Allen Garfield was an American actor who is best known for his roles in “Beverly Hills Cop II,” “The Conversation,” and “The Ninth Gate.” Born on November 22, 1939, in Newark, New Jersey, he had a successful career in both film and television, leaving a lasting impact on the industry.
Personal and Family Life
Allen Garfield was born as Allen Goorwitz to parents Alice and Philip Goorwitz. He had a sister named Lois. He was married to Mimi Leder from June 28, 1980, until their divorce on April 25, 1984. Throughout his life, he was known for his unique personality and approach to acting, having trained at the Actors Studio in New York City.
Career Highlights
Garfield had a prolific career in theater before transitioning to film, making his debut in 1968. He was recognized for his ability to portray shady characters, such as corrupt businessmen and lecherous villains, which earned him notable roles throughout the 1970s and 1980s. Later in life, a series of strokes led him to reduce his acting roles significantly.
Death and Legacy
Allen Garfield passed away on April 7, 2020, in Woodland Hills, Los Angeles, due to complications from COVID-19. Interestingly, he died on the same day as filmmaker Francis Ford Coppola’s 81st birthday, with whom he collaborated on several projects. Garfield is remembered for his versatile talent and contributions to film and television, having appeared in numerous iconic productions.
Filmography
| Title | Release Date | Character |
|---|---|---|
| Beverly Hills Cop II | 1987-05-18 | Harold Lutz |
| The Conversation | 1974-04-07 | William P. ‘Bernie’ Moran |
| The Ninth Gate | 1999-08-25 | Witkin |
| The Front Page | 1974-11-01 | Kruger |
| Nashville | 1975-06-11 | Barnett |
| My Best Friend’s Birthday | 1987-01-01 | Entertainment Magnate |
| Diabolique | 1996-03-22 | Leo Katzman |
| The Cotton Club | 1984-12-14 | Otto ‘Abbadabba’ Berman |
| Irreconcilable Differences | 1984-09-28 | Phil Hanner |
| Get Crazy | 1983-08-05 | Max Wolfe |