George ‘Buck’ Flower

George “Buck” Flower was an American actor who is best known for his roles in The Fog, They Live, and Escape from New York. With a career spanning 35 years, he appeared in more than 100 films as a character actor.

Personal and Family Life

Born on October 28, 1937, in Milton-Freewater, Oregon, George Albert Flower enlisted in the army as a teenager. After his military service, he attended Eastern Oregon College and later Pasadena City College. He became a member of a theater group known as The Inspiration Players, touring across Alaska and the continental U.S. for twelve years. George “Buck” Flower had a daughter, Verkina Flower, who followed in his footsteps in the film industry as both an actress and costume designer.

Career Highlights

Flower started acting in films during the early 1970s, making a name for himself in various lowbrow productions. His notable roles often included playing quirky characters such as bums, drunks, and old men, which showcased his unique and rugged charm. He gained significant attention for his performances in multiple John Carpenter films, where his character portrayals became some of his most recognized work over the years.

Death and Legacy

George “Buck” Flower passed away from cancer on June 18, 2004, in Los Angeles, California, at the age of 66. His diverse work, which ranged from family movies to horror and soft-core films, contributed significantly to his lasting legacy as a beloved character actor in American cinema. Flower’s performances continue to resonate with fans and cinephiles alike.

Filmography

TitleRelease DateCharacter
Alice Goodbody1974-12-01Roger Merkel (as C.D. LaFleure)
The Adventures of the Wilderness Family1975-12-19Boomer
Ilsa: Harem Keeper of the Oil Sheiks1976-02-29Beggar
The Fog1980-02-07Tommy Wallace
They Live1988-11-04Drifter
Back to the Future1985-07-03Red the Bum
Escape from New York1981-07-10Bum
Village of the Damned1995-04-28Carlton
Pumpkinhead1988-06-09Mr. Wallace
Body Bags1993-08-08Stranger