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| Not for Publication | 1984-11-01 | Senor Wopperico |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 |