Gerrit Graham, a notable actor recognized for his work in Phantom of the Paradise (1974) and Star Trek series, has passed away at the age of 76.
Graham succumbed to lung disease and other health issues on Tuesday in Rhinebeck, NY, as reported by Variety.
Born on November 27, 1949, in New York City, Graham honed his acting skills at Columbia University, leading the Columbia Players theater group. His film career began with a role in Brian De Palma’s 1968 film Greetings.
Graham is perhaps best remembered for his portrayal of the flamboyant rock musician Beef in De Palma’s 1974 rock musical horror film Phantom of the Paradise. He also appeared in different roles on Star Trek: Deep Space Nine and Star Trek: Voyager.
Throughout his career, Graham featured in a variety of films including Beware! The Blob (1972), Demon Seed (1977), Used Cars (1980), National Lampoon’s Class Reunion (1982), TerrorVision (1986), Chopping Mall (1986), Police Academy 6: City Under Siege (1989), C.H.U.D. II: Bud the C.H.U.D. (1989), The Little Mermaid (1989), Child’s Play 2 (1990), This Boy’s Life (1993), and My Girl 2 (1994), among others.
Watch on Deadline
Graham also made numerous television appearances, showing up in episodes of Dynasty, Starsky & Hutch, Laverne & Shirley, The A-Team, The Dukes of Hazzard, The Twilight Zone, St. Elsewhere, Miami Vice, Dallas, Tales from the Crypt, The Wonder Years, Seinfeld, Family Matters, Babylon 5, Law & Order, and many more.
In addition to acting, Graham was also a talented writer, having penned two episodes of The Twilight Zone and collaborated on songs with Bob Weir of the Grateful Dead.
