Whitney Rydbeck — an actor known for his roles in the film ‘Friday the 13th’ and several major sitcoms — has died… according to his longtime friend.
The actor passed away early last week, according to his friend, the director Tommy McLoughlinwho posted the news a few days ago… saying that the world has lost a truly funny comedian and a kind-hearted friend.
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O Hollywood Reporter also spoke with McCloughlin… who told them he died of complications from prostate cancer while in hospice care in Chatsworth, California.
Whitney began his acting career in the early 1970s, making small appearances in single episodes of shows such as “The Brady Bunch,” “Big John, Little John,” “M*A*S*H,” and “Switch.” He continued to make major TV appearances on shows such as “3rd Rock From the Sun” and “Scrubs” throughout his life.
Horror fans will remember his hilarious performance as Roy in “Friday the 13th Part VI: Jason Lives,” a paintball player who shoots Jason Voorhees but ends up being murdered by the villain.
His other film roles include “1941”, “Rocky II”, “Oliver & Company” and a role as a silent robot in Woody Allen“Sleeper”, where he put his miming skills to use.
Whitney later made an even bigger impact away from mainstream movies and TV… starring as crash test dummy Larry in public service announcements urging people to wear seat belts.
The commercials were so important that one of Rydbeck’s original costumes ended up in the Smithsonian.
Most recently, Rydbeck taught theater at Pasadena City College. He is survived by his longtime partner, clear.
Rydbeck was 79 years old.
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