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Born: November 2, 1936 – Died: March 27, 1989
Jack Starrett was a talented and versatile actor and director, known for his work in down-'n'-dirty low-budget drive-in exploitation films. Born on November 2, 1936, in Refugio, Texas, Starrett made his mark in the entertainment industry with his captivating performances and his directorial skills. He first caught attention as "Coach Jennings" in Like Father, Like Son (1961) and later gained recognition for his role as "Gabby Johnson" in "Blazing Saddles" (1974). With his commanding screen presence and memorable characters, Starrett left a significant impact on the world of cinema. He tragically passed away at the age of 52 on March 27, 1989, but his contributions to the industry continue to be celebrated.
Early Life and Career
Jack Starrett was born and raised in Refugio, Texas. He attended San Marcos Academy in the 1940s and 1950s, where he honed his acting skills. Starrett made his acting debut as "Coach Jennings" in the film Like Father, Like Son in 1961. However, it was his role as "Gabby Johnson" in the iconic film Blazing Saddles in 1974 that gained him widespread recognition and solidified his status in Hollywood. Known for his rough, commanding presence, Starrett became a prominent figure in the world of low-budget exploitation films.
Aside from acting, Starrett also ventured into directing, with two superior biker features that showcased his talent behind the camera. Throughout his career, he worked on a variety of film and television projects, including popular shows like The A-Team and Knight Rider. While he faced personal struggles with alcoholism, Starrett's talent and contributions to the entertainment industry never went unnoticed.
Starrett was married to soap opera actress Karen M. Forman from 1978 to 1980. They had a daughter named Jennifer Starrett. While he may not have received numerous awards, his performances and contributions to the industry were highly regarded by fans and fellow professionals.
Jack Starrett's impact on Hollywood and the entertainment industry can be seen through his memorable characters and his dedication to making enjoyable low-budget films. He has a lasting legacy as a talented actor and director, known for his commanding screen presence and his memorable performances in exploitation cinema. Though tragically departing at a young age, Jack Starrett's contributions continue to be celebrated, and he remains an influential figure in the world of cinema.
Filmography
| Year | Title | Role |
|---|---|---|
| 1990 | Hollywood Heartbreak | Lou Budowski |
| 1989 | Nightwish | Professor |
| 1989 | Family Reunion | Charlie |
| 1988 | Brothers in Arms | Father |
| 1988 | Death Chase | Lt. MacGrew |
| 1987 | Like Father Like Son | Coach Jennings (uncredited) |
| 1986 | The A-Team (TV Series) | Wade Blackburn |
| 1985 | Hunter (TV Series) | Bartender | Dennis Balzer |
| 1983–1985 | Knight Rider (TV Series) | Sheriff | Lt. George Barth | Hagen |
| 1985 | Wildside (TV Series) | General Abraham Wollack |
| 1984 | The River | Swick |
| 1983 | Grizzly II: Revenge | Papas |
| 1983 | The Rousters (TV Series) | Unknown |
| 1983 | Hill Street Blues (TV Series) | Farley |
| 1982 | First Blood | Galt |
| 1979 | The Rose | Dee |
| 1979 | Survival of Dana (TV Movie) | Police Station Photographer (voice, uncredited) |
| 1979 | Mr. Horn (TV Mini Series) | Gen. George Crook |
| 1977 | Nowhere to Hide (TV Movie) | Gus |
| 1976 | A Small Town in Texas | Buford Tyler (as Claude Ennis Starrett Jr.) |
| 1975 | Race with the Devil | Gas Station Attendant |
| 1974 | The Dion Brothers | Gentleman Rancher (as Claude Ennis Starrett Jr.) |
| 1974 | Blazing Saddles | Gabby Johnson (as Claude Ennis Starrett Jr.) |
| 1973 | Kid Blue | Tough Guy (as Claude Ennis Starrett Jr.) |
| 1971 | Cade's County (TV Series) | Wilbur Bain |
| 1970 | Cry Blood, Apache | The Deacon |
| 1970 | Hell's Bloody Devils | Rocky |
| 1970 | The Losers | Chet Davis (uncredited) |
| 1970 | The Girls from Thunder Strip | Sheriff |
| 1969 | The Gay Deceivers | Colonel Dixon |
| 1968 | Angels from Hell | Bingham |
| 1967 | The Born Losers | Deputy Fred |
| 1967 | Hells Angels on Wheels | Sgt. Bingham |
| 1961 | Like Father, Like Son | Football Coach Jennings |
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