Al McBean obit

Former Pirates Pitcher Al McBean Dies in Native Virgin Islands

 

He was not on the list.

Photographer-turned-pitcher Al McBean has died. The former Pittsburgh Pirates right-hander was 85.

McBean died in his native Virgin Islands. No case of death was given.

McBean pitched for the Pirates from 1961-68 then again in 1970. He also spent time with the San Diego Padres (1969) and Los Angeles Dodgers (1969-70), finishing with a 67-50 record, 63 saves and a 3.13 ERA in 409 games, including 76 starts, over 10 seasons.

McBean finished in the top 10 in the National League in games pitched for three straight seasons from 1963-65.

The Pirates signed McBean out of a tryout camp in St. Thomas in 1957. He went to the camp to take photographs for a local newspaper and was convinced by some friends to take part in the tryout in front of scouts.

McBean made his major league debut on July 2, 1961 in the first game of a doubleheader against the San Francisco Giants at Forbes Field. Entered a tied game, the first batter he faced, Ed Bailey, reached on an error by second baseman Bill Mazeroski. A double, wild pitch & single later, the Giants had plated two runs. A four run eighth inning by the Pirates spared McBean from taking the loss in his major league debut.

In his next 6 appearances, McBean pitched 10.2 innings without surrendering a run, and earning the first two wins of his career. His first career start also came against the Giants on September 11. He allowed three earned runs over nine innings, and left with the game tied for the no-decision. For the season, he went 3-2 with a 3.75 ERA & 49 strikeouts.

McBean was converted into a full-time starting pitcher in 1962, and won his first three decisions. He finished with a 15-10 record & 3.70 ERA over the full season.

McBean was 2-1 with a 3.46 ERA when he was converted into a reliever in May 1963. He was dominant in that role, going 11-2 with a 2.12 ERA and earning eleven saves out of the bullpen. After the season, he joined Roberto Clemente's National League Latino All-stars for a game at the Polo Grounds on October 12. McBean followed Juan Marichal's four scoreless innings pitched with four scoreless of his own, and drove in a run with a sixth inning triple to lead the NL to a 5-2 victory.

McBean was even more dominant in 1964. Following a June 27 victory over the Cincinnati Reds, McBean was 3-0 with an 0.69 ERA & eight saves. He earned 21 saves over the season, which was good enough for second place in the NL (to the Houston Colt .45s' Hal Woodeshick). Coupled with his 8-3 record, he was named The Sporting News' NL Fireman of the Year. He was again one of the NL's top relievers in 1965, going 6-6 with a 2.29 ERA & 19 saves.

With Roy Face returning in 1966 from an injury plagued 1965 season, he resumed the closer role. Meanwhile, manager Harry Walker relegated McBean to mop up duty. He appeared in 32 of the Pirates' 70 losses; the Pirates were 15-32 in games he appeared.

McBean was the 50th player selected in the 1968 Major League Baseball expansion draft by the San Diego Padres. He made just one appearance with the Padres before being dealt to the Los Angeles Dodgers for shortstop Tommy Dean & pitcher Leon Everitt. Again a reliever, McBean went 2-6 with a 3.91 ERA & four saves out of the Dodgers' bullpen. After just one inning pitched with the Dodgers in 1970, McBean was released, and he returned to Pittsburgh. He would make seven appearances, all in relief, before his May 18 release. He would pitch in the Philadelphia Phillies' system into the 1971 season before retiring.

Isabelle Thomas obit

Isabelle Thomas, Filmmaker and Wife of ‘Killers of the Flower Moon’ Producer Bradley Thomas, Dies at 39

She was found dead at a Los Angeles hotel this week.

 She was not on the list.

Isabelle Thomas, British documentary filmmaker and the wife of Oscar-nominated Killers of the Flower Moon producer Bradley Thomas, was found dead at a Los Angeles hotel this week, medical records show. Thomas was 39.

Isabelle Thomas died by suicide and was discovered with “multiple traumatic injuries” at a local hotel, according to online records from the Los Angeles County Medical Examiner’s Office. Citing law enforcement sources, TMZ reported this week that on Monday, Thomas had lept from a high-up floor at the Hotel Angeleno; the 17-floor Westwood hotel is notable for the balconies that wrap around the building on each floor.

Police sources reportedly indicated that she was discovered dead at the scene when first responders arrived.

“Isabelle was the light of our lives,” said the family in a statement to the L.A. Times. “She was courageous and took all life’s opportunities without fear, showering love and kindness on her friends, family, and children along the way. Her projects were as diverse as her passions, reflecting a curiosity about people and our culture that inspired everyone lucky enough to spend time with her. We remember her as a soulmate, beautiful daughter, sister, devoted mother and wife.”

The British producer, also known as “Izzy,” is from the Cotswolds in the U.K and resided in California with her husband and their two children. According to her website, she graduated from Oxford University and went on to advise on projects for international entertainment companies, private family offices, global membership spaces, start-ups, the UN and The World Bank.

Isabelle married Bradley Thomas, a producer of major films for decades, in 2018. The couple was spotted at red carpet events around town while his career flourished as a producer on Clint Eastwood’s The Mule in 2018 and 2022’s Palme d’Or-winning satire Triangle of Sadness. The two were photographed together as recently as Jan. 13 at the 2024 BAFTA Tea Party at The Maybourne Beverly Hills.

Isabelle Thomas’ death comes as her husband is in the height of award season as he promotes Killers, which, alongside fellow producers Dan Friedkin, Bradley Thomas, Martin Scorsese and Daniel Lupi, is up for the 2024 Oscars best picture trophy.

Bradley Thomas’ producing career began with the Farrelly brothers’ hit 1994 comedy Dumb and Dumber and has not lost momentum over 30 years. He produced several of the duo’s subsequent comedies, including There’s Something About Mary and Shallow Hal, then later teamed up with legendary filmmaker Ridley Scott for All the Money in the World and Swedish filmmaker Ruben Östlund as EP on the biting satires that followed his debut, Force Majure.

Joe Madison obit

RADIO REMEMBERS JOE MADISON

 

He was not on the list.

Radio Hall of Famer Joe ‘The Black Eagle’ Madison has died at the age of 74 following a bout with prostate cancer.

Madison began his career as an activist and then National Political Director with the NAACP by the age of 24. His radio career began in 1980 at 1270 WXYZ Detroit, and would later host at 96.5 WWDB-FM Philadelphia and then a long run at 980 WWRC Washington DC until its demise in early 1998. He moved to Radio One’s 1450 WOL Washington as Program Director and afternoon host that summer and would later be syndicated on the company’s network and on the channel they programmed for XM. In 2013, he moved exclusively to SiriusXM to host mornings on their “Urban View” channel. Madison was inducted into the National Radio Hall of Fame in 2019.

The Madison family released the following statement:

It is with a heavy heart that we announce the passing of our beloved husband and father, Joe Madison. He passed away peacefully at home surrounded by family. Joe dedicated his life to fighting for all those who are undervalued, underestimated, and marginalized. On air he often posed the question, “What are you going to do about it?”. Although he is no longer with us, we hope you will join us in answering that call by continuing to be proactive in the fight against injustice. The outpouring of prayers and support over the last few months lifted Joe’s spirits and strengthened us as a family. We continue to ask for privacy as we gather together to support each other through this difficult time.

Condolences can be sent to the family at joemadison.com.

Terry Beasley obit

Terry Beasley, Auburn’s record-setting receiver, dead at 73

 

He was not on the list.

Legendary Auburn wide receiver and College Football Hall of Fame member Terry Beasley died at his Moody home Wednesday evening, AL.com’s Carol Robinson confirmed with St. Clair County Coroner Dennis Russell.

Beasley’s death is currently being investigated as a possible suicide, according to Moody Police Chief Reece Smith.

“Officers were dispatched to his residence around 5:20pm tonight. He was found deceased inside the residence from an apparent self-inflicted gunshot wound. This case is still under investigation and our thoughts are with the Beasley family at this time,” Smith added.

Beasley was 73.

Beasley was born in Montgomery and played at Auburn from 1969 to 1971 alongside Heisman trophy-winning quarterback Pat Sullivan. Beasley was drafted in the first round of the 1972 NFL Draft and played from 1972-1975 with the San Francisco 49ers.

Paired with Sullivan, Beasley made up one half of “one of college football’s greatest pass combinations,” the National Football Foundation writes of Beasley, who was inducted into the National Football Foundation’s Hall of Fame in 2002.

As a freshman in 1969, Beasley hauled in 34 receptions for 610 yards and six touchdowns. Come his sophomore year, Beasley established himself as Auburn’s leading receiver, catching 52 receptions for 1,051 yards and 11 scores.

“He was way ahead of his time,” Sullivan once said of Beasley. “He was as fast as anyone playing the game. But the thing that really set him apart was that he was awfully, awfully, strong.”

In 1971, the same year Sullivan won the Heisman, Beasley put together a season that saw him log 55 receptions for 846 yards and 12 touchdowns. Bumper stickers reading “Super Sully and Terry Terrific” made their way onto countless cars in the Auburn area, supporting the offensive duo that helped the Tigers finish 9-2 that season.

During his time on The Plains, Beasley generated a lengthy list of accolades, which included being a two-time All-Conference selection and a consensus All-American in 1971.

To this day, Beasley still holds countless program records at Auburn, including career receiving yards (2,507), most touchdown receptions (29), consecutive games with a touchdown catch (8) and most 100-yard games in a season (6) and career (12).

Beasley is one of three Auburn players to have their number retired by the team, along with Sullivan and Bo Jackson. He was elected into the College Football Hall of Fame in 2002.

Beasley was selected in the first round of the 1972 NFL Draft by the San Francisco 49ers, with whom he spent the duration of his short professional career before injuries forced his retirement following the 1975 season.

Beasley’s successful three seasons at Auburn came after he spent his high school years playing for then-Robert E. Lee High School in Montgomery.

Throughout his playing career, Beasley is believed to have suffered at least 19 concussions, which cut his professional career short.

In 2013, Beasley spent the better part of a month in an intensive care unit due to health problems Beasley’s family believed were linked to the concussions he suffered during his playing career.

“Beasley has chronic traumatic encephalopathy, the same disease former NFL linebacker Junior Seau and many other pro football players suffered,” Ryan Wood of the Opelia-Auburn News wrote in a 2013 article. “Doctors told him his brain looks like Swiss cheese. Each concussion punctured a hole.”

Beasley was married to Marlene Beasley, who appeared with Beasley and dozens of other of players as plaintiffs in a lawsuit against the NFL which noted he suffered “multiple past traumatic brain injuries with symptoms including but not limited to, memory loss, headaches, anxiety and sleeplessness,” in court filings.

As a result of the lawsuit, a comprehensive settlement agreement was reached in 2016.

“Without admitting wrongdoing, the NFL agreed to an uncapped compensation fund that would potentially cover over 20,000 retired players in exchange for a release of all concussion-related claims against the league. At the time, it was predicted that the NFL’s outlay would ultimately exceed $1 billion,” Jodi Balsam of Law in Sport wrote in 2021.

Melinda Ledbetter Wilson obit

Beach Boys' Brian Wilson Announces Death of 'Savior' Wife Melinda: 'She Was My Anchor'

Brian Wilson married Melinda Ledbetter in 1995, and the pair were parents to five children 

She was not on the list.

Melinda Ledbetter Wilson, the wife of Beach Boys legend Brian Wilson for nearly three decades, has died. She was 77.

The musician, 81, announced Melinda’s death in an Instagram post on Tuesday, saying his “heart is broken” at the loss of his “beloved wife.”

“Our five children and I are just in tears. We are lost,” he captioned a set of throwback shots of Melinda. “Melinda was more than my wife. She was my savior. She gave me the emotional security I needed to have a career. She encouraged me to make the music that was closest to my heart. She was my anchor. She was everything for us. Please say a prayer for her. Love and Mercy Brian.”

The post also included a message from the pair’s children, who said she died peacefully at home on Tuesday morning.

“She was a force of nature and one of the strongest women you could come by. She was not only a model, our father’s savior, and a mother, she was a woman empowered by her spirit with a mission to better everyone she touched,” they wrote. “We will miss her but cherish everything she has taught us. How to take care of the person next to you with out expecting anything in return, how to find beauty in the darkest of places, and how to live life as your truest self with honesty and pride. We love you mom. Give Grandma Rose and Pa our love.”

Wilson married Melinda in 1995, and the couple adopted children Dakota Rose, Daria Rose, Delanie Rose, Dylan and Dash. They first met when she sold him a Cadillac in 1986, and they dated on and off for three years. In 1992, the "God Only Knows" singer and his future bride bumped into each other once more in Los Angeles and rekindled their romance.

“I’ve never had a relationship with a girl like we have,” Wilson told PEOPLE in 1998. “She’s a partner who’s also a best friend.”

Melinda, meanwhile, praised her husband’s “vulnerability,” saying he was “probably the most sane person I know,” but struggled to “deal with the world’s insanity.”

In 2014, their life together got the biopic treatment with Love & Mercy, which starred John Cusack and Elizabeth Banks as Brian and Melinda. The film gave viewers a deep dive on Wilson’s struggles with mental illness, and chronicled his complicated relationship with his therapist and legal guardian Dr. Eugene Landy.

It was Melinda who helped free Wilson from Landy's grips, and in 1991, his brother, mother and daughters sued Landy, arguing he'd exerted "undue influence" over Wilson's life. Their suit was successful, and Landy was barred from contacting his famous client in 1992.

“I didn't know how tough it would be,” Melinda told ABC News of the film in 2015. “I think I was more nervous than him when I took him to see it, and after, I said, ‘So what did you think?’ And he goes, ‘Oh, it was really a lot worse in real life.’”

Banks, who played Melinda in the film, told the outlet that she was given some sage advice by the woman she portrayed: “She said to me, ‘Music is his first love. Nothing can replace it. It's his being, it's his essence, it's his everything, So I'm settling for second, but it's a pretty good — it's a pretty good second.”

Chita Rivera obit

Broadway Icon Chita Rivera Dies at 91

Rivera passed away after a brief illness. 

She was not on the list.

Broadway legend Chita Rivera has died at the age of 91.

Rivera died peacefully on January 30 after a brief illness, according to daughter Lisa Mordente and publicist Merle Frimark.

Born Dolores Conchita Figueroa del Rivero in Washington, DC on January 23, 1933, Rivera trained as a ballerina from the age of nine, receiving a scholarship to the School of American Ballet. Her first major role, at the age of 19, was as a principal dancer in Call Me Madam. Her career was dotted with legendary original productions: Guys and Dolls and Can-Can, among them. Her performance as Anita in West Side Story made her a star, and she cemented her reputation as the original Rosie in Bye Bye Birdie and Velma in Chicago. She was a two-time Tony winner for The Rink and Kiss of the Spider Woman, as well as the recipient of a a Lifetime Achievement Tony Award in 2018.

Among Rivera’s other Broadway roles are Lilliane in Nine opposite Antonio Banderas; Princess Puffer in The Mystery of Edwin Drood; herself in her biographical musical The Dancer’s Life; and Claire Zachannassian in The Visit, which marked her final Broadway appearance in 2015. She earned 10 Tony nominations over the course of her career.

Rivera was awarded a Kennedy Center Honor, the Presidential Medal of Freedom presented by President Barack Obama, and Living Landmark status from the New York Landmarks Concervancy. She toured throughout the world as a cabaret performer, playing sold-out shows at venues ranging from Carnegie Hall to Cadogan Hall. Her career retrospective concert Chita Rivera: A lot of Livin’ to Do was presented on PBS’s Great Performances, and her memoir, Chita, was published by HarperOne in April 2023.

In addition to Mordente, she is survived by siblings Julio, Armando, and Lola del Rivero, along with many nieces and nephews. She is predeceased by her parents and older sister, Carmen.

Rivera received numerous accolades including two Tony Awards, two Drama Desk Awards, and a Drama League Award. She was the first Latina and the first Latino American to receive a Kennedy Center Honor in 2002, and the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 2009. She won the Tony Award for Lifetime Achievement in 2018.

After making her Broadway debut as a dancer in Guys and Dolls (1950), she went on to originate roles in Broadway musicals such as Anita in West Side Story (1957), Velma Kelly in Chicago (1975), and the title role in Kiss of the Spider Woman (1993). She was a ten-time Tony Award nominee, winning the Tony Award for Best Actress in a Musical twice for her roles in The Rink (1984) and Kiss of the Spider Woman (1993). She was Tony-nominated for her roles in Bye Bye Birdie (1961), Chicago (1975), Merlin (1983), Jerry's Girls (1986), Nine (2003), and The Visit (2015).

Rivera acted in the film Sweet Charity (1969) and appeared in Sgt. Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Band (1978), and Tick, Tick... Boom! (2021). She played Connie Richardson in the CBS sitcom The New Dick Van Dyke Show (1973–1974). She also appeared on television in The Judy Garland Show (1963), The Carol Burnett Show (1971), and Will & Grace (2005). Her autobiography, Chita: A Memoir, was published in 2023.

Dolores Conchita Figueroa del Rivero Anderson was born in Washington, D.C. on January 23, 1933, the daughter of Katherine (Anderson), a government clerk, and Pedro Julio Figueroa del Rivero, a clarinetist and saxophonist for the U.S. Navy Band. Her father was Puerto Rican and her mother was of Scottish, Irish, and African-American descent. Rivera was one of five children. Rivera was seven years old when her mother was widowed and went to work at The Pentagon.

 

Acting credits

Film

Year     Title            Role            Notes

1969    Sweet Charity Nickie 

1978    Sgt. Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Band            Guest at Heartland     

1983    He Makes Me Feel Like Dancin' Herself            Documentary

2002            Chicago          Nickie            Cameo

2003            Broadway: The Golden Age, by the Legends Who Were There   Herself            Documentary

2006            Kalamazoo?            Giannina         

2010    The Drawn Together Movie: The Movie! Singer            Voice

2012    Carol Channing: Larger Than Life      Herself            Documentary

Show Stopper: The Theatrical Life of Garth Drabinsky            Herself            Documentary

Ben Vereen: Last of the Showmen            Herself            Documentary

Move   Herself            Documentary

2018    Still Waiting in the Wings            Broadway Diva            Documentary

2021    Tick, Tick... Boom!            "Sunday" Legend        

Television

Year     Title            Role            Notes

1956    The Maurice Chevalier Show            Herself            1 episode

1960    The Gary Moore Show   Herself            1 episode

1963    The Judy Garland Show   Herself            Episode 17

1964    The Outer Limits            Mrs. Dame            Episode: "The Bellero Shield"

1965    The Hollywood Palace  Herself            1 episode

1971    The Carol Burnett Show   Various characters            Episode: "4.22"

1973    The Marcus-Nelson Murders            Josie Hopper            Television film

1973–1974            The New Dick Van Dyke Show            Connie Richardson            Main role; 7 episodes

1977    Once Upon a Brothers Grimm            Gingerbread Lady            Episode: "Hansel and Gretel"

1981    Pippin: His Life and Times            Fastrada            Television film

1982    One Life to Live            Melody Rambo            Recurring role

Strawberry Ice            Performer            Television film

1987            Mayflower Madam            Risa Dickstein            Television film

1997    Happily Ever After: Fairy Tales for Every Child            Katy            Voice, episode: "Thumbelina"

2004, 2019            Dora The Explorer            The Witch   Voice, 2 episodes

2005    Will & Grace   Lenore Portillo            Episode: "Dance Cards and Greeting Cards"

2008    Johnny and the Sprites            The Queen            Episode: "Johnny Not Invited"

2011            Submissions Only            Gladys Franklin            Episode: "Yore So Bad"

Theatre (selected)

Year     Title            Role            Venue            Ref.

1950    Guys and Dolls            Dancer (replacement)            46th Street Theatre  

1953    Can-Can      Dancer            Shubert Theatre

1955    Seventh Heaven Fifi            ANTA Playhouse        

1956    Mr. Wonderful            Rita Romano            Broadway Theatre    

1957            Shinbone Alley            Mehitabel       

West Side Story    Anita            Winter Garden Theatre           

1960    Bye Bye Birdie            Rose Alvarez Martin Beck Theatre   

1964    Bajour            Anyanka          Shubert Theatre

1975            Chicago          Velma Kelly    46th Street Theatre  

1981    Bring Back Birdie            Rose Alvarez Martin Beck Theatre   

1983    Merlin            The Queen  Mark Hellinger Theatre

1984    The Rink     Anna            Martin Beck Theatre   

1985    Jerry's Girls            Performer      St. James Theatre 

1993    Kiss of the Spider Woman            Spider Woman/Aurora            Broadhurst Theatre     

2003    Nine            Liliane La Fleur            Eugene O'Neill Theatre

2005    Chita Rivera: The Dancer's Life            Herself            Gerald Schoenfeld Theatre

2012    The Mystery of Edwin Drood            The Princess Puffer / Miss Angela Prysock            Studio 54       

2015    The Visit     Claire Zachannassian            Lyceum Theatre

Jean Carnahan obit

 

Jean Carnahan, first Missouri woman to serve in the U.S. Senate, dies at 90

She was not on the list.

Carnahan was named to the U.S. Senate in 2000 after her husband, former Missouri Gov. Mel Carnahan, was killed in a small plane crash and was elected posthumously. Carnahan served for two years before losing the election for the full term.

Former Missouri U.S. Sen. Jean Carnahan, who was the state’s first woman to serve in the Senate and the widow of the late Gov. Mel Carnahan, died Tuesday. She was 90.

She sought to be a conciliatory figure, lamenting in late 2000 the political divisiveness that already was rising around the country.

Before heading to Washington, she observed in an interview that “the whole idea of duking it out in the public arena and seeing who’s the last person standing – that atmosphere is what has brought us the problems we have now.”

Carnahan is the matriarch of one of Missouri’s most well-known Democratic families. A son, Russ Carnahan, is a former member of the U.S. House and currently heads the Missouri Democratic Party. Her daughter, Robin Carnahan, served eight years as Missouri secretary of state and is now administrator of the General Services Administration in Washington.

Jean Carnahan resided largely in Clayton since she left office after she was defeated in a 2002 bid to fill the final four years of her late husband’s Senate term. She has written a number of books.

Carnahan was thrust into the national spotlight on Oct. 16, 2000, after then-Gov. Mel Carnahan was killed in a small plane crash in Jefferson County while campaigning for the Senate seat held by Republican John Ashcroft.

The plane’s pilot was the Carnahans’ eldest son, Randy. Also on board was the governor’s top aide, Chris Sifford. Both died in the crash.

Then-Lt. Gov. Roger Wilson, who was sworn in as the state’s new governor within hours after the crash, announced a few days later that he would appoint Jean Carnahan to her late husband’s Senate post should he win posthumously. By law, Mel Carnahan’s name remained on the ballot.

Some Missouri Republican officials loudly objected to Wilson’s plan, but Mel Carnahan went on to defeat Ashcroft. He remains the nation’s only Senate candidate to win a seat after his death.

Jean Carnahan’s Senate appointment was for two years. During that time, she focused on improving public education, supporting Social Security, and adding prescription drug benefits to Medicare.

She also championed three of her husband’s causes: campaign finance reform, abortion rights and some gun restrictions, such as limiting minors’ access to automatic weapons.

While in Washington, she carved her own bipartisan path, while also sharing her late husband’s political vision.

On a weekend in early September 2001, she was at the family’s rural home in Rolla when a fire broke out. She managed to rescue her husband’s formal portrait before the flames destroyed much of the house.

In 2002, she narrowly lost to Republican Jim Talent, who served the remaining four years of her late husband’s term.

In a St. Louis Public Radio interview in 2004, she observed that Democrats “are often fragmented. There’s just so many different parts of us.”

Later, in her best-known book – “Don’t Let the Fire Go Out” – she reflected on her life, including the challenges and tragedies.

“For most of us, life is more conquest than victory,’’ she wrote. “Life is about squandering ourselves for a good and godly purpose. Mostly, it’s about stoking the fire.”

She was born in Washington D.C. and met her future husband in high school; his family resided in Washington while his father was in Congress.

She graduated from George Washington University, and married Mel Carnahan in 1954.

The couple moved to his home state of Missouri. He was a lawyer and was active in local and state politics for decades with his wife often by his side. They had four children.

Born Jean Anne Carpenter in Washington, D.C., to a working-class family, Carnahan was determined to go to college. She and her future husband, Mel, both went to Anacostia High School, where they sat next to each other in class. Jean worked through the year while attending George Washington University. She graduated in 1955 with a degree in Business and Public Administration, the first in her family to graduate from high school and college. She was an alumna of Kappa Delta sorority.

Jean and Mel married on June 12, 1954. Two years later, they moved to his home state of Missouri. They settled in Rolla, where Mel opened a law practice, in 1959.

Carnahan's survivors include: daughter Robin, sons Russ and Tom, and several grandchildren.

Funeral arrangements are pending.

Richard Howard obit

Theatre actor Richard Howard dies aged 79

 

He was not on the list.

Theatre actor Richard Howard has died aged 79, his agent has announced.

He was a star of Olivier-nominated productions including as Sir Robert de Lesseps in the original cast of historical fiction Shakespeare In Love – an adaption of the 1998 film – at the Noel Coward Theatre.

Howard also taught at the Bristol Old Vic Theatre School and the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art (Rada).

A statement from Scott Marshall Partners said: “It is with great sadness that we announce the death of our beloved client, Richard Howard, at the age of 79, after a short illness.

“He is survived by his son, three stepdaughters and nine grandchildren.”

His other theatre work included tours of William Shakespeare’s Twelfth Night, Macbeth and Romeo And Juliet across America, Europe and Asia.

Howard was also in Stanley at the National Theatre, which was about the life of painter Sir Stanley Spencer and won an Olivier for best new play in 1997, and a Kiln Theatre adaption of James Baldwin’s play about racial oppression in the US called Blues For Mr Charlie.

He was part of the Stables Theatre Club in Manchester, and Brian Friel and Stephen Rea’s theatre company Field Day.

“Howard acted and directed with the Jill Freud Theatre Company for many seasons, and was a member of the London Shakespeare Group,” his agent said.

Howard also appeared in an episode of Poirot, titled Four And Twenty Blackbirds, and BBC Radio 4 play The People’s Princess about George IV’s wife Caroline of Brunswick.

Actor

Daydreams and Fairytales

7.9

Short

PC Davies

2010

 

The Invisibles (2008)

The Invisibles

7.0

TV Mini Series

Dr. Faulkner

2008

1 episode

 

Mark Rylance in The Government Inspector (2005)

The Government Inspector

7.5

TV Movie

Donald Anderson (uncredited)

2005

 

Born and Bred (2002)

Born and Bred

7.5

TV Series

Freddie McClintock

2003

1 episode

 

Megan Dodds in Love in a Cold Climate (2001)

Love in a Cold Climate

7.0

TV Mini Series

Lawyer

2001

 

David Copperfield (1999)

David Copperfield

7.7

TV Mini Series

Doctor

1999

1 episode

 

Oliver Twist (1999)

Oliver Twist

7.7

TV Mini Series

Dr. Critchley

1999

1 episode

 

Sean Arnold, Philip Martin Brown, Kate Buffery, and George Irving in Wing and a Prayer (1997)

Wing and a Prayer

6.7

TV Series

George Martin

1999

1 episode

 

Playing the Field (1998)

Playing the Field

7.4

TV Series

Father Thomas

1998

2 episodes

 

McLibel! (1997)

McLibel!

8.2

TV Mini Series

Dr. Richard North

1997

1 episode

 

Call Red (1996)

Call Red

4.3

TV Series

Hartman

1996

1 episode

 

Colin Blumenau, Nula Conwell, Peter Ellis, Trudie Goodwin, Jon Iles, Gary Olsen, Eric Richard, John Salthouse, Tony Scannell, Jeff Stewart, Mark Wingett, and Delia Swan in The Bill (1984)

The Bill

6.7

TV Series

Davies

Dr. McDade

Mr. Austen

1991–1996

3 episodes

 

Richard Griffiths in Pie in the Sky (1994)

Pie in the Sky

7.7

TV Series

MC at Theatre

1995

1 episode

 

John Thaw in Kavanagh QC (1995)

Kavanagh QC

7.7

TV Series

Dr. Stephen Grindlay

1995

1 episode

 

Ian Richardson and Kitty Aldridge in To Play the King (1993)

To Play the King

8.3

TV Mini Series

John Sarkey

1993

1 episode

 

Ian McShane in Lovejoy (1986)

Lovejoy

7.8

TV Series

Haynes

1993

1 episode

 

Tony Doyle, Tom Georgeson, Neil Pearson, and Siobhan Redmond in Between the Lines (1992)

Between the Lines

8.1

TV Series

Inspector Carter

1992

1 episode

 

Barry Foster in Van der Valk (1972)

Van der Valk

7.1

TV Series

Pathologist

1991

1 episode

 

Ned Beatty, Peter Boyle, and Vincent Gardenia in The Tragedy of Flight 103: The Inside Story (1990)

The Tragedy of Flight 103: The Inside Story

6.5

TV Movie

Berndt Meyer

1990

 

This Is David Harper

6.6

TV Series

Vicar

1990

1 episode

 

Drop the Dead Donkey (1990)

Drop the Dead Donkey

8.0

TV Series

Vicar

1990

1 episode

 

TECX

7.9

TV Series

Etienne

1990

1 episode

 

4 Play (1989)

4 Play

7.3

TV Series

Detective

1990

1 episode

 

Casualty (1986)

Casualty

6.1

TV Series

Administrator

1989

1 episode

 

David Suchet in Poirot (1989)

Poirot

8.6

TV Series

George Lorrimer

1989

1 episode

 

Playing for Real (1988)

Playing for Real

8.6

TV Mini Series

Ted Slattery

1988

1 episode

 

Paradise Postponed (1986)

Paradise Postponed

8.0

TV Mini Series

Dennis Kitson

1986

6 episodes

 

Liza Goddard and Nigel Planer in Roll Over Beethoven (1985)

Roll Over Beethoven

6.0

TV Series

Waiter

1985

1 episode

 

Uliisses (1982)

Uliisses

5.7

1982

 

Emmerdale Farm (1972)

Emmerdale Farm

4.8

TV Series

Rev. Bob Jerome

1979–1981

20 episodes

 

Don Henderson, Diane Keen, Peter Sallis, and Don Warrington in Crown Court (1972)

Crown Court

7.3

TV Series

Mr. Tapp

1974

3 episodes

 

ITV Playhouse (1967)

ITV Playhouse

6.9

TV Series

PC Tom Corsby

Mr. Mulcahey

O'Kelly ...

1970

2 episodes

 

ITV Saturday Night Theatre (1969)

ITV Saturday Night Theatre

6.3

TV Series

Robert

1970

1 episode

 

Oh! What a Lovely War (1969)

Oh! What a Lovely War

7.0

Young Soldier at Mons (uncredited)

1969

 

Vendetta (1966)

Vendetta

8.1

TV Series

Police Constable

1966

1 episode

 

The Wednesday Play (1964)

The Wednesday Play

7.5

TV Series

Terry, a milkman

1966

1 episode

 

Sunday Night

TV Series

Photographer

1966

1 episode

Amanda Davies obit

'One Life To Live' Actor Amanda Davies, Daughter Of Soap Opera Legend, Dead At 42

 She was not on the list.

LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA: The entertainment industry is mourning the untimely death of Amanda Davies, a familiar face from the long-running ABC soap opera 'One Life to Live'.

Amanda portrayed the teenage version of her real-life mother Erika Slezak's character, Victoria "Viki" Lord. Her sudden death at the age of 42 has left fans and colleagues in shock.

Erika Slezak, 77, the iconic actress who portrayed Viki for a remarkable decade on the show, confirmed the heartbreaking news on the homepage of her official website. The family has requested privacy during this difficult time, and no details about the cause of Amanda's death have been disclosed.

Amanda Elizabeth Davies was born in 1981 to Erika Slezak and her husband, Brian Davies, a respected actor known for roles in notable films such as 'American Gigolo' (1980), 'Convoy' (1978), and 'The Age of Innocence' (1993).

In the soap opera world, Amanda made significant contributions by portraying her mother's character in flashbacks in 2002 and during the show's brief revival as a web series in 2013. Erika Slezak, a Daytime Emmy Award-winning actress, played Viki on 'One Life To Live' for an illustrious four decades.

This tragic event follows another sorrowful loss within the 'One Life To Live' family. On Christmas Eve, Puerto Rican actor Kamar de los Reyes, known for his role as cop Antonio Vega, died at the age of 56 after a brief battle with cancer.

Amanda Davies leaves behind a grieving family, including her mother, her 85-year-old father Brian Davies, and her 43-year-old brother Michael.

The unexpected tragedy has left the internet in mourning.

As news of Amanda's untimely death circulated, the online community joined in expressing their grief and paying tribute to the late actress. The sentiments shared reflect the shock and sorrow felt by many who admired Amanda's contributions to the entertainment world.

"Gone too soon," remarked one user. Another user noted, "Another 'died suddenly' with no known cause," emphasizing the mystery around the circumstances of the death.

Someone else wrote, "Another one too young."

She appeared on the daytime staple in 2002 during flashback scenes, credited as “Young Viki.” This was Davies’ main foray into acting, though she did appear in a short titled The Gift in 2011.

The daughter of Slezak and actor Brian Davies, known for supporting roles in modern classics American Gigolo and The Age of Innocence, Davies was born in 1981 into something of a performing dynasty. Her grandfather was Tony-winning Viennese character actor Walter Slezak — who also made appearances in One Life to Live — and her great-grandfather was Austrian opera star Leo Slezak.    

Hinton Battle obit

Hinton Battle Dies: Broadway’s Original ‘The Wiz’ Scarecrow Was 67

 

He was not on the list.

Hinton Battle, a three-time Tony Award winning actor who originated the role of Scarecrow in Broadway’s The Wiz, died yesterday. He was 67.

His death was confirmed by his friend, the actor and choreographer Debbie Allen. A cause was not disclosed.

“Today I honor Hinton Battle, my dear friend who left us to dance and sing in God’s Ensemble last night,” Allen wrote on Instagram today. “He fought this battle to live and be creative impacting audiences and young people across the globe. Let us always hold him high in our hearts and in our mind’s eye and forever speak his name.”

Launching his Broadway career in The Wiz (1975), Battle would go on to appear in such celebrated musicals as Dancin’, Sophisticated Ladies, Dreamgirls, The Tap Dance Kid, Miss Saigon and the longrunning revival of Chicago. He won Tony Awards for Best Featured Actor/Musical for Sophisticated Ladies (1981), The Tap Dance Kid (1983) and Miss Saigon (1991).

Born November 29, 1956, in Germany, Battle studied at the Jones Haywood School of Ballet in Washington, D.C. and the School of American Ballet in New York City. In addition to Broadway, he made numerous TV appearances, including roles in Quantum Leap, Touched By An Angel, Early Edition and Smash.

In perhaps his most memorable TV role, he played the demon Sweet in a 2001 musical episode of Buffy The Vampire Slayer titled “Once More, With Feeling.” Battle also choreographed the episode; other choreography credits include the 65th and 66th Annual Academy Awards (with Debbie Allen), The Trouble With Normal and Sister Sister.

Survivor information was not immediately available.

Actor

Anjelica Huston, Debra Messing, Jack Davenport, Christian Borle, Leslie Odom Jr., Jennifer Hudson, Katharine McPhee, Megan Hilty, Jeremy Jordan, Krysta Rodriguez, and Andy Mientus in Smash (2012)

Smash

7.7

TV Series

Pastor

2012

1 episode

 

Beyoncé, Anika Noni Rose, and Jennifer Hudson in Dreamgirls (2006)

Dreamgirls

6.6

Wayne

2006

 

Sarah Michelle Gellar in Buffy the Vampire Slayer (1997)

Buffy the Vampire Slayer

8.3

TV Series

Sweet

2001

1 episode

 

Roma Downey, John Dye, and Della Reese in Touched by an Angel (1994)

Touched by an Angel

6.0

TV Series

Candy 'the Clown' McCloud

2001

1 episode

 

The Wonderful World of Disney (1997)

The Wonderful World of Disney

7.4

TV Series

Bill Bojangles Robinson

2001

1 episode

 

Elizabeth Taylor, Shirley MacLaine, Joan Collins, and Debbie Reynolds in These Old Broads (2001)

These Old Broads

5.8

TV Movie

Pete

2001

 

The Trouble with Normal (2000)

The Trouble with Normal

6.1

TV Series

Instructor

2000

1 episode

 

Kyle Chandler and Shanesia Davis in Early Edition (1996)

Early Edition

7.6

TV Series

Rev. O.C. Nicks

1999

1 episode

 

David Keith, Matt Craven, Blair Underwood, Lisa Vidal, Matt Beck, Wendy Davis, Aunjanue Ellis-Taylor, Lindsay Frost, Cole Hauser, and Louis Mustillo in High Incident (1996)

High Incident

7.7

TV Series

1996

1 episode

 

Sweet Justice (1994)

Sweet Justice

6.9

TV Series

Brother Will

1995

1 episode

 

Robin Givens and Marco Hofschneider in Foreign Student (1994)

Foreign Student

5.9

Sonny Boy Williamson

1994

 

Scott Bakula and Dean Stockwell in Quantum Leap (1989)

Quantum Leap

8.2

TV Series

Thames

1993

1 episode

 

Beverly D'Angelo, Craig T. Nelson, and Gary Cole in The Switch (1993)

The Switch

6.5

TV Movie

Hildred Shumake

1993

 

Chris Eigeman and Craig Bierko in Red Dwarf (1992)

Red Dwarf

3.9

TV Movie

The Cat

1992

 

The Boys

7.8

TV Movie

Odie

1992

 

Wedding Band (1989)

Wedding Band

3.1

Hawk

1989

 

Daddy's Boys (1988)

Daddy's Boys

4.3

Piano Player

1988

 

Tracey Ullman in The Tracey Ullman Show (1987)

The Tracey Ullman Show

7.1

TV Series

Jerry

1987

1 episode

 

The Alamo: Thirteen Days to Glory (1987)

The Alamo: Thirteen Days to Glory

6.1

TV Movie

Joe - Travis' Servant

1987

 

The Wiz

7.0

Video

Scarecrow

1983

 

A Night on the Town

6.1

TV Movie

1983

 

Sophisticated Ladies (1982)

Sophisticated Ladies

9.0

TV Movie

Performer

1982

 

Additional Crew

Bolden (2019)

Bolden

5.6

orderly

2019

 

Sistas: The Musical (2013)

Sistas: The Musical

9.4

TV Movie

production consultant

2013

 

Louis (2010)

Louis

7.3

choreographer

2010

 

Terrence Howard and Paula Patton in Idlewild (2006)

Idlewild

6.2

choreographer

2006

 

The Wonderful World of Disney (1997)

The Wonderful World of Disney

7.4

TV Series

choreographer

2001

1 episode

 

Sharon Lawrence, Jonathan Banks, Mark Feuerstein, and Leah Remini in Fired Up (1997)

Fired Up

6.5

TV Series

choreographer

1997

1 episode

 

Robin Givens and Marco Hofschneider in Foreign Student (1994)

Foreign Student

5.9

choreographer: Jook Joint

1994

 

The Boys

7.8

TV Movie

associate choreographer

1992

 

Editorial Department

The Boys

7.8

TV Movie

editor: musical numbers

1992

Marie Mansfield obit

 Woman's Baseball Star Marie Mansfield Has Died

She was not on the list.

Visiting hours at the Alfred D. Thomas Funeral Home 326 Granite Ave Milton Friday morning, February 2 from 8:30am to 10am. Funeral Mass at St. Agatha Church, Milton Friday morning at 10:30. Interment will be in Knollwood Memorial Park, Canton Marie M. Kelley, a cherished soul known for her loving heart and passionate spirit, passed away peacefully on January 28, 2024, at the D’youville Nursing Home in Lowell, MA. Born on November 4, 1931, in Boston, MA, to John A. Mansfield and Georgina (Towner), Marie's life was a testament to the joy and resilience that define the human spirit.

 Marie was the beloved wife of the late William Kelley. She was a devoted mother to her daughter, Marie, and her husband, Jack White of Tewksbury, MA. Her role as a grandmother was one she cherished deeply, showering love upon her granddaughter, Elizabeth, and her husband, Carl Caporale of Wilmington, MA. Marie's joy was further multiplied with the birth of her great-granddaughter, Iris Caporale. Her passing is also mourned by many loving nieces, nephews, and a multitude of friends who were touched by her kindness and warmth.

 A proud graduate of her local high school, Marie's work ethic shone brightly throughout her life. She served many years as a dedicated cafeteria server at the Fisher Jr. College in Boston, where she was known for her cheerful demeanor and ability to brighten anyone's day. Her colleagues and the students she served were often greeted with her encouraging smile, making the cafeteria more than just a place to eat but a place to find a friendly face.

 Marie's interests and passions painted the canvas of her life with vibrant colors. Her love for golf was more than a hobby; it was a chapter of her life where she excelled and found great joy. Marie's athletic prowess was showcased when she played in the All-American Girls Professional Baseball League for five years, an experience that later led to her making an appearance in the beloved movie "A League of Their Own." This period of her life was filled with fond memories and lasting friendships.

 An avid walker, Marie believed in the importance of staying active and embracing the simple pleasures of life. She was the heart of her family, always putting them first and ensuring that love was the foundation upon which all else was built. Her special trips to the casino with her sister Joan were filled with laughter and sisterly bonding that only grew stronger with time.

 Marie's "Golf Buddies," a group of friends who shared her passion for the game, will remember her for her competitive yet gracious spirit on the green. These shared moments of camaraderie and friendly competition were cherished times that spoke to Marie's ability to connect with others and celebrate life's joys.

 Described by those who knew her as loving, kind, and passionate, Marie's legacy is one of unwavering positivity and the ability to inspire those around her. She approached each day with a zest for life and an open heart, teaching by example the power of kindness and the importance of nurturing relationships.

 Marie's life journey reminds us all that the roles we play—whether as a family member, a friend, or a colleague—are opportunities to leave a lasting impact on the world. Her memory will live on in the hearts of those she loved and those who loved her. As we bid farewell to Marie M. Kelley, we celebrate a life well-lived, a life filled with purpose, and a heart that was truly one of a kind.

 Born in Jamaica Plain, Massachusetts, Mansfield began playing softball at age 12. She entered the All-American Girls Professional Baseball League in 1950 with the Rockford Peaches, playing for them as a fourth outfielder and at first base. Guided by her manager Bill Allington, she showed promise on the pitcher's mound with her fluid overhand delivery, which the league had converted in 1946. Allington did not hesitate to include her in the Peaches pitching staff.

 In 1951 Mansfield teamed up with Rose Gacioch and Helen Fox to give Rockford a strong one-two-three punch pitching combination in the eight-team circuit. She collected a 16–8 record and a 2.85 earned run average in 30 games, ending fifth in wins, eighth in innings pitched (202), and third in strikeouts (121) behind Jean Faut of the South Bend Blue Sox (135) and Margaret Holgerson of the Grand Rapids Chicks (123). In addition, Gacioch finished 20–7 and Fox went 18–7 to assure a berth in the postseason. In the first round of the best-of-three series, Rockford swept the favored Chicks backed by victories from Fox and Mansfield and the bats of Eleanor Callow and Dorothy Kamenshek. The Peaches won the first two games of the final best-of-five series, but South Bend claimed the championship by winning them three games in a row.

 Mansfield moved to the ill-fated Battle Creek Belles in 1952, as the AAGPBL shifted players as needed to help some teams stay afloat. Nevertheless, she rejoined the Peaches late in the year in time to help the team in the playoffs. She dropped for a combined 3–14 record in the regular season, while Rockford advanced to the finals after sweeping the Fort Wayne Daisies in two games. The 1952 championship series was a repeat of the previous year with the Peaches again facing the Blue Sox. This time Rockford lost to South Bend, three to two games. Faut was the winning pitcher in the decisive Game 5, hitting two triples and driving in two runs while turning in a 6–3 complete game performance.

 In 1953 Mansfield went 10–12 with 143 strikeouts and a 2.82 ERA, tying with Faut for the most strikeouts in the season. Fourth place Rockford faced second place Grand Rapids in the first round of the best-of-three series. Rockford was the winner in Game 1 by a 9–2 score, but Earlene Risinger pitched a 2–0 shutout to lead the Chicks in Game 2, while Dorothy Mueller held off the Peaches on eight hits in the final game, to send Grand Rapids into the finals.

 Mansfield had a 5–8 record in 1954, finishing seventh in ERA (3.27) and ninth in strikeouts, during what turned out to be the league's final season. With five teams in the circuit, the only team not to make it to the postseason was the last place Rockford Peaches.

 In a five-season career, Mansfield collected a 34–42 record and a 3.33 ERA in 92 pitching appearances. She went 1–2 in three postseason games, even though she posted a solid 0.86 ERA in 21 innings of work.

Jimy Williams obit

 

Former Red Sox manager Jimy Williams dies at the age of 80

He was on the list.

BOSTON -- Former Red Sox manager Jimy Williams, known for his fiery demeanor and excellent instruction on the diamond, has died. Williams died Monday at the age of 80.

Williams managed the Red Sox from 1997-2001, guiding the team to a 414-352 record and a pair of playoff berths. Those 414 wins ranks eighth on the franchise's all-time managerial games and wins lists. Williams took over at a time when Boston was still trying to end its historic World Series drought, and brought a little fire back to Red Sox baseball.

As the Red Sox manager from 1997-2001, Jimy Williams was a true staple and leader of the Red Sox.

We send our love to the Willams family. pic.twitter.com/HPRWGw4XqE

— Red Sox (@RedSox) January 29, 2024

He joined the Red Sox after a six-year stint as the third-base coach of the Braves, which saw him win a World Series with Atlanta in 1995. Boston hired Williams in November of 1996 after the team had fired manager Kevin Kennedy.

The Red Sox went 78-84 in Williams' first year on the job, but he got Boston to the playoffs the following year. With Pedro Martinez's arrival giving Boston a true ace at the front of the rotation, the Red Sox went 92-70 and finished second in the AL East. As a Wild Card team, the Sox lost to the Cleveland Indians, 3-1, in the divisional round.

An even better 1999 season followed though, with Martinez putting together one of the best single-season pitching performances in baseball history. Boston went 94-68 and once again claimed a Wild Card berth, earning Williams Manager of the Year honors.

I’ll always be thankful to this man. A great teacher of the game and an even better man. He was my 1st Big League Manager and gave me a chance. That’s all we can ask for. RIP Jimy https://t.co/sSB3CBahVR

— Lou Merloni (@LouMerloni) January 29, 2024

The Red Sox were victorious over Cleveland, 3-2, in the divisional round in the playoffs, but lost to their hated rivals, the New York Yankees, in the American League Championship Series in five games, and they wouldn't play any more playoff games under Williams. The team went 85-77 in 2000 and were 65-53 in 2001 when Dan Duquette decided to make a change at manager.

Williams was fired in August, and the Red Sox went 16-17 under interim manager Joe Kerrigan to miss the playoffs for a second straight season.

Following his time in Boston, Williams went on to manage the Houston Astros for two-plus seasons. He compiled a 215-197 record with the Astros, but was fired after a 44-44 start in 2004. Overall, between his managerial stints for the Toronto Blue Jays, the Red Sox, and the Astros, Williams compiled a 910-790 record in the regular season. The Red Sox were the only team he led to the playoffs, leading Boston to a 5-9 record in the postseason.

He also picked up 33 ejections throughout his career, a dozen of which came during his time in Boston.

After being let go by the Astros, Williams went on to win his second World Series in 2008 as a bench coach for the Philadelphia Phillies.

He was the Blue Jays' manager until the 1989 season, when he was fired May 14 and replaced by Cito Gaston after the team got off to a 12–24 start. Under Gaston, the Blue Jays went 77–49 for the rest of the season and won the American League East title.

MLB statistics

Batting average            .231

Hits      3

Runs batted in            1

Managerial record  910–790

Winning %            .535

Teams

As player

St. Louis Cardinals (1966–1967)

As manager

 

Toronto Blue Jays (1986–1989)

Boston Red Sox (1997–2001)

Houston Astros (2002–2004)

Career highlights and awards

2× World Series champion (1995, 2008)

AL Manager of the Year (1999)