RIP Gerry Spence

 

Gerry Spence, Famed Defense Attorney And Wyoming Native, Dies At 96

One of the most famous trial attorneys of the 20th century and a proud son of Wyoming, Gerry Spence, died overnight Wednesday, at the age of 96. Spence was a legend among the trial bar — especially for his civil practice and criminal defense work.

Cowboy State Daily

By Clair McFarland

August 14, 2025

 

One of the most famous trial attorneys of the 20th century and a proud son of Wyoming, Gerry Spence died Wednesday in his Montecito, California, home at the age of 96, his family says.

Spence was a legend among the trial bar, especially for his civil practice and criminal defense work.

He was known for his defense of the poor and injured, as well as for high-profile cases like the defense of Ed Cantrell in the famous Rock Springs murder case.

Spence rose to national prominence through a series of landmark cases, including a $10.5 million verdict for the family of nuclear whistleblower Karen Silkwood; the successful defense of former Philippine first lady Imelda Marcos; and the acquittal of Idaho survivalist Randy Weaver on the most serious charges stemming from the Ruby Ridge standoff.

His high-profile victories also included a $52 million judgment against McDonald’s and a $26.5 million libel award for Miss Wyoming against Penthouse magazine.

Beyond the courtroom, Spence began bringing lawyers to Thunderhead Ranch, in 1994, training generations of attorneys in the "Spence Method" - an approach centered on authenticity, emotional connection and moral courage. His program, Gerry Spence Method, continues today.

He was also a prolific author of more than a dozen books, a familiar voice on national television during major trials, and the recipient of lifetime achievement honors from the American Association for Justice and the American Trial Lawyers Hall of Fame.

Spence is survived by his wife of 57 years, LaNelle "Imaging" Spence; his brother Thomas Spence, his children Kip Spence, Kerry Spence, Kent Spence, Katy Spence, Brents Hawks and Christopher Hawks; 13 grandchildren; and one great-grandchild, according to Chris Hawks.

SPENCE, Gerry (Gerald Leonard Spence)

Born: 1/8/1929, Laramie, Wyoming, U.S.A.

Died: 8/13/2025, Montecito, California, U.S.A.

 

Gerry Spence’s western – actor:

Big Guns Talk: The Story of the Western (TV) – 1997 (attorney)

RIP Michael Sloan

 

Michael Sloan Dies: Co-Creator Of ‘The Equalizer’, Longtime Husband Of Melissa Sue Anderson Was 78

DEADLINE

By Greg Evans

August 15, 2025

 

Michael Sloan, the writer-producer who co-created with Richard Lindheim the durable 1980s TV series The Equalizer, died August 13. He was 78.

His death was announced by his family, which includes his wife of 35 years, the actor Melissa Sue Anderson, who starred in NBC’s Little House on the Prairie in the 1970s and ’80s. The family announcement did not name a place or cause of death but noted that he passed away peacefully.

Michael Fred Sloan was born to a show business family on October 14, 1946, in New York City. His grandfather, Fred Stone, was a vaudeville performer who played the Scarecrow in the 1902 Broadway production of The Wizard of Oz, and his parents Paula Stone and Michael Sloane were Broadway stage producers.

The family moved to London when Sloan was young, and it was there that he would later begin to write and produce feature films. He had returned to America where he wrote an acclaimed 1976 episode of Columbo titled “Now You See Him,” effectively launching his career.

Among the programs for which he subsequently wrote or produced were Quincy M.E. (for which he received an Emmy nomination), Harry O, McCloud, The Hardy Boys/Nancy Drew Mysteries, Battlestar Galactica, Kung Fu: The Legend Continues, The Return of the Man From U.N.C.L.E. and numerous episodes of The New Alfred Hitchcock Presents.

It was while working on a 1989 episode The New Alfred Hitchcock Presents that Sloan met Anderson, a guest star on that week’s episode. The couple married in 1990.

Sloan is perhaps best remembered for his co-creation of The Equalizer, the 1985-89 television series starring Edward Woodward as the mysterious justice-seeker Robert McCall. The series was rebooted in 2021, and has spawned a hit movie franchise starring Denzel Washington. Sloan was a producer of the films, and also wrote a series of Equalizer novels.

For the stage, Sloan wrote the 1989 thriller Underground, which was produced in Toronto and on London’s West End.

In addition to his wife, Sloan is survived by their children Piper and Griffin; sister Judy. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to the ASPCA in honor of Michael’s deep love for animals.

SLOAN, Michael (Michael Fred Sloan)

Born: 10/14/1946, New York City, New York, U.S.A.

Died: 8/13/2025, New York City, New York, U.S.A.

 

Michael Sloan’s western – writer:

Call of the Wild (TV) - 2000

RIP Ronie Rondell Jr.

 

Hedges-Scott-Millard Funeral Homes

August 12, 2025

Ronald "Ronnie" Rondell Obituary

 

Ronald Reid Rondell, age 88, of Camdenton, Missouri, formally of California, passed away on August 12, 2025, at Arrowhead Senor Living. He was born on February 10, 1937, in Hollywood, California, a son of Ronald S. and Ruth (Durham) Rondell.

He was united in marriage to Mary Smith on May 23, 1969, in Palms Spring, California. They shared 56 years together at the time of his passing.

Ronnie was a professional stuntman for many years and during his career he was a director and stunt man coordinator. Ronnie in 1970 started his own Stunts company, which was called Stunts Unlimited in Calabasas, California.

Ronnie is survived by his wife Mary Rondell; his son R.A. Rondell (Debby); his grandchildren Brandon Rondell (Bea), Rachel Rondell (Brenton), and Dalton Rondell; his great-grandchild Rocco Rondell; his brother Ric Rondell (Kathy); other relatives and many friends.

Ronald was preceded by his son Reid Rondell, and his parents Ronald and Ruth Rondell.

Services will be held at a later date in California.

Arrangements are under the direction of Hedges-Scott-Millard Funeral Homes, 1270 S Business Route 5, Camdenton, MO 65020 (573) 346-2090. Condolences may be left online for the family at www.hedgesscottmillard.com.

RONDELL Jr., Ronnie (Ronald Reid Rondell)

Born: 2/10/1937, Los Angeles, California, U.S.A.

Died: 8/12/2025, Osage Beach, Missouri, U.S.A

 

Ronnie Rondell Jr.’s westerns – assistant director, stuntman, actor:

Cimarron City (TV) – 1958-1960[stunts]

Tales of Wells Fargo (TV) – 1958, 1961 [assistant director]

The Restless Gun (TV) – 1959 (cowboy) [stunts]

Laramie (TV) – 1960 (brawler, stage driver) [stunts]

Riverboat (TV) – 1960 (Kicking Bear)

Wagon Train (TV) –1960 (Henry Tate)

Shotgun Slade (TV) – 1961 (Deputy Frank Collins) [stunts]

How the West Was Won – 1962 [stunts]

Frontier Circus (TV) – 1962 (Italy)

The Virginian (TV) – 1963, 1964, 1966 (Comanchero, brawler, Jason)

Gunsmoke (TV) – 1964 [stunts]

The Glory Guys – 1965 [stunts]

Shenandoah – 1965 [stunts]

Laredo (TV) – 1965 (Pepi) [stunts]

Iron Horse (TV) – 1966-1968 [stunts]

The Rare Breed – 1966 [stunts]

Custer (TV) – 1967 [stunts]

The Over-the-Hill Gang – 1969 [stunts]

Blazing Saddles – 1974 [stunts]

Paradise (TV) – 1988, 1990 (man whiskey salesman)

American Outlaws – 2001 [stunts]

RIP Tristan Rogers

 

Tristan Rogers Dies: ‘General Hospital’ Star Was 79 

DEADLINE

By Lynette Rice

August 15, 2025

 

Tristan Rogers, best known for playing Robert Scorpio on ABC’s General Hospital, died August 15. He was 79.

His passing was confirmed by his longtime manager Meryl Soodak. In July, it was revealed that Rogers had been diagnosed with cancer.

Soodak told ABC/7 that Rogers was not a smoker.

“He loved being Scorpio and he created that role from nothing,” Soodak said. “He was supposed to work a day and he ended up making it into something huge. He was just a genuinely loyal, kind human being and he loved his family.”

The Australian-born Rogers played Scorpio on and off on GH since 1980. He won a Daytime Emmy for his work in the digital drama Studio City. Rogers last appeared on GH on November 12, when his character left Port Charles.

“The entire General Hospital family is heartbroken to hear of Tristan Rogers’ passing,” General Hospital executive producer Frank Valentini said today. “Tristan has captivated our fans for 45 years and Port Charles will not be the same without him (or Robert Scorpio). I would like to extend my deepest sympathies to his family and friends during this difficult time. Tristan was a one-of-a-kind talent and will be greatly missed. May he rest in peace.”

Reps for Rogers released this statement last month after revealing Rogers’ diagnosis.

“While he remains hopeful and is working closely with his medical team on a treatment plan, this is a challenging time for Tristan and his family,” the statement read. “As they face both the emotional and physical burdens that come with this diagnosis, the family kindly asks for privacy and understanding. They are deeply grateful for the outpouring of support and love from their friends and family. Tristan sends his love to his fans and wants them to know how much he appreciates their loyalty and encouragement over the years.  This support means more to him now than ever. Future updates will be shared if deemed appropriate by Tristan and his family.”

Besides GH, Rogers also appeared on The Bold and the Beautiful, The Young and the Restless and The Bay.

Rogers is survived by his wife, Teresa; two children; and a grandchild.

ROGERS, Tristan (Tristan A. Rogers)

Born: 6/3/1946, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia

Died: 8/15/2025, Palm Springs, California, U.S.A.

 

Tristan Rogers’ western – actor:

Tristan Rogers Dies: ‘General Hospital’ Star Was 79

RIP David Roya

 

Schwartz Brothers-Jeffer Memorial Chapels

January 14, 2025

 

In loving memory of David Roya (Queens, New York), who departed this world on January 13, 2025, at the age of 82. David leaves behind a legacy remembered by family and friends. Family and friends are welcome to send flowers or leave their condolences on this memorial page and share them with the family.

In the soft embrace of remembrance, we recall the profound impact David had on those he encountered along his journey. Though David may have slipped beyond the veil of mortality, his essence lingers like a faint fragrance in the air, a lingering reminder of the beauty and complexity of the human experience.

A funeral service for David will be held Wednesday, January 15, 2025, from 12:00 PM to 1:00 PM at Schwartz Brothers-Jeffer Memorial Chapels, 114-03 Queens Blvd, Forest Hills, NY 11375. Following the funeral service will be a committal service from 1:30 PM to 2:30 PM at Beth David Cemetery, 300 Elmont Rd, Elmont, NY 11003.

ROYA, David (David Roy Abramson)

Born: 9/21/1942, Queens, New York, U.S.A.

Died: 1/13/2025, Forest Hills, New York, U.S.A.

 

David Roya’s westerns – actor:

F Troop (TV) – 1966 (Indian warrior)

Billy Jack – 1971 (Bernard)

Westworld – 1973 (bar room brawler)

The White Buffalo – 1977 (Kid Kelly)

RIP Allison Louise Downe

 

The Something Weird Video Fan Club

August 6, 2025

RIP Allison Louise Downe, mysterious exploitation/grindhouse/drive-in legend. She was the screenwriter of the Herschell Gordon Lewis classics BLOOD FEAST, THE GRUESOME TWOSOME, SHE-DEVILS ON WHEELS, JUST FOR THE HELL OF IT, and THE GIRL, THE BODY AND THE PILL. Billed as Bunny Downe, she acted in movies for filmmakers Doris Wishman, Barry Mahon, and Bunny Yeager. Seen here (under the name Vickie Miles) (with William Kerwin) as the star of Lewis’ SCUM OF THE EARTH (1963). Downe occasionally spoke with the mainstream press during her filmmaking years (see clippings below). In the past several decades, she had declined numerous interview requests from grindhouse scholars.

DOWNE, Louise (Alma Louise Downe)

Born: 8/12/1937, Miami, Florida, U.S.A.

Died: 6/24/2025, Chicago, Illinois, U.S.A.

 

Louise Downe’s western – writer:

Linda and Abilene - 1969

RIP Peter David

Peter David (1956–2025): Prolific and Beloved Writer of Comics, Science Fiction, and Television

First Comics News

May 25, 2025

 

Peter David, the award-winning author best known for his groundbreaking work in comic books, novels, and television, passed away passed away during the night on May 24, 2025, after a lengthy illness. A singular voice in the world of speculative fiction, David leaves behind a body of work that is as vast as it is influential, and a legacy that will continue to shape popular culture for generations to come.

Born on September 23, 1956, Peter Allen David began his career in publishing before moving into comics in the early 1980s. He quickly became one of the medium’s most distinctive and beloved writers. His legendary 12-year run on The Incredible Hulk for Marvel Comics redefined the character with psychological depth and human complexity, especially through the introduction of the intelligent “Joe Fixit” and the layered portrayal of Bruce Banner’s fractured psyche.

David’s work extended far beyond the Hulk. He wrote critically acclaimed runs on X-Factor, Spider-Man 2099, Aquaman, Supergirl, and Captain Marvel, often injecting his trademark wit, emotion, and socio-political commentary into superhero stories. His writing was known for blending sharp humor with deeply human storytelling, earning him a devoted readership across decades.

In addition to comics, David was a prolific novelist, especially renowned for his contributions to the Star Trek expanded universe. His Star Trek: New Frontier series was a fan favorite, noted for its original characters and continuity-rich storytelling. He also wrote popular novels based on Babylon 5, The Phantom, and his own original creations, including the Sir Apropos of Nothing fantasy series.

On television, David contributed to episodes of Babylon 5, Young Justice, and Ben 10, and served as a creative consultant on several animated series. His versatility across media — from screenwriting to prose, comics to commentary — made him one of the most adaptable and insightful storytellers of his time.

Peter David was not just prolific — he was passionate about storytelling in all forms, a vocal advocate for creator rights, and a frequent presence at conventions, where he engaged warmly and candidly with fans. He was a mentor to many and an inspiration to countless writers who followed.

He is survived by his wife, Kathleen, and his children. His wit, imagination, and compassion will be sorely missed — but his words, like the heroes he wrote, will live on.

DAVID, Peter (Peter Allen David)

Born: 9/23/1956, Ft. Meade, Maryland, U.S.A.

Died: 5/24/2025, Patchogue, Long Island, New York, U.S.A

 

Peter David’s westerns – actor:

Oblivion – 1993 (cowboy)

Backlash: Oblivion 2 – 1994 (petrified cowboy)