RIP Lory Patrick

 

Lory Patrick, ‘Tales of Wells Fargo’ Actress and Widow of Disney Star Dean Jones, Dies at 92

She and the Disney actor known for ‘That Darn Cat!’ and ‘The Love Bug’ were married for 42 years until his 2015 death.

The Hollywood Reporter

By Mike Barnes

February 11, 2026

 

Lory Patrick, who portrayed a neighbor of Dale Robertson’s character on NBC’s Tales of Wells Fargo and appeared on such other shows as Wagon Train, Dr. Kildare and Bonanza, has died. She was 92.

Patrick died Jan. 26 in Gettysburg, Pennsylvania, a publicist announced.

Patrick was married to Dean Jones, the star of such classic Disney family films as That Darn Cat!, The Love Bug and The Shaggy D.A., for 42 years until his September 2015 death from Parkinson’s disease at age 84.

Her first husband was late science-fiction writer Harlan Ellison; they were married and divorced in 1966, and she was the third of his five wives.

Soon after signing a contract with Universal in 1961, Patrick appeared on an episode of The Loretta Young Show, then was hired to play schoolteacher Tina Swenson on Tales of Wells Fargo. Her character lives with her sister (Mary Jane Saunders) and their widowed mother, Ovie (Virginia Christine), on a San Francisco ranch next to one owned by Robertson’s Jim Hardie.

Patrick appeared on 15 episodes during the Western’s sixth and final season, when the show had been expanded to an hour.

Loretta Basham was born on April 8, 1933, in Beckley, West Virginia. After graduating from nearby Oak Hill High School, she worked as a model in Detroit and New York, where she landed a gig on the NBC game show Split Personality, before coming to Los Angeles.

Patrick also showed up on other shows including The Adventures of Ozzie and Harriet, The Many Loves of Dobie Gillis, It’s a Man’s World, General Electric Theater and Laramie and in such films as Surf Party (1964) and How to Succeed in Business Without Really Trying (1967).

She appeared on an episode of Bonanza in 1967 and did some writing for that NBC show. After retiring from acting in the late ’60s, she continued writing for TV and films, was a columnist for a writers’ magazine and as Lory Basham Jones wrote the 1993 book Hearing God.

After she married Jones in June 1973 (she was his second wife), they established a counseling ministry, served as elders for The Church on the Way in Van Nuys and founded the Christian Rescue Committee (now called Christian Rescue Fund), an organization that “provides a way of escape” to Jews, Christians and others persecuted for their faith.

In 1984, she directed the one-man play St. John in Exile that starring her husband. Jones then reprised the role of the disciple for a 1986 film. After his death, she moved from Tarzana to Gettysburg to spend time with family and to continue her writing and passion for art.

Survivors include her three children, Caroline (and her husband, Steve), Deanna (Tom) and Michael (Dion); eight grandchildren; nine great-grandchildren; her brothers, Richard, Tom and Paul; and her sister, Carol. She was preceded in death by two other brothers, Charles and David.

A memorial service is set for 11 a.m. on April 25 at Mossy Living World Church in Scarbro, West Virginia. Donations in her name can be made to that church, Pentecost Walk or the Christian Rescue Fund.

PATRICK, Lory (Loretta Basham)

Born: 4/8/1934, Beckley, West Virginia, U.S.A.

Died: 1/26/2026, Gettysburg, Pennsylvania, U.S.A.

 

Lory Patrick’s westerns – actress:

Gunfight at Black Horse Canyon (TV) – 1961 (Tina)

Tales of Wells Fargo (TV) – 1961-1962 (Tina Swanson)

Wagon Train (TV) - 1962 (Laura, Nancy Davis, Rachel Levy)

Wide Country (TV) – 1962 (Georgina)

Laramie (TV) – 1963 (Laurie McGovern)

Death Valley Days (TV) – 1964 (Winifred Sweet)

Bonanza (TV) – 1967 (Rita)

RIP Vangie Labalan

 

Actress Vangie Labalan passes away at 83

Manila Bulletin

By Robert Requintina

February 12, 2026

 

Actress and acting coach Vangie Labalan (Maria Cristina Labalan in real life) has passed away. She was 83.

This was confirmed by her daughter Van-van Aligam in a Facebook post on Feb. 12.

Van-van said her mother passed on surrounded by family. No other details were provided.

"Ma, how is this because the stone is not yours? I'm glad you passed peacefully. surrounded by family. Acta at the end, you're going to be a bit too late. We love you, Mom. Rest easy,' wrote Van-van on social media.

Vangie has appeared on television and movie projects, including the critically acclaimed "Himala" with Nora Aunor. She last appeared in the Kapamilya series "Batang Quiapo."

Van-van also paid tribute to her mom in a separate post.

"If there's a lot of sadness in my life, there's only one Sabbath. You made me talk. Period. I am proud to act because it bleeds in my blood. Has a right!

"Thank you, Ma. Because of you, we are not able to control actors and showbiz life "Because of you I earned my voice. The workshops were worth it.

"You are the promoter of Australia to all of us. That's why we're here.

"Thank you for being our automatic pulian sa Manila.

"Thank you for helping us get where we are. In support. For the encouragement that someone brings hikay.

"If it's dawn, it's the end.

"We miss you already. We love you."

Friends in showbiz and netizens offered their condolences to Vangie's family. Among them were the Film Development Council of the Philippines Chairman Jose Javier Reyes, Roderick Paulate, I.C. Mendoza, Darius Razon, and Marissa Delgado.

"Thank you for all the years we worked together and provided Filipino cinema with the brilliance of your talent, hard work, and professionalism. You shall never be forgotten, as you will forever be missed. Have a safe journey home to the waiting arms of Our Father, dearest Vangie Labalan," wrote Reyes.

Labalan, Vangie (Maria Cristina Labalan)

Born: 1/20/1943, Bago, Negros Occidental, Philippines

Died: 2/12/2026, Australia

 

Vangie Labalan’s western – actress:

Long Ranger and Tonton: Shooting Stars of the West – 1989 (Lovely Nest)

RIP Bud Cort

 

Bud Cort, ‘Harold and Maude’ Star, Dies at 77

Variety

By Pat Saperstein

February 11, 2026

 

Bud Cort, who personified the role of Harold in the 1971 Hal Ashby classic “Harold and Maude,” died Wednesday in Connecticut after a long illness. He was 77.

His longtime friend Dorian Hannaway reported his death.

Cort also starred in Robert Altman’s “Brewster McCloud” and had roles in numerous other films and TV shows.

In “Harold and Maude,” which became a beloved and enduring cult classic despite a rocky start at the box office, Cort played a 20-year-old man obsessed by thoughts of suicide whose life changes when he meets Maude, a 79-year-old Holocaust survivor played by Ruth Gordon.

Born Walter Edward Cox in Rye, N.Y., he changed his name to avoid confusion with character actor Wally Cox. He went to school in New Rochelle, N.Y. and enjoyed going to Broadway shows.

Cort moved to Los Angeles to work in film and was cast by Altman in a small part in “MASH.” Altman then selected his to star in the quirky “Brewster McCloud” about a young man who yearns to fly, with Sally Kellerman as a guardian angel.

“I was only fourteen when I met Bud at the backstage door at my sister’s play,” Roslyn Kind recalled in a statement. “He was majoring in art at the time in high school. We became close friends who shared our interest in entertainment. When I got married, Bud and our songwriter friend, Bruce Roberts, wrote a special song that was performed at the ceremony. His unique spirit will always be with me.”

“We were in the line for lunch when I spotted him,” she later recalled. “Although I didn’t know who he was, I said ‘Oh, boy. We’re going to be best friends.’”

His chemistry with Gordon while auditioning for the part of Harold convinced Ashby and writer Colin Higgins to cast him in “Harold and Maude,” which has endured as a repertory screening favorite for more than 50 years. He was nominated for a BAFTA award as most promising newcomer and for a Golden Globe for best actor in a musical or comedy.

“A young man obsessed with death falls in love with an old woman obsessed with life. She dies and teaches the kid how to live,” Cameron Crowe described it for AFI in 2011. “And it’s done with music [by Cat Stevens] that scratches at your soul. . . . that movie holds up — to this minute.”

His other roles included films “She Dances Alone,” “Electric Dreams” and “The Life Aquatic,” as well as “Heat,” “Dogma,” “Coyote Ugly” and “Pollock.”

He also voiced the character Toyman in “Superman: The Animated Series,” “Static Shock” and “Justic League Unlimited.” He co-wrote, starred in and directed the 1991 film “Ted and Venus.”

In 1979, Cort narrowly survived a devastating car accident, which necessitated numerous surgeries and affected his career.

He is survived by his brother Joseph Cox and his sister-in-law Vickie and their daughters, Meave, Brytnn, and Jesse of Rye, N.Y.; his sister Kerry Cox of Larchmont, N.Y.; his sister and brother-in-law, Tracy Cox Berkman and Edward Berkman, and their sons, Daniel and Peter. He is also survived by his sister, Shelly Cox Dufour and brother-in-law Robert Dufour, and nieces Madeline and Lucie.

A memorial will be held at a future date in Los Angeles.

CORT, Bud (Walter Edward Cox)

Born: 3/29/1948, Rye, New York, U.S.A.

Died: 2/11/2026, Connecticut, U.S.A.

 

Bud Cort’s westerns – actor:

The Travelling Executioner – 1970 (Jimmy)

South of Heaven, West of Hell – 2000 (Agent Otts)

RIP James Van Der Beek

 

‘Dawson’s Creek’ Star James Van Der Beek Dead at 48 After Cancer Battle

The actor also starred in Kesha's 2011 music video for "Blow."

Billboard

By Anna Chan

2/11/2026

 

“Our beloved James David Van Der Beek passed peacefully this morning. He met his final days with courage, faith, and grace,” the statement, posted to Instgram, read. “There is much to share regarding his wishes, love for humanity and the sacredness of time. Those days will come. For now we ask for peaceful privacy as we grieve our loving husband, father, son, brother, and friend.”

The actor revealed in an exclusive interview with People in November 2024, that he had stage 3 colorectal cancer; he was 46 at the time. Van Der Beek told the magazine that his family had no history of cancer, and that he was careful to take good care of his health. “I’d always associated cancer with age and with unhealthy, sedentary lifestyles,” he told People. “But I was in amazing cardiovascular shape. I tried to eat healthy — or as far as I knew it at the time.”

He said that he first noticed changes with his bowel movements in 2023, but assumed it was diet related, but decided to be safe and get a colonoscopy. That’s when he learned he had colorectal cancer. Despite the diagnosis, Van Der Beek said he was “cautiously optimistic at the time,” telling People, “I have a lot to live for.”

Throughout his treatment, the actor shared his story, repeating in interviews that he hoped his tale would encourage others to talk to their doctors and get tested.

In addition to Dawson’s Creek, the actor also starred in films such as Varsity Blues and The Rules of Attraction, and also had memorable guest roles on shows including Law & Order: Special Victims Unit, One Tree Hill and Ugly Betty.

Van Der Beek also had a memorable starring role in Kesha’s 2011 video for “Blow.” In the visual, the actor and musician eye each other across a dance floor, then bust out laser guns and start shooting (taking out a few unicorns in the process), before Kesha reigns victorious.

James Van Der Beek is survived by his wife, Kimberly, and their kids Olivia, Joshua, Annabel, Emilia, Gwen and Jeremiah.

VAN DER BEEK, James (James David Van Der Beek Jr.)

Born: 3/8/1977, Cheshire, Connecticut, U.S.A.

Died: 2/11/2026, Austin, Texas, U.S.A.

 

James Van Der Beek’s westerns – actor:

Texas Rangers – 2001 (Lincoln Rogers Dunnison)

Walker (TV) – 2024 (new neighbor)

RIP Christa Lang

 

Christa Lang, Actress, Producer and Widow of Samuel Fuller, Dies at 82

She appeared in French New Wave movies for Roger Vadim, Claude Chabrol and Jean-Luc Godard before marrying the iconic American filmmaker in 1967.

The Hollywood Reporter

By Mike Barnes

February 3, 2026

 

Christa Lang, the German-born actress and producer who appeared in French New Wave features and served as a muse to her husband of three decades, the daring American filmmaker Samuel Fuller, has died. She was 82.

Lang died Friday at her home in Los Angeles after what was described as a brief period of declining health, her daughter, Samantha Fuller, announced.

Lang had moved to Paris and become friends with writers, actors and filmmakers including Roger Vadim, Claude Chabrol, Agnès Varda and Jean-Luc Godard while appearing in Vadim’s Circle of Love (1964), Chabrol’s Code Name: Tiger (1964) and Godard’s Alphaville (1965), starring Anna Karina.

Also in Paris at the time was Fuller, who had acted in Godard’s Pierrot le Fou (1965), a precursor to he and Lang having their first date the following year in Montmartre.

After Fuller returned to the U.S., he paid for Lang’s first-class, one-way ticket to the States, and they married in 1967, when she worked opposite Elvis Presley, her teenage idol, in an uncredited role in Charro!

For Fuller, she went on to portray a rebellious German countess in the World War II epic The Big Red One (1980) and a nurse in White Dog (1980), and she was his partner in the production company Chrisam Films.

Christa Langewiesche was born in December 1943 in Winterberg, Germany and raised in postwar Essen, where she had her first poem published in a local newspaper when she was 15.

At 17, she moved to France and worked as an au pair for the Toulouse-Lautrec family, then began modeling and saving money for acting classes. (In Paris, she sat as an art model for renowned sculptor Paul Belmondo, father of actor Jean-Paul Belmondo.)

Lang acted in stage productions including La Jalousie by Sacha Guitry, then earned her first onscreen role in L’Assasin connait la musique (1963), written and directed by Pierre Chenal.

After appearing in Chabrol’s The Champagne Murders (1967) and getting married, she joined Fuller in developing projects while pursuing her academic ambitions. She enrolled in a French Literature program at UCLA and graduated with a master’s degree a few years later.

In 1972, Lang showed up in Peter Bogdanovich’s What’s Up Doc? — she and Fuller would become great friends with the director and his then-wife, Polly Platt — and played a witty con artist on an episode of the German crime series Tatort that was written and directed by her husband.

Lang gave birth to her daughter in 1975, and nine months later they appeared as mother and child alongside Anthony Hopkins in the 1976 NBC telefilm The Lindbergh Kidnapping Case.

In 1981, the family moved to Paris to pursue European film offers for Fuller to write and direct, and they would remain there until 1995. Before returning to the U.S., however, she and Fuller traveled to Brazil to meet with Karaja Indians in the Amazon jungle for the 1994 Mika Kaurismäki-directed documentary Tigrero.

After Fuller’s death in October 1997 at age 85, Lang set out to have his autobiography, A Third Face, edited and published, and it hit bookstores in 2002. She also produced a 2013 documentary about him, A Fuller Life, that was directed by their daughter.

Her last onscreen appearance was filmed last year for an upcoming documentary about Fuller’s final feature, Street of No Return (1989).

Survivors also include her granddaughter, Samira.

LANG, Christa (Christa Langewiesche)

Born: 12/23/1943, Winterberg, Gau Westphalia-South, Germany

Died: 1/30/2026, Los Angeles, California, U.S.A.

 

Christa Lang’s western – actress:

Charro! – 1969 (Christa)

RIP Gerardo Taracena

 

Gerardo Taracena, ‘Apocalypto’ actor and renowned Mexican performer, dies at 55

The Economic Times

By Maitreyee Thakkar

February 1, 2026

 

Gerardo Taracena, a celebrated Mexican actor and dancer known for Apocalypto and other projects, died on 31 January 2026 at the age of 55. The fact was confirmed by the Asociación Nacional de Actores (ANDA) in an official statement expressing deep sorrow over his passing. It has not elaborated on medical details or circumstances.

Born on 27 March 1970 in Mexico City, Gerardo Taracena developed an early passion for the performing arts, studying Dramatic Arts at the Centro Universitario de Teatro of the National Autonomous University of Mexico (UNAM). He began his artistic journey in theatre and dance, performing in numerous productions that showcased his expressive range and physicality.

Taracena’s talent quickly found expression beyond the stage, and by the late 1990s and early 2000s he was appearing in notable film and television roles. While his early work included a variety of national productions, he soon became known to international audiences as well.

Breakthrough in Hollywood

One of Taracena’s most internationally celebrated roles came in Mel Gibson’s Apocalypto (2006), where he portrayed Middle Eye, a fierce and memorable warrior in the epic historical drama. The film brought him global recognition and remains one of his most iconic screen performances.

In addition to Apocalypto, his Hollywood credits included roles in acclaimed films such as Man on Fire (2004) and The Mexican (2001), broadening his reach with North American audiences.

Success in Mexican cinema

Taracena’s filmography was vast and diverse, including a mix of dramatic and comedic work in Mexican cinema. He appeared in popular films such as El violín (The Violin), El Chamán in El Señor de los Cielos, Batman in La Reina del Sur, showcasing his range from intense character roles to lighter, heartfelt performances.

In the era of streaming, Taracena became widely recognized for his role in the hit Netflix series Narcos: México, where he portrayed Pablo Acosta Villarreal, a historical figure linked to the rise of modern drug trafficking along the US-Mexico border.

Beyond Narcos: México, he also appeared in other acclaimed television series, contributing to the growing international visibility of Mexican actors in global content platforms.

Taracena’s career spanned more than three decades and included over 30 theatre productions, numerous films and prominent television roles. He was widely respected not only for his screen presence but also for his commitment to the craft, blending physical performance, emotional depth and cultural authenticity.

Following news of his passing, ANDA publicly shared its condolences:

“La Asociación Nacional de Actores lamenta profundamente la partida de nuestro compañero Gerardo Taracena. Nos unimos a la pena que embarga a sus familiares, amigos y a la comunidad artística. QEPD.”

 

Colleagues, directors and fans have taken to social media to celebrate Taracena’s contributions and memories of his performances, particularly highlighting the strength and nuance he brought to every role.

 

As of the latest reports, the official cause of Gerardo Taracena’s death has not been disclosed by authorities or his family.

 

TARACENA, Gerardo

Born: 3/27/1970, Mexico City, Federal District, Mexico

Died: 1/31/2026, Mexico City, Federal District, Mexico

 

Gerardo Taracena’s westerns – actor:

Private Pérez – 2011 (Carmelo Benavides)

Texas Rising – 2015 (Manuel Flores)

RIP Fernando Esteso

 

Comedian Fernando Esteso dies at the age of 80

The actor had been admitted a couple of days ago to the La Fe University Hospital in Valencia

el Periodico

By Jaime Roch and Voro Contreras

February 1, 2026

 

The actor and comedian Fernando Esteso died this Sunday in Valencia at the age of 80. As Levante-EMV has been able to confirm, Esteso was admitted to the La Fe University Hospital. Esteso already had respiratory problems five years ago and was already hospitalized in the same center then. The actor was admitted a couple of days ago for one due to respiratory failure.

Sources close to the actor acknowledge that he was very delicate after having received treatment for an illness. In fact, during the last Christmas holidays she missed several commitments with her friends because she did not feel well. One of the appointments he could not attend, for example, was Christmas Day. Every year he went to celebrate it at Vicente Ruiz's house 'El Soro' with the comedian Paco Arévalo. This year he no longer attended the meeting with his friends because he was weak.

Fernando Esteso Allué was born on January 14, 1945 in Zaragoza, into a family of jota artists. His destiny was on stage from the beginning: he debuted at the age of six as "the Boy of the Jota" and cut his teeth in variety theater and revue. This early training gave him a versatility that would allow him to master humour, singing and acting, soon becoming one of the most recognised figures in show business in Spain at the time.

His golden age came between the end of the 70s and the beginning of the 80s, when he formed with Andrés Pajares the most profitable comedy duo in Spanish cinema. Under the direction of Mariano Ozores, they starred in massive hits such as "Los bingueros" (1979) or "Yo hice a Roque III" (1980). Their style of mischievous and costumbrist humour captured the idiosyncrasies of a Spain in the midst of the Transition, turning them into mass phenomena that filled cinemas throughout the country.

Despite his Aragonese roots, Esteso maintained an unbreakable bond with Valencia, the city where he has lived for decades.

ESTESO, Fernando (Fernando Julián Esteso Allué)

Born: 1/14/1945, Zaragoza, Aragon, Spain

Died: 2/1/2026, Valencia, Valencia, Spain

 

Fernando Esteso’s western – actor:

Al este del Oeste – 1983 (Bill Golden Pistol)

RIP Henner Hofmann

 

In Memoriam — Henner Hofmann, ASC, AMC (1950-2026) 

The cinematographer, whose works included The Legend of the Mask and Juego limpio, was instrumental in founding the Mexican Society of Cinematographers and devoted his career to shaping generations of filmmakers. Noah Kadner

American Cinematographer

1/30/2026

 

Henner Hofmann, ASC, AMC — a champion for Mexican filmmaking opportunities and education — died January 30, 2026 in Cuernavaca, Mexico at the age of 75.

Hofmann was born in 1950 in Mexico City, into a family rooted in the arts. His mother, Kitzia, of French origin, was a stained-glass artist and sculptor whose work included major architectural commissions. His father, Herbert, was also a sculptor who studied at the Bauhaus and created a well-known sculpture for the façade of the Nacional Financiera (National Finance Building) in Mexico City. Growing up in a home filled with books, art and spirited discussion, Hofmann was steeped in visual culture, which shaped his lifelong connection to image-making and cinema.

One of his formative filmmaking experiences involved traveling throughout Mexico and filming documentary material of indigenous communities in the 1970s. Along with fellow filmmakers Alfonso Muñoz, Gonzalo Martínez Ortega, Nacho López, Óscar Menéndez and Juan Rulfo, Hofmann founded the Archives of Ethnic Communities. This led to his first film as cinematographer, Bajo el Mismo Sol (Under the Same Sun) in 1979.

After meeting Society member Harry Wolf and drawing upon Wolf's experience establishing a cinematographers’ association in Hong Kong, Hofmann brought together leading cinematographers — including Gabriel Figueroa, Jorge Stahl and Pepe Ortiz Ramos — as well as younger colleagues, to establish the Mexican Society of Cinematographers (AMC) in 1994.

Hofmann built a prolific career as a cinematographer with more than 25 feature and television credits spanning the late 1970s through the 2010s. His work includes films such as The Legend of the Mask (1991) and Juego limpio (1995), both of which earned him Mexico’s Ariel Award for Best Cinematography, as well as international projects like Ground Control (1998), Flight of Fancy (2000), and Vampires: Los Muertos (2002).

Through his work at the Centro Universitario de Estudios Cinematográficos (CUEC, National Autonomous University of Mexico Film School) and later at the Centro de Capacitación Cinematográfica (CCC, Film Training Center), he actively encouraged women pursuing careers behind the camera. As a teacher and later as director of the CCC, he emphasized inclusion, hands-on experience and mentorship, shaping generations of filmmakers in the process.

Hofmann was a member of the Technicians and Cinematographic Production Guild, the Mexican Academy of Arts and Cinematographic Science, and the Screenwriters Guild of Mexico. In the United States, he was a member of the International Cinematographers Guild (IATSE Local 600) and the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences.

Hofmann became a member of the ASC in 2004, proposed by Society members Steven Poster, Gabriel Beristain and Michael O’Shea. In 2017, he received the ASC’s first-ever Certificate of Recognition for his contributions to education in cinematography.

In 2025, Hofmann was honored with a lifetime-achievement ceremony at Churubusco Studios in Mexico City, attended by many of his former students and his peers from the ASC and AMC. During that ceremony, a special tribute video was played for the veteran cinematographer.

“The world is cinematic, and it feels like I’m looking through a camera,” Hofmann says in the video. “You begin life seeing with an 18mm lens, and now I’m already at a 250mm. I’m very proud and satisfied with my work in cinematography and my academic work. If there was a circle of things like a cake cut into slices of what you like and what you want to do most — it’s the movies.”

Hofmann is survived by his wife Maria, son Sebastián and daughter Natalia.

HOFMANN, Henner

Born: 7/?/1950, Mexico City, Federal District, Mexico

Died: 1/30/2026, Cuernavaca, Morales, Mexico

 

Henner Hofmann’s westerns – cameraman, cinematographer:

Bajo el mismo sol y sobre la misma tierra – 1979 [cinematographer]

Wagons East – 1994 [cameraman]

Warden of Red Rock – 2001 [cinematographer]

Gallowwalkers – 2012 [cinematographer]

RIP Tal Berkovich

 

Model, actress Tal Berkovich killed in car accident at 41

Berkovich was in Israel visiting her family. Her brother was with her in the vehicle, and is currently in critical condition at Soroka Medical Center.

The Jerusalem Post

January 30, 2026

 

Israeli actress and model Tal Berkovich died in a car accident at age 41 on Thursday outside of Telalim, Israeli media confirmed on Friday morning.

The actress was in Israel visiting her family. Her 40-year-old brother, Gil, was in the vehicle with her on their way to their mother's birthday when they impacted a truck, and he is currently in critical condition at Soroka Medical Center, along with the truck driver, who has light injuries.

Berkovich was born in Kiryat Tivon, and performed in the Israeli ballet and the Bat-Dor Dance Company. She had a role in the 2006-2007 satirical show Paparazzi, after which she moved to London to study acting.

Berkovich worked on Israeli and American productions

In 2011, Berkovich performed in Dancing with the Stars. She then moved to Los Angeles, where she continued working on American projects such as the television shows Payday and Perfect and the 2017 movie Don't Forget Me, as well as Israeli productions, including an advertising campaign for INTIMA.

In an interview with Maariv in 2019, Berkovich talked about how her first arrival in Los Angeles left her disillusioned by the glamorous city. "I touched it and saw that not everything glitters. I saw that that's not what makes people happy. I started to investigate, to learn Kabbalah, and it brought me a lot of joy and peace, so I stuck with it. I know myself better. I have an internal peace."

Berkovich had participated in the ninth season of the cooking show Game of Chefs in Romania a few months prior to her death.

BERKOVICH, Tal

Born: 8/27/1984, Kiryat Tivon, Israel

Died: 1/29/2026, Telalim, Israel

 

Tal Berkovich’s western – actress:

In the Blood – 2019 (Dolores)

RIP Andreas Bellis

 

Andreas Bellis (1939-2026): Illuminating Greek cinema

At the age of 87, one of the most important directors of photography of the new Greek cinema has died.

FLIX

By Manolis Kranakis

January 28, 2026

 

I was born in Athens, studied physics, chemistry, mathematics at the Faculte des Sciences in Paris, cinema at the Ecole National de la Cinematographie and Stockhlm Film Sociology. Since 1982 I have illuminated many theatrical performances. I have collaborated with many directors, theater groups, music stages, dance theaters as well as with state and municipal stages. And I continue...

This autobiography of Andreas Bellis was indicative of Andreas Bellis' tireless creative disposition, but it does not include, apart from a few other biographical elements (such as the fact that he started working abroad – among other things, he was a camera assistant in the legendary 1967 film "I'm Strange: Yellow" and signed the cinematography for films and television productions in France, Sweden, USA and Lebanon). at least the titles of some of the films he illuminated, leaving them really as brilliant examples in the great book of Greek cinema.

Andreas Bellis was an Honorary Member of the Union of Greek Filmmakers (GSC)

Andreas Bellis was responsible for "The Lazy of the Fertile Valley" by Nikos Panagiotopoulos in 1978, "Chrysomallousa" by Tony Lykouresis in 1978, "Honeymoon" by Giorgos Panousopoulos in 1979, "Wandering" (1979) and "Rosa" (1982) by Christoforos Christofis, "Revenge" by Nikos Vergitsis in 1983, "Sweet Country" by Michael Cacoyannis in 1987, "Terirem" by Apostolos Doxiadis in 1987, "... Deserter" by Giorgos Korras and Christos Voupouras, "The Athenians" by Vassilis Alexakis in 1990, "House in the Countryside" by Lagia Giourgou in 1994 A harvest of titles and collaborations that makes his mark as Director of Photography on some of the most characteristic moments of new Greek cinema, next to great creators and in different phases of their development.

However, he also worked with a rejuvenating drive - as claimed by all those who worked with him - in lighting theatrical performances, dance theaters, events, ceremonies of the Thessaloniki Film Festival, fashion shows, tirelessly continuing his course in the Greek and international audiovisual landscape.

Andreas Bellis was born in 1939 in Athens and died on January 28, 2026, at the age of 87.

BELLIS, Andreas

Born: 11/30/1939, Athens, Greece

Died: 1/28/2026, Kinéta, Attiki, Greece

RIP Catherine O’Hara

 

Catherine O’Hara Died 'After a Brief Illness,' Her Rep Confirms

O'Hara died in Los Angeles on Friday, Jan. 30 at the age of 71

People

By Toria Shefield, Sandra Mandell

January 30, 2026

 

Hours after the news that comedy icon Catherine O’Hara had died at 71 on Jan. 30, her rep confirms to PEOPLE that she passed away “after a brief illness."

Shortly after her death was announced, a spokesperson for the Los Angeles Fire Department told PEOPLE that they received a call at 4:48 a.m. on Friday, Jan. 30 for an “approximately 70-year-old” unnamed female at O'Hara's home address. The woman, presumed to be the Schitt’s Creek alum, was transported to the hospital “in serious condition.”

According to LAFD dispatch audio, the person in distress at the address was having "breathing difficulty."

The comedy icon was well-known for her roles in films like Beetlejuice, Home Alone and Christopher Guest mockumentaries like Best in Show.

She also starred in several TV shows, including Schitt’s Creek, in which she played Moira Rose opposite Annie Murphy and Dan and Eugene Levy. In 2020, she won an Emmy for outstanding lead actress in a comedy series for her role in the beloved series. She also won a Golden Globe and a SAG Award for the show.

Friends and colleagues have been sharing their shock and sadness over the news of O’Hara’s death.

Macaulay Culkin, who played her onscreen son in the holiday classic Home Alone, shared a heart-felt tribute on Instagram, writing, “Mama. I thought we had time.”

"I wanted more. I wanted to sit in a chair next to you. I heard you but I had so much more to say," he added, along with side-by-side photos of himself and O'Hara in Home Alone and in 2023.

"I love you. I’ll see you later," he wrote at the end of the post.

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"Oh, genius to be near you. Eternally grateful. There is less light in my world, this lucky world that had you, will keep you, always. Always ♥️," Pedro Pascal, her Last of Us costar, wrote in a tribute on Instagram, along with a photo of the two of them on set.

Michael McKean, who along with O'Hara was a regular in many Christopher Guest comedies, summed up the loss simply on X: "Only one Catherine O'Hara, and now none. Heartbreaking."

O’Hara is survived by her husband of 33 years, production designer Bo Welch, and their two grown sons, Luke and Matthew.

O’HARA, Catherine (Catherine Anne O’Hara)

Born: 3/4/1954, Toronto, Ontario, Canada

Died: 1/30/2026, Los Angeles, California, U.S.A.

 

Catherine O’Hara’s westerns – actress:

Wyatt Earp – 1994 (Allie Earp)

Tall Tale – 1995 (Calamity Jane)

RIP Michel Barbey

 

Actor Michel Barbey, who lent his voice to Bud Spencer and the Grand Pope, has died.

The actor passed away at the age of 98. He had notably provided the voice for the Grand Pope in Saint Seiya (Knights of the Zodiac) and for Bud Spencer in They Call Me Trinity.

L’Alsace

1/25/2026

 

The actor Michel Barbey, who was one of the voices of Bud Spencer and many other characters in films and cartoons, died Saturday at the age of 98, his wife announced. He was the French voice of the Italian actor Bud Spencer in the first dubbing of the spaghetti western They Call Me Trinity (1970), and that of Wez, the psychopathic and almost mute punk biker from Mad Max 2 (1981).

Michel Barbey also dubbed characters in popular Japanese cartoons in the 1980s/90s: he was one of the voices of the Grand Pope, the villain in Saint Seiya (Knights of the Zodiac), and that of the hero in Muscleman. This cartoon caused controversy when it aired on the children's program Club Dorothée because one of the characters displayed a swastika.

A long career in film

In addition to the dozens of voice-over roles he performed, Michel Barbey played numerous supporting roles in films, alongside actors like Jean Gabin and Michel Simon, and had a career as a stage actor. On television, he notably played a judge in the series Cas de divorce (Divorce Cases) in the early 1990s. In the theater, he performed for a long time at the Comédie-Française.

"He was quite a character! He was going to celebrate his 99th birthday in April. He had been ill for some time, and his end was difficult," his wife, Natacha Guiboud-Barbey, told AFP.

BARBEY, Michel

Born: 4/23/1927, Drucourt, Eure, France

Died: 1/24/2026, France

 

Michel Barbey’s westerns – voice dubber:

The Brute and the Beast – 1966 [French voice of Franco Nero]

Johnny Yuma – 1966 [French voice of Luigi Vannucchi]

Three Graves for a Winchester – 1966 [French voice of Mickey Hargitay]

$10,000 for a Massacre – 1967 [French voice of Gianni Garko]

Viva Django! – 1968 [French voice of Terence Hill]

Cemetery Without Crosses – 1969 [French voice of Benito Stefanelli]

They Call Me Trinity – 1970 [French voice of Bud Spencer]

The Price of Death – 1971 [French voice of Gianni Garko]

The Outlaw Josey Wales – 1976 [French voice of Will Sampson]

The Frisco Kid – 1979 [French voice of George Di Cenzo]

Django Unchained – 2012 [French voice of Don Stroud]

RIP Sal Buscema

 

Sal Buscema, Comic Book Legend, Dead At 89

Comic Book Club

By Alex Zalban

January 26, 2026

 

Sal Buscema, a comic book legend known for his decade-long run on The Incredible Hulk, eight-year run on The Spectacular Spider-Man, and more, has reportedly passed away at age 89. Today would have been his 90th birthday.

The news was first reported on Facebook by artist Sterling Clark, who previously worked on an issue of a book called National Guardians that also included inks from Buscema. Clark was told by Buscema’s wife Joan that the legend passed away last Friday (January 23) — just shy of his 90th birthday. Wrote Clark:

“Wow. I just received word from Mrs. Joan that Sal Buscema passed away last Friday. He was 89. Today, he would’ve turned 90. When I think back on my childhood and all of the comic books that I read, Sal’s name seems to have appeared in just about all of them. I didn’t just read the books that he illustrated, I studied them.

Every nuance in his pencils and his inks I saw and tried to mimic. He was definitely one of the greats during those years at Marvel, when handling more than three titles a month was not just a requirement but a necessity. Sal’s art had a direct impact on my own, along with his older brother John, Jack Kirby, Gil Kane, John Romita Sr and Ron Frenz.

Ron, God bless him, was the person responsible for Sal and I meeting some time ago and for that I’ll be forever grateful. Sal was a very nice, kind and generous person who I am happy to have known and who took note of my skills enough to mentor me. The wonderful conversations we had will always be cherished.

My condolences to his wife Joan, the Buscema family and to all of us fans who grew up with and love his amazing art. I’ll have more posts later. – SC”

Originally from Brooklyn, Buscema started in the comic book industry as an inker, working with his brother John Buscema on art at Dell Comics. Though he bumped around to different jobs over time, it wasn’t until 1968 that he came into his own.

That’s when he interviewed at Marvel, under encouragement from his brother, and eventually got some work working on Western comics. He also worked with John on Silver Surfer, inking his brother’s pencils, before Buscema started pencilling Avengers.

Other runs for Marvel over the course of three decades include stints on The Uncanny X-Men, Sub-Mariner, Captain America, and Marvel Team-Up. In the latter, he created Jean DeWolff, and helped debut the spinoff Spider-Man title Spectacular Spider-Man. He also worked on New Mutants, and Thor with Walt Simonson.

Then in the ’90s he jumped over to DC for some work on Batman, Superman and others — though that only lasted two years before he moved back to Marvel.

Buscema married his wife, Joan, in 1960, and had three sons: Joe, Tony, and Mike. He’s been the recipient of the Inkpot Award, the Inkwell Awards, and the Ringo Award.

While the news has yet to spread on the internet as of this writing, other legends paid tribute to his birthday today, including J.M. Dematteis, who wrote on BlueSky, “Sal Buscema turns 90 today. There’s hardly a Marvel character Sal hasn’t left his mark on, from Cap to the Hulk, Avengers to Thor. Working with Sal for two years on Spectacular Spider-Man remains a highlight of my career. And the best part? He’s not just a great artist, he’s a truly good guy.”

BUSCEMA, Sal (Silvio Buscema)

Born: 1/26/1936, New York City, New York, U.S.A.

Died:  1/23/2026,

 

Sal Buscemi’s westerns – comic book artist:

Gunhawk – 1968

The Rawhide Kid – 1969

Western Gunfighters - 1970

RIP Salvatore Basile

 

Blu Radio

January 26, 2026

 

The mayor of Cartagena, Dumek Turbay, confirmed the death of actor Salvatore Basile, who described Basile as "a great citizen who gave a lot to the city."

Born in Fuggia, Italy, on May 18, 1940, Salvo Basile had an extensive career in film, theater, and television. His arrival in Cartagena in November 1968 marked a key moment in his career, as he worked as an assistant director for the renowned filmmaker Gillo Pontecorvo on the film “Burn!” (1969), starring Marlon Brando.

The actor participated in more than 40 international films. He worked with major figures such as Robert De Niro in "The Mission" (1986), with Bud Spencer in "Chi trova un amico, trova un tesoro" (1981) and "Banana Joe" (1982), and in productions by Werner Herzog and Francesco Rosi.

In Colombian cinema, he left his mark on emblematic titles such as "The Strategy of the Snail" (1993), "Eagles Don't Hunt Flies" (1994), and "Ilona Arrives with the Rain" (1996), where he served as executive producer and actor.

His artistic and cultural legacy leaves a profound mark on the audiovisual history of Cartagena and the country.

BASILE, Salvatore (Salvatore Basile Ferreira)

Born: 5/18/1940, Foggia, Apulia, Italy

Died: 1/26/2026, Cartagena, Colombia

 

Salvatore Basile’s westerns – actor, stuntman:

Once Upon a Time in the West - 1968 (Cheyenne henchman)

Duck You Sucker – 1971 (Santerna henchman)

Buddy Goes West – 1981 (army captain) [stunts]

RIP Nessa Hyams

Nessa Hyams Dies: Pathbreaking Casting Director Of ‘The Exorcist’ & ‘Blazing Saddles’, Director Of ‘Mary Hartman, Mary Hartman’ Was 84

DEADLINE

By Greg Evans

January 23, 2026

 

Nessa Hyams, a groundbreaking casting director of the New Hollywood whose work on such 1970s masterpieces as Peter Bogdanovich’s screwball comedy What’s Up, Doc?, William Friedkin’s The Exorcist and Mel Brooks’ Blazing Saddles, died January 9 at her home in Manhattan. She was 84.

Hyams, the head of casting at Warner Bros. from 1970-’74 and then vice president of creative affairs at Columbia Pictures from ’74-’75, was one of the highest-ranking female executives in Hollywood at the time.

In addition to her casting career – which assembled a roster of performers for some of the most enduring and celebrated films of the 1970s – Hyams directed 105 episodes of Norman Lear’s trend-setting soap opera satire Mary Hartman, Mary Hartman (starring Louise Lasser) during the show’s two and only seasons in 1976 and 1977. Her episode count is second only to that of Jim Drake, who directed 157 of the show’s 325 episodes.

Born November 21, 1941, in New York City to Broadway producer and publicist Barry Hyams and Ruth Hurok, the daughter of famed Russia-born show business impresario Sol Hurok, Nessa was the sister of Capricorn One writer-director Peter Hyams and stepdaughter of Arthur Lief, a Broadway and orchestra conductor who was blacklisted during the McCarthy era.

In 1971, Hyams launched her career as a casting director on the Robert Mulligan hit coming-of-age drama Summer of ’42, and the following year established herself when she cast Peter Bogdanovich’s screwball comedy What’s Up, Doc? starring Barbra Streisand and Ryan O’Neal, which became one of the year’s highest-grossing films. (Her work on another 1972 film, director Brian De Palma’s legendarily troubled comedy Get To Know Your Rabbit starring Tommy Smothers, John Astin, Katherine Ross and Orson Welles, went uncredited).

The following years brought Hyams continued success, with Friedkin’s seminal 1973 horror film The Exorcist and Brooks’ 1974 taboo-shattering comedy Western Blazing Saddles. Both were box office smashes. Less successful were two other ’74 entries, the John Wayne cop drama McQ and the notorious Lucille Ball flop Mame.

Whether working on box office successes or otherwise, Hyams established herself as a versatile casting director across various genres. Other film credits include Paul Mazursky’s dramedy Blume in Love (1973), Jack Starrett’s pioneering blaxploitation actioner Cleopatra Jones (1973), Mike Hodges’ horror-sci fi entry The Terminal Man (1974), Richard Rush’s Alan Arkin-James Caan comedy Freebie and the Bean (1974), and Arthur Penn’s neo-noir detective story Night Moves starring Gene Hackman (1975).

Though uncredited, Hyams is reported to have assisted director Mike Nichols in finding actors for both The Graduate (1967) and Catch-22 (1970). In a 2016 Film Talk interview, Peter Hyams said, “My sister was a great casting director. She cast pictures for Warner Brothers, pictures for Mike Nichols, for William Friedkin, etc. She was very smart. When I was casting Outland [1981], for the part of the doctor, I had a Charles Durning type of actor in mind, he was always so wonderful. My sister read the script and said to me, ‘Cast Frances Sternhagen to play the doctor.’ And I did, and she brought something to it that I hadn’t thought of; she made the character different.”

Known for her dry and quick wit, Hyams married Hollywood studio executive and producer David V. Picker on June 8, 1975 (Picker, who served as president of United Artists during its golden age, had been instrumental in bringing the James Bond franchise to the studio and establishing relationships with Woody Allen and other major filmmakers). The marriage ended in divorce, and Hyams went on to marry commercial real estate broker Jonathan Miller, who died in 2022.

Following her successes as a casting director, Hyams spent five years as Vice President of Production at Columbia Pictures, one of the first women to hold a major executive position at a studio. After training at the American Film Institute’s Directing Workshop for Women, Hyams made her feature directorial debut in 1987 with Leader of the Band, a comedy starring Steve Landesberg.

She also continued her television work, most notably directing the popular, droll, controversial and zeitgeist-capturing Mary Hartman, Mary Hartman. She later directed episodes of Cagney & Lacey (1987) and Chillers starring Anthony Perkins (1990).

In 1993, Hyams was the producer and casting director on Tim Hunter’s drama The Saint of Fort Washington starring Danny Glover and Matt Dillon.

In addition to brother Peter, Hyams is survived by sister Danna Hyams as well as her stepdaughters Caryn and Pam Picker and nephews Chris, John and Nick Hyams.

HYAMS, Nessa (Nessa M. Hyams)

Born: 11/21/1941, New York City, New York, U.S.A.

Died: 1/9/2026, Manhattan, New York, U.S.A.

 

Nessa Hyams’s western – casting director:

Blazing Saddles - 1974

RIP Yvonne Lime

 

Yvonne Lime Fedderson, Actress in ‘I Was a Teenage Werewolf‘ and ‘The Rainmaker,’ Dies at 90

She also starred in ‘Dragstrip Riot’ and ‘High School Hellcats’ before co-founding Childhelp, the nonprofit organization dedicated to helping abused, neglected and at-risk kids.

The Hollywood Reporter

By Mike Barnes

January 23, 2026

 

Yvonne Lime Fedderson, who starred in the exploitation films Dragstrip Riot and High School Hellcats and played Michael Landon’s girlfriend in I Was a Teenage Werewolf, all for American International Pictures in the 1950s, died Friday. She was 90.

Her death from natural causes at her home in Paradise Valley, Arizona, was announced by Childhelp, the nonprofit organization dedicated to helping abused, neglected and at-risk kids that she co-founded in 1959 with fellow actress Sara O’Meara.

“Yvonne was my dearest friend and my partner in this mission for more than six decades,” O’Meara said in a statement. “Her compassion, strength and belief in the power of love shaped Childhelp from its earliest days. I will forever be grateful for the life we built together in service to children.”

The women first met when they were on ABC’s The Adventures of Ozzie and Harriet.

As Yvonne Lime, she appeared in the Burt Lancaster-starring The Rainmaker (1956) as Snookie Maguire, a woman who draws the interest of Earl Holliman’s Jim Curry, and she recurred on Father Knows Best as Dottie Snow, a good friend of Elinor Donahue’s Betty Anderson; she showed up on 14 episodes of that CBS/NBC show from 1956-60.

She retired from acting after marrying TV producer Don Fedderson (The Millionaire, My Three Sons, Family Affair, The Betty White Show) in 1969. After his death in 1994, she served for more than 30 years as president and CEO of Don Fedderson Productions, managing the rights to his shows.

The daughter of a music teacher, Yvonne Glee Lime was born on April 7, 1935, in Glendale, California. While appearing in a Pasadena Playhouse production of Eugene O’Neill’s Ah, Wilderness!, she was spotted by an agent, launching her career.

In addition to Father Knows Best and The Rainmaker, she also showed up on episodes of The Millionaire, December Bride, West Point and The Adventures of Jim Bowie in 1956.

The next year, she played Arlene Logan in the cult horror film I Was a Teenage Werewolf, then received top billing in Dragstrip Riot and High School Hellcats, both released in 1958, and 1959’s Speed Crazy.

She and Ronnie Burns played a young couple who run a motel in Palm Springs on the 1960-61 NBC Happy (that’s the name of their baby, whose thoughts were spoken by an off-camera voice).

His résumé also included the 1957 films Untamed Youth and Elvis Presley’s Loving You and such TV series as The Many Loves of Dobie Gillis, Bat Masterson, Dragnet, The Bill Dana Show, The Andy Griffith Show and Gomer Pyle, U.S.M.C.

While on a USO Goodwill Tour in Japan, she and O’Meara became concerned with the plight of orphans and took the first steps toward founding what was then called International Orphans Inc.

Originally established to support kids in post-typhoon Japan, the organization evolved into Childhelp; today, it operates programs and services nationwide and has helped more than 14 million youngsters and families affected by abuse and neglect.

As president and vice-chairman, Fedderson was instrumental in building a national network of chapters and auxiliaries, inspiring thousands of volunteers and expanding programs such as the Childhelp National Child Abuse Hotline and the Childhelp Speak Up Be Safe prevention curriculum.

She and O’Meara co-wrote the 2003 book Silence Broken: Moving From a Loss of Innocence to a World of Healing and Love, and that became the 2006 Lifetime telefilm For the Love of a Child, starring Teri Polo as Yvonne and Peri Gilpin as Sara.

Childhelp celebrity ambassadors Kathie Lee Gifford and John Stamos paid tribute to Fedderson.

“Our precious Yvonne lived a life overflowing with extraordinary purpose and grace,” said Gifford. “Her beautiful smile lit up every room, but it was her hurting heart for children that truly illuminated the world. She believed in the depths of her soul in hope and healing, and God’s promise always wins. I am forever grateful to have known her and loved her as my treasured friend. Our loss is heaven’s gain.”

Said Stamos: “Yvonne Fedderson led with love. Her smile, her warmth and her fierce unwavering dedication to protecting children left an imprint on my heart and on the world. Through Childhelp, she helped save and protect millions of children who never would have had a voice without her. That is not just a legacy, it is a living miracle.”

LIME, Yvonne (Yvonne Glee Lime)

Born: 4/7/1935, Glendale, California, U.S.A

Died: 1/23/2026, Paradise Valley, Arizona, U.S.A.

 

Yvonne Lime’s westerns – actress:

The Rainmaker – 1956 (Snookie Maguire)

The Adventures of Jim Bowie TV - 1956 (Mary Lou Carter)

Bat Masterson TV - 1960 (Lola White)

Wichita Town TV - 1959 (Fran)

RIP Neil Stockstill

 

George Neil Stockstill obituary

Pellerin Funeral Home

January 20, 2026

 

St. Martinville - A graveside service will be held at 3:30 pm on Wednesday, January 21, 2026, at First Methodist Cemetery for George Neil Stockstill, 77, who passed away on January 19, 2026.

George Neil Stockstill was born and raised in St. Martinville, Louisiana, to Stanley Dexter Stockstill and Virginia Elnora Foti Stockstill. He was a graduate of St. Martinville Senior High School and attended Nicholls State University in Thibodaux, Louisiana.

George began his career as a boat captain in the oilfield and later became part owner of Hotsy High-Pressure Cleaning Systems. The majority of his professional life was spent in the motion picture industry, where he worked as a special effects coordinator and owner of NeilsFx. Specializing in wind, rain, and explosive effects, George contributed his talents to more than 50 movies, sitcoms, music videos, and television shows, earning respect for his skill, creativity, and dedication to his craft. He was also a talented artist and often created sculptures used on film sets.

Outside of his career, George had a true passion for sailing and found great joy on the water. He was a devoted New Orleans Saints fan and loved celebrating Mardi Gras, embracing the culture and traditions of Louisiana. Growing up, he was a decorated Eagle Scout and enjoyed playing football. Most of all, he treasured time spent with his children and grandchildren, who were a constant source of happiness and pride.

George was preceded in death by his parents, Stanley Dexter Stockstill and Virginia Elnora Foti Stockstill; his sister, Mary Ann Stockstill; and his brother, Mark Stanley Stockstill.

He is survived by his siblings: Joyce Magdeline Leece, Robert Shelby Stockstill (Sharon), and Virginia Faith Albert; his children: Jennifer Dover (Scott), Rebecca Lew (Tim), Mary Jane Stockstill, Ian Moses Stockstill, and Melissa Marie Kelly; and his grandchildren, Jakob Chehati, Elizabeth Kelly, and Ethan and Zoe Lew.

George Neil Stockstill will be remembered for his artistic talent, adventurous spirit, love of family, and the lasting impact he made both personally and professionally.

In lieu of flowers, please send a donation to Hospice of Acadiana.

Pellerin Funeral Home has been entrusted with arrangements.

STOCKSTILL, Neil (George Neil Stockstill)

Born: 10/17/1948, St. Martinville, Louisiana, U.S.A.

Died: 1/19/2026, St. Martinville, Louisiana, U.S.A.

 

Neil Stockstill’s Western – SFX:

The Journeyman - 2001

RIP Kevin Giffin

Several Facebook posts have mentioned the passing actor Kevin Giffin. Kevin was born in Mill Valley, California on May 1, 1959. After living in Zihuatanejo, Mexico for 8 years he moved to Los Angeles and began a fulltime acting career. He appeared in 20 films between 2008 and 2024.  

Kevin died after a long illness in Los Angeles on January 18, 2026. He was on 66 years old.

 

GIFFIN, Kevin

Born: 5/1/1959, Mill Valley, California, U.S.A

Died: 1/18/2026, Los Angeles, California, U.S.A.

 

Kevin Giffin’s western – actor:

The Scarlet Worm – 2012, (Hank)

RIP Stefan Gossler

 

Born in Siegen, he was the voice of Jackie Chan, Tim Allen and Michael Keaton: Stefan Gossler died at the age of 70

Siegener-Zeitung

January 21, 2026

The German voice of Jackie Chan and King Julien is silent forever - after a long illness, a well-known voice actor has died.

Berlin – A heavy loss is shaking the film industry. A familiar voice from cinema and television has fallen silent forever. For decades, he lent his unmistakable voice to well-known figures without most viewers knowing his face. Colleagues and fans are shocked.

The man with this familiar voice was Stefan Gossler. The 70-year-old, who has lent his German voice to Hollywood star Jackie Chan (71) since the 1990s and remains unforgotten as King Julien from "Madagascar", succumbed to a lengthy illness. The Facebook account "Fox and the Crew – Inside Synchron" announced on Tuesday (January 20): "Stefan Gossler, an incredibly lovable person and wonderful dubbing actor has passed away."

Mourning for actor and voice actor Stefan Gossler: "Made us laugh"

Gössler's versatility was evident in his broad spectrum. In addition to his most famous roles, he also dubbed Tim Allen (72, including in "Santa Clause 3" and "Last Man Standing") and Michael Keaton (74). He was also active as an actor - in TV series such as "Die Wicherts von nebenan" (1986–1991) and "Der Landarzt" (1996–1999) as well as in the ARD "Tatort" (1984, 1996).

The news of his death triggered a wave of grief. Gaming creator Christienco pays tribute to him on Instagram: "He made us laugh, accompanied us and breathed life into characters that will forever remain part of our childhood." Fans in the dubbing forum react stunned: "My heart is breaking. It comes out of nowhere." Another user adds: "I thought he always gave Jackie Chan something nice, likeable."

Companions are also saying goodbye. Peter Flechtner (63), himself known as the German voice of Ben Affleck (53), shares a video of Gossler on his Instagram account and honors him with the words: "In memory of our dear and great colleague Stefan Gossler, who left us far too early yesterday." With his death, the German film world has once again lost an important personality – after it had already had to cope with another heavy blow of fate.

GOSSLER, Stefan

Born: 12/14/1955, Siegen, North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany

Died: 1/19/2026

Stefan Gossler’s Westerns – voice actor:

Bonanza (TV) – 1967 [German voice of Michael Forest]

High Chaparral (TV) – 1968 [German voice of Denny Miller]

Glory - 1989 [German voice of Matthew Broderick]

Gunsmoke (TV) – 1970 [German voice of Sam Melville]

The Lone Ranger (TV) - 1953 [1990-1993 German voice of Russ Conway]

The New Adventured of Zorro (TV)- 1990 [German voice of Nicholas Guest]

Gettysburg – 1993 [German voice of Stephen Lang]

Zorro (TV) 1957-1959 [1994-1995 German voice of Guy Williams]

Balto – 1997 [German voice of Phil Collins]

Postman – 1997 [German voice of Tom Petty]

Rough Riders – 1997 [German voice of Tom Berenger]

The Will Rogers Story – 1952 [1997 German voice of Will Rogers Jr.]

Gunmen of the Rio Bravo – 1964 [1999 German voice of Guy Madison]

Shanghai-Noon – 2000 [German voice of Jackie Chan]

800 Bullets – 2002 [German voice of Enrique Martinez]

Lucky Luke (TV) – 2002 [German voice of Jolly Jumper]

And Starring Pancho Villa as Himself (TV) – 2003 [German voice of Fernando Becerril]

Cosmic Cowboys (TV) 2003 [German voice of Liar]

Deadwood (TV) – 2004-2006 [German voice of Zach Grenier]

Shango – 1970 [2005 German voice of Maurice Poli]

Twilight Avenger – 1970 [2005 German voice of Sheriff Wilson]

Sukiyaki Western Django – 2007 [German voice of Quentin Tarantino]

True Grit – 2010 [German voice of Joe Stevens]

Blackthorn – 2011 [German voice of Stephen Rea]

Longmire (TV) – 2013 [German voice of Xander Berkeley]

RIP Bruce Bilson

 

Beloved Director of ‘Get Smart,’ ‘Andy Griffith Show’ Dead at 97

Bilson was part of a four-generation Hollywood family.

Parade

By Kayla Aldecoa

January 21, 2026

 

Bruce Bilson, perhaps best known as the director of iconic 1960s television series such as Get Smart and The Andy Griffith Show, has died at the age of 97.

Bilson died at his home in Los Angeles on Friday, January 16, his daughter Julie Bilson Ahlberg confirmed to The Hollywood Reporter.

The beloved director was a part of a four-generation Hollywood family, which includes daughter Julie, producer of The Fog of War, granddaughter Rachel Bilson, known for The O.C. and Hart of Dixie, and son Danny Bilson, screenwriter for The Rocketeer and Da Five Bloods.

After graduating from UCLA School of Theater, Film and Television in 1950, Bilson would go on to win an Emmy for Outstanding Directing for a Comedy Series for the third season Get Smart.

In addition to Get Smart and The Andy Griffith Show, Bilson worked with Desilu productions on numerous occasions, directed shows such as Gidget and Hogan’s Heroes.

His lengthy filmography also includes classics like The Mary Tyler Moore Show, The Love Boat, Wonder Woman and The Odd Couple.

BILSON, Bruce (Bruce Leonard Bilson)

Born: 5/19/1928, New York City, New York, U.S.A.

Died: 1/16/2026, Los Angeles, California, U.S.A.

 

Bruce Bilson’s westerns – director:

The Life and Legend of Wyatt Earp (TV) – 1957, 1958

U.S. Marshal (TV) – 1958, 1959

The Texan (TV) – 1959

Bonanza (TV) - 1970

Alias Smith and Jones (TV) - 1972

Dusty’s Trail (TV) – 1973, 1974

Barbary Coast (TV) – 1975

The New Daughters of Joshua Cabe (TV) - 1976

The Wackiest Wagon Train in the West – 1976

RIP L.J. Martin

 

Prescott Daily Courier

January 17. 2026

LJ Martin passed away peacefully at his home in Prescott, Arizona, on January 14, 2026, following a long and courageous battle with cancer. He was 84.

The world has lost a gifted storyteller, prolific author, and creative force. Born Larry Jay Martin in Bakersfield, California, an oil and agricultural town he often referenced in his writing, he was raised there and attended local schools. In high school, he excelled in football and wrestling before attending California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo, where he studied architecture.

Larry left college during his junior year to support his growing family. Though he started writing his first western at the age of 25, family responsibilities led him to set writing aside until his early 40s— when he returned to it with extraordinary dedication and success.

Over his lifetime, LJ Martin authored more than 70 fiction and non-fiction books and became a respected figure in Western, mystery, and thriller literature. He was a co-founder of Wolfpack Publishing and held memberships in the Society of Professional Journalists, Western Writers of America, Mystery Writers of America, and International Thriller Writers. In addition to his writing career, Larry was a licensed California real estate broker, appraiser, and general contractor.

His contributions to literature were widely recognized. He received the Western Writers of America Lariat Award for his impact on Western literature and, in 2023, the Will Rogers Medallion Award for lifetime achievement.

In April 1985, Larry married Kathleen Kelly, who later, with Larry’s encouragement, became a New York Times Bestseller. Together, they shared a life rooted in creativity, adventure, and travel. They lived in Bakersfield, California, later moved to Missoula, Montana, and for the past five years, wintered in Prescott, Arizona.

Larry enjoyed hunting, fishing, cooking, traveling, and exploring the backcountry with his camera. His photography appeared on national magazine covers and in numerous publications, and much of his video work can be viewed on YouTube.

In recent years, LJ expanded his creative pursuits into film, serving as writer, director, and producer of two Western feature films: Eye for Eye, starring John Savage and Blanca Blanco, and Mr. Pettigrew, starring Eric Roberts, Shane Clouse, Chris Enss, Wyatt McCrae, and Davy Williams.

LJ Martin is survived by his beloved wife of 40 years, Kathleen “Kat” Martin; his three sons, Michael Martin of Bakersfield, California, Matthew Martin of Seattle, Washington, and Monte Martin of Missoula, Montana.

A memorial service will be held on Wednesday, January 21, 2026, at 2:00 p.m. at the Hassayampa Inn in Prescott, Arizona. Ruffner-Wakelin Funeral Home is handling the arrangements.

MARTIN, L. J. (Larry Jay Martin)

Born: 2/26/1941, Bakersfield, California, U.S.A.

Died: 1/14/2026, Prescott, Arizona, U.S.A.

 

L. J. Martin’s westerns – author:

Mojave Showdown – 1988

Clint Ryan – El Lazo - 1991

Clint Ryan: Against the 7^th Flag – 1991

Clint Ryan – The Devil’s Bounty – 1991

McKeag’s Mountain – 1991

Clint Ryan: The Benicia Belle – 1992

Clint Ryan: Shado of the Grizzly – 1993

Buckshot – 1994

Clint Ryan: Condor Canyon – 2000

Stranahan – 2002

McKeag’s Mountain – 2004

Wolf Mountain – 2004

O’Rourke’s Revenge – 2005

McCreed’s Law – 2006

Nemesis – 2011

Bullet Blues - 2012

Crimson Hit - 2012

Mr. Pettigrew – 2012

Quiet Ops - 2012

Eye for Eye – 2014

Revenge of the Damned – 2017

Shadows of Nemesis - 2018

Blackjack Brannigan - 2019

Rugged Trails – 2019

Two Thousand Grueling Miles – 2019

Stormy Seas – 2022

The Piccadilly – 2023

Callihan: The Earps – 2025

Callihan: Valley of Skulls – 2025

West of the War – 2025