in a few films including "Mohammed, Messenger of
God" and "Hudson Hawk." Mr. Burton's TV credits include "Z
Cars," "Upstairs, Downstairs," "Dixon of Dock Green" and the
miniseries "War and Peace."


CHRISTINA GORDON Died Dec. 9, 2007

Script supervisor Christina Gordon died of a brain aneurysm at age
47. Ms. Gordon worked on such films as "Breaking Point," "Stand
Up," "Pandemic" and "The Wailer." She was the producer and AD on "The
Wedding Video." Prayers of comfort for her family and friends.


LORETTA WEAVER Died Dec. 10, 2007

Former vaudeville and film actress Loretta Weaver died at age 96. Ms.
Weaver was the daughter of June Weaver. June Weaver and her husband
Frank and brother-in-law Leon made up the vaudeville act "The Weaver
Brothers and Elviry." Loretta Weaver appeared with the act on stage
and in a number of films during the 1930s and 40s. She played the
character Violey Weaver in such films as "Mountain
Moonlight," "Arkansas Judge," "Grand Ole Opry" and "In Old Missouri."


ASHLEIGH ASTON MOORE Died Dec. 10, 2007

Former child actress Ashleigh Aston Moore died of a drug overdose at
age 26. Ms. Moore was a child actress best known for her role in "Now
and Then." The film looked at four girl friends as children and as
adults. Ms. Moore and Rita Wilson played the same character as child
and adult respectively. Ms. Moore was a regular on the award-winning
sci-fi TV series "The Odyssey." Ms. Moore's final acting credit was a
1997 episode of "Touched By an Angel." Prayers of comfort for her
family and friends.


KIM FRY-MOSDELL Died Dec. 11, 2007

Napoleaon said that "an army travels on its stomach." I guess the
same thing applies to a film production. If not for the craft service
table a film crew would starve. Kim Fry-Mosdell was one of the army
of craft service people working behind the scenes to feel the hungry
army of filmmakers. She worked as craft services on such films
as "Air Bud 2," "Lake Placid" and "Psych." Ms. Fry-Mosdell died at
age 41 after a two-year illness. Prayers of comfort for her family
and friends.


FREDDIE FIELDS Died Dec. 11, 2007

CMA co-founder and film producer Freddie Fields died at age 84.
Freddie Fields and David Begelman created the super agency in 1959
and sold it in 1974. They represented some of the biggest A-List
stars and directors in Hollywood. Mr. Fields created the production
company First Artists with Paul Newman, Steve McQueen, Sidney
Portier, Barbra Streisand and Dustin Hoffman. Mr. Fields produced
such films as "Lipstick," "American Gigolo," "Looking for Mr.
Goodbar" and "Glory." His first wife was actress Polly Bergan and his
second wife was actress and former Miss Universe Corinna Tsopei.


JOHN ANDERSON Died Dec. 11, 2007

Animator John Anderson died of undisclosed causes at age 39. Mr.
Anderson worked on numerous projects including "Surf's
Up," "Madagascar" the remake of "House of Wax," "Lara Croft Tomb
Raider: The Cradle of Life," "The Lord of the Rings: The Two
Towers," "The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring," "Toy
Story 2" and "A Bug's Life." Prayers of comfort for his family and
friends.


IKE TURNER Died Dec. 12, 2007

Grammy-winning musician/composer and Rock and Roll pioneer Ike Turner
died of undisclosed causes at age 76. Ike Turner recorded the
song "Rocket 88" at Sam Phillip's Sun Studios. "Rocket 88" is
considered by many historians to be the very first Rock and Roll
song. Mr. Tuner was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in
1991. Ike Turner and his ex-wife Tina Turner were one of the hottest
musical acts of the 1960s and 70s. Turner's musical contributions
were overshadowed by ex-wife Tina Turner's revelation that he was an
extremely abusive husband and a drug addict during their stormy
marriage. Actor Laurence Fishburne received a Best Actor Oscar
nomination for his dark portrayal of Ike Turner in "What's Love Got
to Do With It." Ike Turner steadfastly denied the accusations of
abuse. The Ike and Tina Turner Revue put on one of the most energetic
stage shows in Rock history. The band appeared on numerous TV shows
and in the films "The Big TNT Show," "It's Your Thing" and "Gimme
Shelter." Mr. Turner's songs can be heard on the soundtracks of such
songs as "Kill Bill Vol. 1," "Blue Collar," the
original "Hairspray," "The Sopranos" and "Bull Durham."


SCHUSTER VANCE Died Dec. 12, 2007

Actor and stunt driver Schuster Vance died of cancer at age 47. Mr.
Vance appeared in such films as "The Sopranos," "Live Free or Die
Hard," "16 Blocks," "Annapolis," "xXx: State of the Union"
and "Wedding Crashers."


NANCY GREGORY MULLE Died Dec. 12, 2007

Assistant director and TV commercial producer Nancy Gregory Mulle
died of pancreatic cancer. Her age was not given. Ms. Mulle was an AD
on the Emmy-winning film "All Kids Do It" and the Emmy-nominated TV
special "I Think I'm Having a Baby." Mr. Mulle owned her own
production company which specialized in TV commercials.


SYBILLE SCHLOSS Died Dec. 12, 2007

German poet and actress Sybille Schloss died at age 97. Ms. Schloss
was the daughter of poet Karl Schloss who was killed by the Nazis at
Auschwitz in 1944. Ms. Schloss had a successful stage career in pre-
WWII Germany. She appeared in the silent documentary film "Hunger in
Waldenberg." Ms. Schloss came to the US just before WWII broke out.
Though a film career in the US never materialized she remained in
America until her death.


JOHN CLARK Died Dec. 12, 2007

Art director and architect John Clark died of heart failure at age
73. Mr. Clark helped define the look of several notable films. Mr.
Clark worked on 10 films during his film career. His film work was
sandwiched between his career as a successful architect. Mr. Clark's
film credits include such visually dazzling films
as "Performance," "Jesus Christ Superstar" and "Tommy." Other credits
include the underrated "Inserts" with Richard Dreyfuss, "The Offense"
with Sean Connery and "Secret Ceremony" with Elizabeth Taylor.


KEN PARRY Died Dec. 12, 2007

British actor Ken Parry died at age 77. Mr. Parry enjoyed success as
a stage actor as well as on TV and in feature films. His many credits
include "Dixon of Dock Green," "Z Cars," "The Avengers," the Richard
Burton/Liz Taylor version of "The Taming of the Shrew," the
hilarious "Start the Revolution Without Me," Ken Russell's outrageous
biopic "Lisztomania" and what is without a doubt the best naked space
vampire movie of all time Tobe Hooper's "Lifeforce."


LEN MARCUS Died Dec. 12, 2007

Costume designer Len Marcus died at age 66. Mr. Marcus' credits
include "Three's Company," "The Ropers" and "General Hospital."


LAURA HUXLEY Died Dec. 13, 2007

Writer Laura Huxley, the widow of Aldus Huxley died of cancer at age
96. Ms. Huxley wrote her husband's biography "This Timeless Moment: A
Personal View of Aldus Huxley." As her husband died on November 22,
1963 Ms. Huxley injected him with LSD, as per his wish. She appeared
in the documentaries "Drug Taking and the Arts" and "Aldus Huxley:
Darkness and Light."


PHILIPPE CLAY Died Dec. 13, 2007

French actor and singer Philippe Clay died of cardiac arrest at age
80. Mr. Clay appeared in over 80 films and TV shows during his
career. He was a successful recording and cabaret artist in Europe.
Mr. Clay's many credits include the Anthony Quinn version of "The
Hunchback of Notre Dame," "Bell Book and Candle" and "Lautrec." As a
teenager, Mr. Clay fought against the Nazis as a member of the French
Resistance.


FLOYD RED CROW WESERMAN Died Dec. 13, 2007

Singer turned actor Floyd Red Crow Westerman died of complications
from leukemia at age 71. Mr. Westerman was best known for his
portrayal of Ten Bears in Kevin Kosner's classic "Dances With
Wolves." Oliver Stone cast him as the Shaman in his mystic rock
bio "The Doors." Mr. Westerman had recurring roles on "Walker, Texas
Ranger," "D'harma & Greg," "Northern Exposure" and "The X-Files." Mr.
Westerman appeared in nearly 50 films, TV shows and documentaries.
Other credits include "Powwow Highway," "L.A.
Law," "Millennium," "Judging Amy" and "Hildago." Mr. Westerman was a
well known musician who performed with many top acts including Sting,
Willie Nelson and Bonnie Raitt.


ALAIN PAYET Died Dec. 13, 2007

French porn director Alain Payet died of cancer at age 60. Mr. Payet
directed nearly 100 films in a career that began in the mid-1970s.
Mr. Payet often made adult versions of mainstream French films. He
also shot a number of exploitation Nazi porn films.


ST. CLAIR BOURNE Died Dec. 14, 2007

Emmy-nominated producer/director St. Clair Bourne died of a pulmonary
embolism at age 64. Mr. Bourne was a noted documentary filmmaker who
chronicled Black culture in America. He shared an Emmy-nomination
for "Half Past Autumn: The Life and Work of Gordon Parks." He won the
IDA Award from the International Documentary Association
for "American Masters: Paul Robeson: Here I Stand." Other credits
include "Making 'Do the Right Thing,'" "John Henrik Clarke: A Great
and Mighty Walk" and "Pusher Man."


JACK GROSS JR. Died Dec. 14, 2007

Writer Jack Gross Jr. died at age 79. Mr. Gross wrote for a number of
TV sitcoms during the 1960s. He also contributed to the script for
Laurence Harvey's final film "Welcome to Arrow Beach." Laurence
Harvey also directed the B-horror movie. Mr. Gross' other credits
include "Gilligan's Island," "My Favorite Martian," "Tarzan," "Voyage
to the Bottom of the Sea" and "Diff'rent Strokes."


MARK CONNOLLY Died Dec. 14, 2007

Stuntman Mark Connolly died of pancreatic cancer at age 45. Mr.
Connolly worked on the films "Doom Runners" and "Babe: Pig in the
City." He was just beginning his career when he was severely injured
during a motorcycle stunt on the set of "Mission Impossible 2." Mr.
Connolly sued second unit director Billy Burton over his career-
ending injury. Mr. Connolly was awarded $1 Million dollars in damages
the same day that he died. Prayers of comfort for his family and
friends.


FRANK MORGAN Died Dec. 14, 2007

Saxophonist Frank Morgan died of colon cancer just shy of his 74th
birthday. Mr. Morgan was the son of Stanley Morgan, guitarist for The
Ink Spots. Mr. Morgan began performing and recording while still a
teen. He idolized Charlie Parker and began using heroin to be more
like his hero. This lead to a 30-year prison stretch. Mr. Morgan
paroled out in the mid 1980s and stayed clean the rest of his life.
He also returned to the world of recording and performing. Mr. Morgan
composed the music for the documentary film "Blue Neon Light: Michael
Connelly's Los Angeles."


GIUSEPPE RINALDI Died Dec. 15, 2007

Italian actor Giuseppi Rinaldi died at age 88. Mr. Rinaldi appeared
in a number of films during his lengthy career, however his area of
expertise was in dubbing the voices of American actors for the film's
Italian release. He dubbed several hundred films for most of the
major stars past and present. He voiced Marlon Brando in "The
Godfather," "The Chase" and "Last Tango in Paris." Mr. Rinaldi voiced
Paul Newman in a number of films including "Cat on a Hot Tin Roof"
and "The Sting." He also voiced Peter Seller's roles in "The Pink
Panther" and "Dr. Strangelove." Mr. Rinaldi also dubbed several
Disney films including "Bambi" and "Peter Pan."


ACE VERGEL Died Dec. 15, 2007

Philippine actor Ace Vergel died of a heart attack at age 55. Mr.
Vergel was a tough-guy actor in his native land. He won his nation's
Best Actor Award for his work in the film "Anak ng Cabron." Other
credits include "Suicide Force," "The Killer 2" and "Jacob." His
parents were movie stars in the 1950s. He made his first film when he
was 7-years-old.


MICHAEL MOLNAR Died Dec. 15, 2007

Grip and gaffer Michael Molnar died at age 53. Mr. Molnar worked on
the lighting crew for such films as "Ghoulies," "Wisdom" and "Buffy
the Vampire Slayer."


JOHN BERG Death discovered Dec. 16, 2007

58-year-old character actor John Berg committed suicide by carbon
monoxide poisoning. Mr. Berg appeared in the feature film "Star Trek:
Nemesis" and numerous TV shows including "House
M.D.," "Monk," "NCIS," "Boston Legal" and "Law & Order." Mr. Berg did
not leave a suicide note. Prayers of comfort for his family and
friends.


DAN FOGELBERG Died Dec. 16, 2007

Singer Dan Fogelberg died of prostate cancer at age 56. I can't help
but tear up everytime I hear his beautiful song "Leader of the Band."
It always makes me want to call my dad, even though he had been dead
for 10 years. Dan Fogelberg's "Longer: The Power of Gold" is one of
the greatest soft-rock love songs of all time. Mr. Fogelberg's music
can be heard on the soundtracks of such films as "FM," "About Scmidt"
and "Urban Cowboy."


JACK ZANDER Died Dec. 17, 2007

Animator/director/producer Jack Zander died at age 99. Mr. Zander
worked for Warners and MGM at the beginning of his career. He
animated several "Tom and Jerry" cartoons. He was nominated for an
Emmy award for the TV series "Gnomes." Other credits include "Popeye
Meets the Man Who Hated Laughter" and several animated segments
on "Saturday Night Live."


JANET SCANLON Died Dec. 17, 2007

Janet Scanlon died at age 77. You won't find Ms. Scanlon's name in
the credits of any films, but you've seen her work. At least fans of
Esther Williams movies have seen her work. Ms. Scanlon was a champion
skater and swimmer. She made the US Olympic team in the early 1940s.
The game were cancelled due to WWII, so she never competed. Ms.
Scanlon was a member of the Aquamaids water skiing team. She appeared
with the team performing in the film "This is Cinerama." She also
appeared in the Esther Williams aquatic musical "Easy to Love."


JACK LINKLETTER Died Dec. 18, 2007

Actor and TV host Jack Linkletter died of lymphoma at age 70. He was
the son of TV legend Art Linkletter. Jack Linkletter worked in TV for
a number of years before turning to business as the head of
Linkletter Enterprises. He hosted the Rock and Roll TV variety
show "Hootenanny." Mr. Linkletter also co-hosted his father's TV
show "House Party" on a recurring basis. Other credits
include "Here's Hollywood," "The Bob Cummings Show" and "The Plot
Thickens."


JOHN BEAR CURTIS Died Dec. 18, 2007

Character actor John Bear Curtis died at age 59. Mr. Curtis appeared
in nearly 40 films and TV shows during his career. His final
appearance was in the sexy "Masters of Horror" episode "The Deer
Woman." Mr. Curtis' many credits include "The 13th
Warrior," "Stargate SG-1," "Lonesome Dove: The Outlaw Years," "The
NeverEnding Story III," "Stay Tuned," "MacGyver," "The Hitchhiker"
and "Wiseguy."


HUGH MCAFEE SR. Died Dec. 18, 2007

Stunt man and actor Hugh McAfee Sr. died at age 76. His many stunt
credits include "Jay and Silent Bob Strike Back," the feature film
version of "McHale's Navy" and "Barton Fink." He acted in "Livers
Ain't Cheap" and "Asteroid." Mr. Jenson was the uncle of special
effects tech Gary Jensen.


WALLACE BENEPE Died Dec. 19, 2007

Poet, pro-tennis player and film producer Wallace Benepe died at age
68. Mr. Benepe was the executive producer of the documentary "The
American Hobo." Ernest Borgnine narrated the film which featured
interviews with such diverse people as author James Michener and
country singing legend Merle Haggard.


FRANK CAPRA JR. Died Dec. 19, 2007

Emmy-nominated producer Frank Capra Jr. died at age 73. He was the
son of famed director Frank Capra. Though the junior Capra didn't
equal his father's success, he was responsible for producing a number
of popular films. Mr. Capra was also an influential force in turning
North Carolina into a major film production center. Mr. Capra was an
associate producer on one of my favorite B-Movies: "Vice Squad." The
film featured Wings Hauser as one of the screen's baddest badguys. It
also featured the line "Go ahead, make my day!" before Clint Eastwood
said it in "Sudden Impact." During the 1970s and 80s Mr. Capra
produced a number of popular films including "Marooned" with Gregory
Peck, "Escape From the Planet of the Apes," "Conquest of the Planet
of the Apes," "Battle for the Planet of the Apes," Joseph
Wambaugh's "The Black Marble," Stephen King's "Firestarter," "The
Seduction" and Chuck Norris' "An Eye for an Eye." Presidential
candidate Fred Thompson made his screen debut playing himself in the
Capra produced film "Marie." Mr. Capra also produced the least
successful of the "Billy Jack" films: "Billy Jack Goes to
Washington." The movie was based on his father's classic film "Mr.
Smith Goes to Washington." Frank Capra Jr. was nominated for an Emmy
for producing the TV special "High Hopes: The Capra Years." In 2004,
Mr. Capra was honored with the North Carolina Distinguished Filmmaker
Award.

Documentarian Bruce Crawford's latest Omaha Film Event featured Mr.
Capra's father's classic "It's a Wonderful Life." Mr. Crawford
informed the crowd in attendance at the charity event that Frank
Capra Jr. had just passed away. Mr. Crawford shared his memories of
Frank Capra Jr. with me: Frank Capra Jr. was a class act all the way.
He was a most unassuming man. Not only did he carry one of the most
famous names in film history, but he also made a name for himself as
a most successful producer. Many of the most successful Planet of the
Apes films were produced by Frank. I spoke with him last, just in
September and he sounded like he was still working on more projects.
He will be missed.


JAMES COSTIGAN Death discovered Dec. 19, 2007

Emmy-winning writer James Costigan died of heart failure at age 81.
Mr. Costigan, who lived alone, was found by concerned neighbors. He
may have been dead for as long as a week. Mr. Costigan wrote some of
the best TV movies of the 1970s. He was nominated five times for Emmy
Awards and won three. The Writers Guild honored him with the Laurel
Award for TV Writing Achievement in 1979. Mr. Costigan won Emmy
Awards for the "Hallmark Hall of Fame" production of "Little Moon of
Alben," as well as the TV movies "Love Among the Ruins" and "Eleanor
and Franklin." His other two nominations were for "Eleanor and
Franklin: The White House Years" and the 1959 production of "The Turn
of the Screw." Other notable TV credits include the IRA drama "A War
of Children," "F. Scott Fitzgerald in Hollywood" and "In the House of
Brede." His feature film credits include the sexy vampire film "The
Hunger," Bruce Beresford's "King David" and "Mr. North."


EDWARD HANSEN Death announced Dec. 20, 2007

Disney animator and producer Edward Hansen died at age 82. Mr. Hansen
began working for Disney Studios in the early 1950s. He did animation
work on such films as "Peter Pan," "20,000 Leagues Under the Sea"
and "Lady and the Tramp." He worked as an AD on seven features
including "Sleeping Beauty," "Robin Hood," "Jungle Book," "The Many
Adventures of Winnie the Pooh" and "The Aristocats." Mr. Hansen
managed the animation division during much of the 1970s. He was
production manager on "The Fox and the Hound" and "Mickey's Christmas
Carol." Mr. Hansen was the Executive in Charge of Production on "The
Black Cauldron" and "The Great Mouse Detective." Edward Hansen served
his country in the US Navy during WWII and the Korean War.


KAZUMI TANAKA Died Dec. 20, 2007

Japanese voice actor Kazumi Tanaka died of heart failure at age 56.
Mr. Tanaka leant his vocal talents to a number of well known anime
films and TV shows. His credits include "Vampire Hunter
D," "Akira," "Dragon Ball Z," "Transformers" and several of
the "Crying Freeman" films.


JEANNE CARMEN Died Dec. 20, 2007

Actress and pin-up queen Jeanne Carmen died of lymphoma at age 77.
Ms. Carmen died peacefully at home holding the hand of her son
Brandon James. Ms. Carmen was one of the most recognized pin-up
models of the 1950s. Her pictures graced the covers and pages of
dozens of magazines. Ms. Carmen's break into show biz came when Bert
Lahr hired her for his Broadway play "Burlesque" in 1948. Ms. Carmen
was 17-years-old at the time. Monster movie fans remember Ms. Carmen
for her role in "The Monster of Piedras Blancas." Ms. Carmen also
appeared in the Diana Barrymoore biopic "Too Much, Too Soon." She
appeared in the short subject "The Merry Mix Up" with the Three
Stooges. She played Stooge Joe Besser's girlfriend in the movie. One
of my first memories of Ms. Carmen was in the old "Gang Busters" TV
show from the 1950s. She played Pretty Boy Floyd's girlfriend on the
show. The episode was combined with two other episodes and turned
into the feature film "Guns Don't Argue." Ms. Carmen also had a
supporting role in the cult-classic juvenile delinquent
movie "Untamed Youth" which starred Mamie Van Doren.

Ms. Carmen was an excellent golfer. She was taken under the wing of
trick shot artist Jack Redmond and PGA champ Jimmy Demaret and became
an expert trick-shot artist. Ms. Carmen may be best known for her
claimed friendship with Marilyn Monroe. Ms. Carmen appeared in a
number of documentaries based on her stories of her friendship with
the late star. Ms. Carmen caught flack from some quarters because of
this part of her life. These attacks include an insulting online
obituary by a Marilyn Monroe biographer. I would rather remember the
pleasure Ms. Carmen's work and exploits added to my life than indulge
in posthumous trashing. Thanks for living large Ms. Carmen!

Ms. Carmen's son Brandon James shared some of his thoughts about the
passing of his mother with me. Mr. James penned his mother's
memoir "Jeanne Carmen: My Wild, Wild Life as a NY Pin-Up Queen."

"My Mom was the most beautiful, funniest, warmest, kindest girl I
ever met in my life. Most importantly, she was my best friend. My Mom
was born in Paragould, Arkansas on August 4, 1930. She ran away at
age 13 with a girlfriend and hitched a ride to Saint Louis for a few
years and then on to NYC. She always considered herself a Southern
Girl at heart or as she said on her E! True Hollywood Story "a
hillbilly cottonpicker with attitude."

I've written a screenplay about her and the script is currently with
Scarlett Johansson's agent and Kate Bosworth's agent. Christina
Aguilera was approached earlier in the year and she was excited about
doing it but her pregnancy made her drop out. My Mom really thought
Christina had the look and the attitude of a born pin up girl. It's
quite a rare thing. It's a look and an attitude. So we were willing
to give Christina a shot at acting in a role that wouldn't be your
traditional "singer playing a singer" in their first movie.

But now with the Writers strike, Hollywood is shut down and no one
will commit to anything until the strike is over so maybe Christina
will have her baby and the role will come back to her?

One thing to clear up...the media has been talking about this movie
and somehow, many websites have misinterpreted it as Scarlett, Kate
and Christina being up for the role of Marilyn Monroe and that's
wrong. They are up for the role of Jeanne Carmen. The movie is about
a girl from the South who goes to NY and becomes a famous Pin Up Girl
and becomes a Trick Shot Golfer who gets hooked up with Mobster
Johnny Rosselli and becomes a golf hustler for the Mob in Las Vegas.
It's a wild road movie comedy. It has nothing to do with Marilyn
Monroe.


BILLY DAYDODGE Died Dec. 20, 2007

Native American actor Billy Daydodge died at a Loma Linda hospital at
age 78. Mr. Daydodge had a recurring role on the TV series "Dr.
Quinn, Medicine Woman." Other credits include John Candy's final
film "Wagons East." Mr. Daydodge provided voice-over narration for
the A&E TV series "The Real West." Mr. Daydodge's other credits
include "North," "Nate and the Colonel," "Son of the Beach," "Grizzly
Adams and the Legend of Dark Mountain" and "Navajo Blues."


NORTON NASCIMENTO Died Dec. 21, 2007

Brazilian TV star Norton Nascimento died of a heart infection at age
45. Mr. Nascimento underwent a heart transplant in 2003 when an
aortic aneurysm was discovered. Mr. Nascimento was a familiar face on
TV in his native land. He appeared in 15 TV series and was a regular
on several including "New Wave." Mr. Nascimento also worked in film
and on stage. Prayers of comfort for his family and friends.


JOHN MCPHEARSON Died Dec. 21, 2007

Emmy-winning cinematographer John McPhearson died a week shy of his
66th birthday. Mr. McPhearson won an Outstanding Cinematography for a
Series Emmy for his work on Steven Speilberg's "Amazing Stories." He
received two more Emmy nominations for his work on "The Incredible
Hulk" and "Amazing Stories." He also was nominated by his peers at
the American Society of Cinematographers for "Amazing Stories." Mr.
McPhearson worked as a gaffer on the "Dirty Harry" sequel "The
Enforcer." He was the DP on such feature films as "*batteries not
included," "Fletch Lives" and "Short Circuit 2." Mr. McPhearson
directed numerous TV shows including "Beverly Hills, 90210," "Nash
Bridges," "Babylon 5," "Sliders" and "Swamp Thing."


JOHN DETROIA Died Dec. 22, 2007

Teamster and stuntman John DeTroia died at age 62. Mr. DeTroia worked
as a teamster on such films as "Panic" and "Friday." He worked as a
stunt man on the cult classic "Laserblast." Mr. DeTroia was a
production assistant on Mark Lester's excellent "Stunts.


OSCAR PETERSON Died Dec. 23, 2007

Jazz legend Oscar Peterson died of kidney failure ate age 82. Pianist
Oscar Peterson played with such musicians as Charlie Parker and Ella
Fitzgerald. The Canadian musician played on over 100 recordings
during his lengthy career. His fil work includes creating or
performing music for such films as the excellent thriller "The Silent
Partner," "Play It Again Sam," "Bright Lights, Big City" and the HBO
series "Six Feet Under."


MICHAEL KIDD Died Dec. 23, 2007

Multi-Tony-award winning choreographer Michael Kidd died at age 92.
Michael Kidd won five Best Choreography Tony Awards and was nominated
for another six Tony awards. His other nominations included three
Best Direction nods. Mr. Kidd received an honorary Oscar in 1997 for
his contribution to the art of dance on the screen. He was nominated
for an Emmy award for the TV special "Baryshnikov in Hollywood." Mr.
Kidd won Tony awards for his work on "Finian's Rainbow," "Guys and
Dolls," "Can-Can," "Li'l Abner" and "Destry Rides Again." Michael
Kidd's film work includes staging the dance and musical numbers
for "The Band Wagon," "Guys and Dolls" and "Li'l Abner." He
choreographed the classic film musical "Seven Brides for Seven
Brothers." The dance numbers remain some of the vigorous in the
genre. Michael Kidd directed the Danny Kaye comedy "Merry Andrew." My
fondest memory of Michael Kidd's work was his excellent supporting
role in Michael Ritchie's over-looked "Smile." The satirical film
exposed the world of small town beauty pageants. Mr. Kidd stole the
show as Tommy French, the pageant's choreographer. The movie is a
classic gem that you should seek out at all costs.


POLLI MAGARO Died Dec. 23, 2007

Character actress Polli Magaro died of natural causes in a New York
hospital. He age was not given. Ms. Magaro was a contract player at
the Metropolitan Opera for 20 years. Her film and TV credits
include "The Brotherhood," "Saturday Night Live," "Cagney &
Lacey," "ED," "Prizzi's Honor," "Avenging Angelo," "Primary
Colors," "Mr. Destiny" and "Paradise Alley."


JONATHAN WALSH Died Dec. 24, 2007

Actor Jonathan Walsh died of cancer. His age was not given. Mr. Walsh
became an actor after retiring from a career in sales. Mr. Walsh
played Father McCasslin in the Oscar nominated film "In the Bedroom."
Other credits include "The Good Man's Sin."


PAT KIRKWOOD Died Dec. 25, 2007

British actress/singer Pat Kirkwood died at age 86. Ms. Kirkwood
Appeared in several films during the 1930s and 40s. She made five
films in the UK before coming to the US. She starred opposite Van
Johnson in the comedy "No Leave, No Love." The movie failed at the
box office and Ms. Kirkwood returned to her home land. Ms. Kirkwood
enjoyed success on stage at London's West End, TV and the radio in
the UK. Her third husband, Hubert Gregg wrote two of Ms. Kirwood's
film: "Stars in Your Eyes" and "After the Ball."


GP SIPPY Died Dec. 25, 2007

Producer GP Sippy died at age 93. Mr. Sippy's 1975 crime
thriller "Sholay" remains the biggest box office success in India.
The brutal tale of revenge was directed by the producers son Ramesh
Sippy. The film's style was inspired by the works of Akira Kurosawa
and Sergio Leone. The movie was referred to as the first 'Curry
Western' by some film critics. Mr. Sippy was the grandfather of
producer Rohan Sippy. GP Sippy produced nearly 20 films and directed
several more.


BRIAN TUBBERT Died Dec. 25, 2007

Actor Brian Tubbert died of undisclosed causes at age 45. Mr. Tubbert
appeared in "ESP: Extra Sexual Perception," "Love Letter"
and "Suicide Regimen."


STU NAHAN Died Dec. 26, 2007

Famed sportscaster Stu Nahan died of lymphoma at age 81. Mr. Nahan
worked as a sportscaster in the LA market for 31 years. He appeared
nearly 30 films and TV shows, usually playing sports announcers. He
played himself opposite Sean Penn in the character Jeff Spicolli's
dream sequence in "Fast Times at Ridgemont High." Mr. Nahan appeared
in all six of the "Rocky" films. Other credits include the original
version of "Brian's Song," the TV biopic "Babe," "Gus," "Private
Benjamin," "Meteor," "Baywatch" and "The Great White Hype."


JAAN KROSS Died Dec. 26, 2007

Estonian writer Jaan Kross died at age 87. Mr. Kross was nominated
several times for the Nobel Prize for literature. Mr. Kross spent
nine years imprisoned in a Soviet gulag under the Stalin regime. Mr.
Kross wrote several screenplays and had several of his novels turned
into films and TV miniseries.


JANIS CRESWELL Died Dec. 27, 2007

Casting assistant Janis Creswell died of cancer at age 46. Ms.
Creswell worked on such films and TV shows as "America's Most
Wanted," "Passenger 57," "Psycho IV: The Beginning," "Problem Child
2" and "Super Boy." Prayers of comfort for her family and friends.


TAB THACKER Died Dec. 27, 2007

College wrestling champ turned actor Tab Thacker died at age 45 of
complications from diabetes. Mr. Thacker won the 1984 NCAA wrestling
championship when he attended North Carolina State University. He was
not allowed to compete in the 1984 Olympics due to his weight, even
though he beat the Russian national champion that same year. Mr.
Thancker played Officer 'House' Conklin in two of the "Police
Academy" movies. He was one of Goldie Hawn's fottball players
in "Wildcats." Other credits include "City Heat" and "Identity
Crisis."


JERZY KAWALEROWICZ Died Dec. 27, 2007

Oscar-nominated Polish director Jerzy Kawalerowicz died of a
hemorrhage at age 85. Mr. Kawalerowicz's 1965 film "Pharoah" received
a Best Foreign Film Oscar nomination. In 2005 Mr. Kawalerowicz was
honored with a Lifetime Achievement Award at the Polish Film Awards.
He won a Special Jury Prize at Cannes for the 1961 film "Joan of the
Angels." His final film was a TV miniseries version of "Quo Vadis?"


SUN DAOLIN Died Dec. 27, 2007

Chinese actor and director Sun Daolin died at age 86. Mr. Daolin
appeared in over 100 films. He directed the award winning film "Zhan
Tianyou" in 2000.


JEAN-FRANCOIS REMI Died Dec. 27, 2007

French actor Jean-François Rémi died at age 80. Mr. Remi costarred in
Alan Resnais'1966 Oscar nominated film "La Guerre est Fine" (The War
is Over). He also appeared in Abel Gance's 1960 film "The Battle of
Austerlitz." Other credits include "Verdict" and the TV
miniseries "Orient Express."


BENAZIR BHUTTO Died Dec. 27, 2007

Former Pakistani Prime Minister Benazir Bhutto was assassinated at a
campaign rally near Islamabad, Pakistan. Ms. Bhutto returned to
Pakistan from exile in London this past October. Assassins attempted
to kill her the day she returned. 134 died in the October attempt.
News reports state that Ms. Bhutto was attacked by a suicide
gunman/bomber who shot her in the neck and chest before detonating a
bomb. Ms. Bhutto returned to Pakistan to try and restore democracy to
the troubled land. She pledged, if elected to rid Pakistan of the
Taliban and Al Quaeda. I imagine that the rat Osama Bin Laden is
smiling from the depths of some dank cave this day. Like Mahatma
Ghandi and Martin Luther King, Benazir Bhutto put herself in harm's
way for the principles of freedom in which she believed. As was the
case with Ghandi and King, the principles by which Ms. Bhutto lived
will not be silenced by the cowardly act of a fanatical extremist.
Benazir Bhutto appeared in the documentary "Our Own Private Bin
Laden."


CLODY BERTOLA Died Dec. 27, 2007

Romanian actress Clody Bertola died in her sleep at age 94. Ms.
Bertola was a renowned Romanian stage actress who performed in
productions ranging from Shakespeare to Tennessee Williams. Ms.
Bertola also appeared in several films including the Cannes Film
Festival award winner "Baragan Thistles."


ANTONIO SUMMERTON Died 29,

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