Lanny Flaherty obit

Pontotoc actor Lanny Flaherty, 81, has died

 He was not on the list.

When the news broke, it felt like an unexpected cut in a well-edited film—the kind that leaves you gasping, caught off-guard. Lanny Flaherty, the seasoned actor whose portrayal of Big Al in the 1993 cult classic Blood In, Blood Out made him a memorable presence, has left the stage for the final time. At 81, following surgery in New York City, the city that had become his home, Flaherty's passing marks the end of an era for those who knew him and for fans of his extensive body of work.

The Man Behind Big Al

Flaherty, a native of Troy who completed his education in Pontotoc High School, Mississippi, was more than just a character actor; he was a chameleon on screen. His journey from the South to the heart of New York City's bustling acting scene is a testament to his dedication and passion for the craft. While Big Al remains one of his most celebrated roles, Flaherty's career spanned decades, offering a variety of characters that showcased his range and ability to steal any scene he was part of. His legacy, enriched by the diverse roles he embraced, leaves an indelible mark on the entertainment industry.

A Legacy of Versatility

The outpouring of condolences and tributes from fans and industry peers alike underscores the impact Flaherty had on those around him. Known for his ability to delve deep into any character, Flaherty's dedication to his craft was evident in the meticulous preparation he put into each role. From stage to screen, his performances were a masterclass in acting, imbued with a genuine human touch that resonated with audiences. It wasn't just the breadth of characters he portrayed but the depth he brought to them that made Flaherty a beloved figure in the acting community.

Remembering a Remarkable Talent

As plans for his cremation proceed, with details of any memorial services to be announced, the entertainment world pauses to reflect on the loss of a truly remarkable talent. Lanny Flaherty's departure leaves a void that will be deeply felt by those who had the pleasure of knowing him and by fans who admired his work from afar. In remembering Flaherty, we celebrate not just the roles he played but the profound impact he had on the art of storytelling. His legacy, like his performances, will continue to inspire and influence future generations of actors.

 

Film

Year     Title            Role            Notes

1989    Winter People  Gudger Wright 

1990    Miller's Crossing            Terry   

1991    The Ballad of the Sad Café            Merlie Ryan   

1993            Sommersby      Buck   

1993    Blood In Blood Out            Big Al  

1994    Natural Born Killers            Earl     

1995            Someone Else's America            Guide  

1995            Waterworld   Trader 

1995    Tom and Huck            Emmett

1997    A Simple Wish            Duane 

1998    Home Fries     Red Jackson           

2000    Double Parked Louie   

2000    Maze            Drunk  

2000    Book of Shadows: Blair Witch 2            Sheriff Cravens           

2002    Signs            Mr. Nathan

2010    Forged            Tom    

2010    All Good Things            Rooming House Landlord         

2012    Men in Black 3            Obadiah Price 

2014    Cold in July      Jack Crow  

 

Television

Year     Title            Role            Notes

1984    The Edge of Night            Sheriff Mungard            Episode #1.7213

1986    The Equalizer            Policeman #2            Episode: "The Cup"

1988    The Dirty Dozen: The Fatal Mission            Sgt. Butts            Episode: "Danko's Dozen"

1988    The Days and Nights of Molly Dodd   Guard            Episode: "Here's a Reason to Keep Your Goats in the Barn"

1988    Home at Last  Slater            Television film

1989            Lonesome Dove            Soupy Jones    4 episodes

1989    The Cosby Show            George            Episode: "The Day the Spores Landed"

1991            Mathnet            Kaboom Pickens            Episode: "The Case of the Calpurnian Kugel Caper"

1995    New York News            Techie            Episode: "You Thought the Pope Was Something"

1999, 2000            Third Watch  Wink / Drunk #1            2 episodes

2000            Homicide: The Movie            Homeless Man            Television film

2001, 2002            The Education of Max Bickford            Whammo       2 episodes

2005    The Exonerated            Southern Cop #1            Television film

2009    White Collar   Motel Clerk            Episode: "Pilot"

2013    Alpha House  Man #2            Episode: "Zingers"

2020    Little America            Cowboy Hat Customer            Episode: "The Cowboy"