RIP Kris Kristofferson

 

Kris Kristofferson, Country Music Legend and ‘A Star Is Born’ Leading Man, Dies at 88

Variety

By Chris Morris

September 29, 2024

 

Kris Kristofferson, who attained success as both a groundbreaking country music singer-songwriter and a Hollywood film and TV star, died Saturday at home in Maui, Hawaii. No cause of death was given, but he was described as passing away peacefully while surrounded by family. He was 88.

Said his family in a statement, “It is with a heavy heart that we share the news our husband/father/grandfather, Kris Kristofferson, passed away peacefully on Saturday, Sept. 28 at home. We’re all so blessed for our time with him. Thank you for loving him all these many years, and when you see a rainbow, know he’s smiling down at us all.” The statement was offered on behalf of Kristofferson’s wife, Lisa; his eight children, Tracy, Kris Jr., Casey, Jesse, Jody, John, Kelly and Blake; and his seven grandchildren.

Kyle Young, the CEO of the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum, said, “Kris Kristofferson believed to his core that creativity is God-given, and that those who ignore or deflect such a holy gift are doomed to failure and unhappiness. He preached that a life of the mind gives voice to the soul, and then he created a body of work that gave voice not only to his soul but to ours. Kris’s heroes included the prize fighter Muhammad Ali, the great poet William Blake, and the ‘Hillbilly Shakespeare,’ Hank Williams. He lived his life in a way that honored and exemplified the values of each of those men, and he leaves a righteous, courageous and resounding legacy that rings with theirs.”

Kristofferson had already spent several modestly successful years in Music City’s song mills by the time he broke through as the author of such No. 1 country hits as “For the Good Times” (Ray Price, 1970), “Sunday Morning Coming Down” (Johnny Cash, 1970) and “Help Me Make It Through the Night” (Sammi Smith, 1971). His song “Me and Bobby McGee” became a posthumous No. 1 pop hit for his former paramour Janis Joplin in 1971.

His first four albums for Monument Records, which showcased his rough, unmannered singing and poetically crafted, proto-outlaw country songs, all reached the country top 10, and 1972’s “Jesus Was a Capricorn,” which contained his No. 1 country hit “Why Me,” topped the country LP chart. He won three Grammys: for best country song (“Help Me Make It Through the Night”) and a pair of duets with Rita Coolidge, to whom he was married from 1973-80.

KRISTOFFERSON, Kris (Kristoffer Kristofferson)

Born: 6/22/1936, Brownsville, Texas, U.S.A.

Died: 9/28/2024, Maui, Hawaii, U.S.A.

 

Kris Kristofferson’s westerns – actor:

Pat Garret and Billy the Kid – 1973 (Billy the Kid)

Heaven’s Gate – 1980 (Averill)

The Last Days of Frank and Jesse James (TV) – 1986 (Jesse James)

Stagecoach (TV) – 1986 (Ringo Kid/Bill Williams)

The Tracker (TV) – 1988 (Noble Adams)

Pair of Aces (TV) – 1990 (Rip Metcalf)

Another Pair of Aces: Three of a Kind (TV) – 1991 (Rip Metcalf)

Outlaw Justice (TV) – 1999 (Jesse Ray Torrance)

Requiem for Billy the Kid – 2006 [narrator]

Miracle in the Wilderness (TV) – 1991 (Jericho Adams)

Sodbusters (TV) – 1994 (Destiny)

Adventures of the Old West – 1995

Blue Rodeo – (TV) 1996 (Owen Whister)

Pharaoh’s Army – 1995 (Preacher)

Lone Star – 1996 (Charlie Wade)

Dead Man’s Gun (TV) – 1997-1999 [narrator]

Two for Texas (TV) – 1998 (Hugh Allison)

Comanche – 2000 (Sergeant Sam Winchester)

Go West Young Man - 2003

Gun – 2005 [voice of Ned White]

Requiem for Billy the Kid - 2006

Fallout: New Vegas – 2010 (

The Last Rites of Ransom Pride – 2010 (Sheperd Graves)

Texas Rising (TV) 2015 (Andrew Jackson)

Traded – 2016 (Billy)

Hickok – 2017 (George Knox)

Born on the Rez – 2018 [himself]

RIP John Ashton

 

'Beverly Hills Cop' Actor John Ashton Dead at 76

TMZ

9/29/2024

 

John David Ashton ... the actor best known as the hard-nosed, by-the-book detective in the "Beverly Hills Cop" franchise has died, TMZ has learned.

John died peacefully Thursday in Ft. Collins, Colorado after a battle with cancer ... his rep tells us.

During his 50 years in Hollywood, John appeared in more than 200 film, TV and stage productions ... but he arguably became a household name when he co-starred alongside an up-and-coming Eddie Murphy in 1984's "Beverly Hills Cop."

The actor appeared in three of the four 'BHC' films ... including the most recent ... which was released to positive reviews from fans and critics on Netflix this year.

In the franchise, John played Detective Sergeant John Taggart ... who acted as the straight man for Eddie's antics as Axel Foley. Judge Reinhold played his goody, but lovable partner, Detective Billy Rosewood.

The Springfield, MA native also appeared in "M*A*S*H" and played Eric Stoltz's father in the John Hughes comedy-drama "Some Kind of Wonderful." In 1988, he co-starred in the action-comedy "Midnight Run" as a rival bounty hunter to Robert De Niro's character.

His most recent gig ... in addition to the fourth 'BHC' film ... co-hosting the "Ashton and Davis Show on 870 ESPN Radio."

John's rep Alan Somers tells TMZ, "John leaves behind a legacy of love, dedication, and service. His memory will forever be treasured by his wife, children, grandchildren, as well as his brother, sisters, his extended family and all who loved him. John’s impact on the world will be remembered and celebrated for generations to come."

The family requests any donations in John’s memory be made to Pathways Hospice Care.

He was 76.

RIP

ASHTON, John (John David Ashton)

Born: 2/22/1948, Springfield, Massachusetts, U.S.A.

Died: 9/26/2024, Ft. Collins, Colorado, U.S.A.

 

John Ashton’s westerns – actor:

Hot Bath, Stiff Drink, an’ a Close Shave – 2014 (Judge Nathan Rivers)

Hot Bath, an a Stiff Drink 2 - 2014 (Judge Nathan Rivers)

 

RIP Klaus Manchen

 Actor Klaus Manche passed away

Nacht kritik

September 29, 2024

 

September 29, 2024. The actor Klaus Manche has died. This is reported by the Berliner Zeitung. Manchen, born in Breslau in 1936, was a member of the ensemble of Berlin's Maxim Gorki Theater from 1965 to 2002. In addition, he was a well-known film and television actor - most recently in Rostock's Polizeiruf 110, where he played the not entirely law-abiding father of Inspector Buckow (Charlie Hübner).

Growing up in Berlin after the war, Manche trained as an actor at the State Drama School in Berlin-Schöneweide (today's HfS Ernst Busch). He worked with directors such as Fritz Bornemann, Horst Schönemann, Albert Hetterle, Wolfgang Heinz and Thomas Langhoff, in whose legendary production "Transitional Society" (1987) he participated. He also appeared in Defa classics such as "Ich war 19" by Konrad Wolf (1969) or Thomas Langhoff's Thomas Mann film adaptation "Lotte in Weimar" (1975). Even after 1989, he remained a sought-after film actor and worked with directors such as Dominik Graf, Matti Geschonnek and Max Färberböck.

Klaus Manche died at the age of 87 on September 27, 2024, in Dahlwitz-Hoppegarten near Berlin.

MANCHEN, Klaus (Klaus-Joachim Manchen)

Born: 12/1/1936, Breslau, Silesia, Germany

Died:  9/27/2024, Dahlwitz-Hoppegarten, Brandenburg, Germany

 

Klaus Manchen’s westerns – actor, voice actor:

The Long Ride to School – 1981 (Jack Bull)

The Scout – 1982 (Sergeant Anderson)

The Trail to the Silver Sea – 1985-1989 [German voice of Big Bear]

RIP Drake Hogestyn

 

‘Days of Our Lives’ star Drake Hogestyn dead at 70 — one day before his birthday

New York Post

By Jacki Thrapp

September 29, 2024

 

Longtime “Days of our Lives” star Drake Hogestyn died following a battle with pancreatic cancer on Saturday — just one day before his 71st birthday.

Hogestyn, who played John Black on the hit soap opera for nearly 40 years, “passed away peacefully” surrounded by loved ones, the show’s official Instagram announced.

“It’s with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Drake Hogestyn,” the statement read. “He was thrown the curve ball of his life when he was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer, but he faced the challenge with incredible strength and determination.

“After putting up an unbelievable fight, he passed peacefully surrounded by loved ones. He was the most amazing husband, father, papa and actor. He loved performing for the Days audience and sharing the stage with the greatest cast, crew, and production team in the business. We love him and we will miss him all the Days of our Lives.”

Hogestyn was born in Fort Wayne, Indiana. He played college baseball at the University of South Florida and earned a double major in microbiology and applied sciences, according to Soap Opera Digest.

He planned on becoming an oral surgeon but instead was drafted by the Cardinals and then the Yankees, who selected Hogestyn in the final round of the 1976 MLB Draft. He played in the organization’s minor league system until injuries derailed his career.

“Those who can keep injury-free and their head together and their weight down, those are the ones who are going to move up,” he told MiLB in 2020. “But when you’re a last-round pick and you mix in an injury … there’s no investment there. And I knew that.”

He moved to Los Angeles after being selected for an acting training program with Columbia Pictures.

The actor was cast as the character of John Black – a mysterious police officer, private investigator and secret agent on the show. Hogestyn starred in the hit soap opera for 38 years and filmed over 4,200 episodes.

Other credits include “Seven Brides for Seven Brothers,” a guest role in “Criminal Minds” and acting in the Hallmark holiday movie “Christmas Tree Lane.”

Hogestyn’s castmates remembered the actor as an “incredible man.”

Alison Sweeney, who played Sami Brady on the show wrote on X “Drake was an incredible man. He was funny, generous and thoughtful. He cared about every single scene, every person. He loved Days, the fans, and shared that passion with everyone on set. My heart breaks for his family, they meant everything to him.  He was such a huge part of my life at Days. I will miss him terribly and treasure every story, every joke & every hug.”

“I will always love you. You were more than just my tv father, in my eyes you were my dad. Thank you for everything you taught me and the love you gave me. The world lost a true Hero. Miss and love you so much Drake. Rest in Peace Dad,” said Christopher Sean, who played the role of his television son on “DOOL.”

“So sad to hear of Drake Hogestyn’s passing,” Genie Francis, who appeared on the show for 2 years said. “Such a wonderful and kind man. It was a pleasure to work with him. I always loved how much he loved his wife and children.”

He is survived by his wife, Victoria Post, his four children Whitney, Alexandra, Rachael, and Ben and seven grandchildren.

HOGESTYN, Drake (Donald Drake Hogestyn)

Born: 9/29/1953, Fort Wayne, Indiana, U.S.A.

Died: 9/28/2024, Los Angeles, California, U.S.A.

 

Drake Hogestyn’s western – actor:

Seven Brides for seven Brothers (TV) 1982-1983 (Brian McFadden)

RIP Phil Spangenberger

 

True West Magazine/Wild West History Association

By Stuart Rosebrook/Robert Bandhauer 

September 28, 2024

 

~In Memory of Phil Spangenberger~

On September 26, 2024, True West’s 2022 True Westerner of the Year and beloved Firearms Editor Phil Spangenberger died suddenly during a heart procedure. Phil was considered one of the most noted experts on 19th- and early 20th–century American firearms. He was a contributor to True West for over 20 years, and for four decades the black powder firearms editor for Guns & Ammo.

A highly regarded film and television firearms consultant and coach, Phil was the founder of Red River Western Wear and Old West Gun Holsters. Many likened him to a modern Buffalo Bill, who inspired generations of men and women to become reenactors, to collect and wear correct period Western clothing, and become participants in Cowboy Mounted Shooting Association and the Single Action Shooting Society.

He was an inspiration to thousands around the world, a renowned horseman, reenactor and Western entertainer. Phil, a native of Florida, is survived by his beloved wife, Linda J. Spangenberger, of Chino Valley, Arizona. He was 84 years old.

True West will publish Phil’s final column and review in the January-February 2025 issue with an extended memorial of his life and career.

It is with deep sadness that we learn of the passing of Phil Spangenberger of Prescott, AZ. Throughout his life, Phil made an extraordinary impact on preserving and promoting the rich history of the Old West with his unmatched expertise and passion. From his role as the Firearms Editor at True West Magazine to his contributions as a writer for numerous publications and his work as an independent film consultant, Phil’s influence extended far beyond California and Arizona, touching the lives of enthusiasts across the nation and around the world.

His dedication to keeping the spirit of the Old West alive left an indelible mark on countless individuals. Phil’s legacy is one of pride, knowledge, and a deep love for history, and though he is no longer with us, he will forever hold a place in our hearts. His absence will be deeply felt by many.

Our thoughts and prayers are with his immediate family and close friends during this difficult time. Rest in peace, Phil, and thank you for the lasting contributions you made to the heritage we hold so dear.

SPANGENBERGER, Phil (Phillip Howard Spangenberger)

Born: 5/11/1940, Miami, Florida, U.S.A.

Died: 9/26/2024, Chino Valley, Arizona, U.S.A.

 

Phil Spangenberger’s westerns – actor, firearms expert:

Blind Justice – 1994 [quick-draw specialist]

Maverick – 1994 [quick draw specialist]

The Avenging Angel (TV) – 1995 [gun specialist]

Wild West Tech (TV) – 2003-2005 [history consultant]

Vengeance Trail – 2006 (Cole)

Road to Los Angeles – 2012 [technical advisor]

RIP Kathryn Crosby

 

Kathryn Crosby, Actor and Widow of Bing Crosby, Dies at 90

Variety

By Andrés Buenahora

September 21, 2024

 

Kathryn Crosby, the actor, singer and widow of Bing Crosby, died Friday evening of natural causes at her home in Hillsborough, Calif. She was 90.

A representative for the Crosby family announced the news.

Crosby starred in over 20 films over the course of her career including “The 7th Voyage of Sinbad,” “Anatomy of a Murder,” “Operation Mad Ball” and “The Wild Party.” She typically performed under the stage names Kathryn Grant and Kathryn Grandstaff.

Crosby appeared frequently on Bing Crosby’s “Merrie Olde Christmas” specials and hosted “The Kathryn Crosby Show,” a 30-minute talk show based in San Francisco. Following the death of her husband in 1977, she performed in several stage productions such as the 1996 Broadway revival of “State Fair.”

Crosby also hosted the charitable Crosby National Golf Tournament in Bermuda Run, North Carolina for many years.

After graduating from the University of Texas at Austin, Crosby won a beauty contest, which earned her a screen test with William Holden. She began her film career in 1953 while writing a column about Hollywood for her hometown newspaper. She met Bing Crosby while conducting interviews for her column on the set of the film “White Christmas.” The two married in 1957. She became a registered nurse and teacher in 1963.

Crosby is survived by her three children, Harry, Mary and Nathaniel, as well as several grandchildren. No funeral plans have yet been announced at the time of publication.

Some of her other credits include “Queen of the Lot,” “This is Life,” “The Initiation of Sarah,” “Cyrano de Bergerac,” “Ben Casey”, “Bob Hope Presents the Chrysler Theatre,” “The House Next Door,” “1001 Arabian Nights,” “The Big Circus,” “Gunman’s Walk,” “The George Sanders Mystery Theater,” “Love Has No Alibi,” “The Brothers Rico,” “The Night the World Exploded,” “The Guns of Fort Petticoat,” “Mister Cory,” “The Ford Television Theatre,” “The Connoisseur,” “A Kiss for Santa,” “The Policy of Joe Aladdin,” “Hanrahan,” “Reprisal!” and “Touch of Spring.”

CROSBY, Kathryn (Olive Kathryn Grandstaff)

Born: 11/25/1933, Houston, Texas, U.S.A.

Died: 9/20/2024, Hillsborough, California, U.S.A.

 

Kathryn Crosby’s westerns – actress:

Arrowhead – 1953 (Miss Mason)

Reprisal – 1956 (Taini)

The Guns of Fort Petticoat – 1957 (Anne Martin)

Gunman’s Walk – 1958 (Clee Clouard)

RIP David Graham

 

Peppa Pig and Thunderbirds actor David Graham dies

BBC

By Helen Bushby

September 20, 2024

 

David Graham, the actor who provided the voice for characters in TV series including Peppa Pig, Thunderbirds and Doctor Who, has died aged 99.

As the voice behind the evil Daleks in Doctor Who, Graham terrified successive generations of children between the 1960s and late 70s.

He was also well known as the voice of Aloysius Parker, the butler and chauffeur in 1960s TV series Thunderbirds and its film sequels.

But to today's generation of children, he will be most familiar as the voice of Grandpa Pig in the TV series Peppa Pig.

The character, married to Granny Pig and the father of Mummy Pig and Aunt Dottie, was referred to as "Papa Ig" by his young grandson George.

On-screen, Graham appeared in two episodes of the first series of Doctor Who as an actor, but became much better known as the unemotional, harsh voice of the Daleks.

In an interview with the Mirror in 2015 about voicing the Daleks, Graham recalled: “I created it with Peter Hawkins, another voice actor.

“We adopted this staccato style then they fed it through a synthesizer to make it more sinister.”

As well as voicing Parker for the futuristic children's puppet series Thunderbirds, he also played the show's pilot Gordon Tracy, and Brains the engineer, between 1965 and 1966.

He reprised the role of Parker for an ITV remake of the show in 2015, called Thunderbirds Are Go! and was the only original cast member to return.

Parker, famous for saying "Yes m'lady", worked for Lady Penelope, who was played in the more recent version by Saltburn star and ex-Bond actress Rosamund Pike.

Graham said at the time: "I am triple chuffed to be on board the new series... and reprising my role of dear old Parker with such a distinguished cast.

"My driving skills are in good nick and I am delighted to be behind the wheel again with m'lady."

He told The Mirror that the show's creator, Gerry Anderson, had helped with the inspiration for Parker's voice back in the 1960s.

“Gerry took me to lunch because he wanted me to hear the voice of somebody, a wine waiter,” the actor said.

“He had been a butler to the former Prince of Wales.

“He said, ‘Would you like to see the wine list sir?’ and that was the birth of Parker.

"I just made him a bit more villainous. I’m not sure the guy ever knew – he might have demanded a royalty!”

The actor, who was born in London, told The Mirror he knew early on which career he wanted to pursue.

“At school I always wanted to say the poem or read the story. I always wanted to act,” he told the newspaper

He had to postpone his acting interests when World War Two happened, however, and worked as a radar mechanic.

But afterwards, having not enjoyed his post-war work as an office clerk, he joined his sister and her American GI husband in New York, where he attended a theatre school.

After returning home, he worked in repertory theatre before getting work the first Doctor Who series.

Graham was also a member of Lawrence Olivier’s company at the National Theatre.

His long career also included providing the voice for Wise Old Elf and Mr Gnome for Ben & Holly's Little Kingdom, shown in the UK on Channel 5.

He also had brief appearances in ITV's Coronation Street, The Bill and London's Burning and BBC dramas Doctors and Casualty.

GRAHAM, David

Born: 7/11/1925, London, England, U.K.

Died: 9/20/2024

 

David Graham’s western – voice actor:

Four Feather Falls – 1960 [English voice of Grandpa Ebenezer Twink, Fernando the bandit, Big Ben the bandit]