Actor John Saxon Dead at Age 83
Actor John Saxon, whose good looks won him not only legions of female fans but also a wide array of roles, has died at his home in Tennessee. He was 83.
The Hollywood Reported quoted Saxon’s wife, Gloria, as confirming that the actor died of pneumonia on Saturday in Murfreesboro.
He was best known for starring with Bruce Lee in “Enter the Dragon” and appeared in several “Nightmare on Elm Street” movies.
John Saxon, the rugged actor who kicked around with Bruce Lee in ‘Enter the Dragon’ and appeared in three ‘Nightmare on Elm Street’ movies for director Wes Craven, died Saturday https://t.co/AKdD24qmRp
— The Hollywood Reporter (@THR) July 25, 2020
Born Carmine Orrico, the son of Italian-American parents, Saxon grew up in Brooklyn, New York, and began modeling while still a teenager.
He then caught the eye of legendary talent agent Henry Willson, who spotted Saxon on the cover of a magazine and brought him to Hollywood.
Willson was credited for representing and helping to develop the careers of stars like Rock Hudson and Tab Hunter, the outlet said.
Then just 17, the aspiring actor signed with Willson, studied dramatics and then flew to Hollywood, where he was signed by Universal.
His name was changed to John Saxon.
He had strength and charm, which was a great combination. His strong presence allowed him, with ease to command every role he portrayed. Black Christmas, A Nightmare on Elm Street, Tenebrae and countless more…Rip the great John Saxon pic.twitter.com/SbrRGBd4eR
— Barbara Crampton (@barbaracrampton) July 26, 2020
According to IMDB, Saxon appeared in almost 200 roles in the movies and on television in a career that stretched over seven decades.
He made his big-screen debut in 1954 in uncredited roles in “It Should Happen to You” and George Cukor’s “A Star Is Born.”
His striking, angular profile and dark eyes led to roles playing Mexicans, Native Americans and Mongols.
Saxon also portrayed a Middle Eastern tycoon on the primetime soap opera series “Dynasty.”
His recurring role romanced Joan Collins’ character, Alexis Coby, from 1982-84.
Saxon also played the father of Lorenzo Lamas’ character on CBS primetime soap “Falcon Crest” from 1982-88.
Among other characters, Saxon portrayed an Indian chief on the popular TV Western series “Bonanza” and Marco Polo on the futuristic hit TV show “The Time Tunnel,” according to IMDB.
The Western Journal has reviewed this Associated Press story and may have altered it prior to publication to ensure that it meets our editorial standards.
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