Jack Starrett was an American actor and director who is best known for his roles in Blazing Saddles, First Blood, and Race with the Devil.
Personal and Family Life
Jack Starrett was born Claude Ennis Starrett Jr. on November 2, 1936, in Refugio, Texas. He was married twice, first to Valerie Starrett, a soap opera actress, from 1958 to 1969, and later to Karen M. Forman from 1978 to 1980. He had one daughter, Jennifer Starrett, who also pursued acting. Starrett struggled with alcoholism, which affected both his personal and professional life.
Career Highlights
Starrett made his acting debut in 1961 in Like Father, Like Son and later became a director known for producing entertaining low-budget films. His most notable directorial works include Run, Angel, Run! and The Losers, which impacted many action movies in the 1980s. Jack Starrett also had a memorable role in the classic film Blazing Saddles as the character Gabby Johnson and is remembered for his role in First Blood alongside Sylvester Stallone.
Death and Legacy
Jack Starrett passed away from kidney failure on March 27, 1989, in Sherman Oaks, California, at the age of 52. His contributions to the film industry, especially in the realm of low-budget action films and comedies, left a significant mark. Starrett is remembered for his unique characters and his ability to bring humor and depth to his roles.
Filmography
| Title | Release Date | Character |
|---|---|---|
| First Blood | 1982-10-22 | Deputy Sgt. Arthur Galt |
| Race with the Devil | 1975-06-01 | Gas Station Attendant |
| Hell’s Bloody Devils | 1970-05-28 | Rocky |
| The Born Losers | 1967-07-12 | Deputy Fred |
| Death Chase | 1988-03-12 | Lt. MacGrew |
| Nightwish | 1989-12-05 | Professor |
| Cry Blood, Apache | 1970-09-01 | The Deacon |
| Blazing Saddles | 1974-02-07 | Gabby Johnson |
| The River | 1984-12-01 | Swick |