Rarely does a character actor, in that unsung profession, achieve the renown they deserve during their lifetime. Harry Dean Stanton had such talent, longevity, and perseverance that it was impossible to ignore him. Our memorial piece said a lot, but watching him can scratch an otherwise unreachable itch.
Philip Brubaker created a moving tribute to the actor, who passed on Friday the 15th at age 91, to celebrate the life and roles of a man with an unforgettable face. Almost 200 film and TV roles added depth and texture to their stories, and Stanton’s presence was always felt emotionally (and often musically).
Mourning his passing is made less painful when looking back over his long and impactful life.