Barry Dennen

Barry Dennen was an American actor known for his roles in Jesus Christ Superstar, Cabaret, and The Shining. He had a versatile career spanning over five decades, embracing stage, film, and voice work.

Personal and Family Life

Barry Dennen was born on February 22, 1938, in Chicago, Illinois. He moved to Los Angeles with his family during his childhood. He had a significant relationship with Barbra Streisand, who lived with him during her early career. Dennen married British actress Pamela Strong in 1969, and the couple adopted two sons before divorcing in 1981.

Career Highlights

Dennen’s career began in New York City, where he performed in workshops and on the cabaret circuit. He gained fame for his role as the Emcee in the original West End production of Cabaret and as Pontius Pilate in Jesus Christ Superstar. His talent in voice acting also led him to work on various animated series and video games over the years.

Death and Legacy

Barry Dennen passed away on September 26, 2017, in Burbank, California, after suffering a serious brain injury from a fall. He left behind a rich legacy in theater and film, remembered for his unique performances and contributions to the arts.

Filmography

Title Release Date Character
The Shining 1980-05-23 Watson
The Dark Crystal 1982-12-17 Chamberlain / Podling (voice)
Jesus Christ Superstar 1973-08-15 Pontius Pilate
Twin Sitters 1994-10-01 Thomas
The Secret Cinema 1967-03-08 Psychiatrist
Madhouse 1974-05-22 Gerry Blount
Heavenly Sword 2014-06-30 Flying Fox / Prophet Takashi (voice)
Brannigan 1975-03-21 Julian
Fiddler on the Roof 1971-11-03 Mendel
Shock Treatment 1981-08-21 Irwin Lapsey
Titanic 1997-11-18 Praying Man
Batman Beyond: Tech Wars / Disappearing Inque 1999-05-08 Captain
Barbra Streisand, naissance d’une diva 1942–1984 2017-04-16 Self
Justice League: Throne of Atlantis 2015-01-13 Defense Advisor (voice)
Ring of Passion 1978-02-04 Adolf Hitler
Trading Places 1983-06-07 Demitri
Superman III 1983-06-17 Dr. McClean
Clifford 1994-04-01 Terry the Pterodactyl
Ragtime 1981-11-20 Stage Manager
Not for Publication 1984-11-01 Senor Wopperico
Rabbit Test 1978-04-09 Mad Bomber
What Ever Happened to Baby Jane? 1991-02-17 Stage Manager
The Easter Story 1990-01-01 Priest (voice)
She Woke Up 1992-01-19 Dr. John Landover
Killer Instinct 1988-11-22 Mr. Martin
The Juggler of Notre Dame 1970-02-11 The Juggler
Demonella 1993-05-20 Adolf Hitler