Robert Quarry passed away on Friday night. He was an actor whose
career had spanned more than six decades. He was 83 years old.
Robert starred in many films, some good and some bad. His career
launched with a bit part in Hitchcock's "Shadow of a Doubt (1943)."
Over time, Robert moved into horror films, where he often played the
main villain. The most famous would have to be "Count Yorga, Vampire
(1970)", where Robert was the evil Count himself!
I appreciate that many people do not know his name, since he never
acquired the level of fame as other horror actors like Vincent
Price, Christopher Lee, or Peter Cushing.
In point of fact, Robert Quarry was set to replace his friend
Vincent Price as the major horror icon at AIP by the mid 1970s.
Unfortunately, some severe personal and financial setbacks got in
the way.
His career derailed, Robert withdrew and lived as a recluse in the
San Fernando Valley for most of the 1980s.
After a while, Robert was rediscovered by admiring fans and a career
of sorts was launched yet again. Well, he was given roles in B
Movies like "Beverly Hills Vamp". A lot of fun to make, but not a
very much profit.
I met Robert Quarry on several occasions over the last decade, at
the usual place: horror conventions. He was friendly, and a
wonderful raconteur. His memory was truly amazing. He always knew
who I was, and we could pick up the conversation where it had been
left off the last time.
The last movie Robert was working on is due to be released this very
year. It is called "The Tell-Tale Heart" and also stars the well-
known female horror actress, Ingrid Pitt.
Robert had many interests besides horror movies. As a gourmet chef,
he published a few cookbooks over the years as well. (Now there is
something you can sink your teeth into!)
In 2008, Robert moved from his own apartment into an actor's home
where he could receive daily care. His health was at this point in
serious decline. His family was at his side when he passed away.
Here is a link with details on his career, if you are interested:
http://fangoriaonline.com/home/news/15-rip/1448-rip-robert-
quarry.html
Received on 2009-02-23 16:32:23