James Karen was an American actor who is best known for his roles in The China Syndrome, Poltergeist, and The Return of the Living Dead.
Personal and Family Life
James Karen was born Jacob Karnofsky on November 28, 1923, in Wilkes Barre, Pennsylvania. He was the son of Mae Sarah Freed and Joseph Harris Karnofsky. Throughout his life, he was married twice, first to Susan Reed in 1949, with whom he had one child, and later to Alba Francesca in 1989, with whom he had another child. He remained with Alba until his death in 2018.
Career Highlights
James Karen began his acting career on Broadway, making his debut in A Streetcar Named Desire in 1947. He acted in over 20 Broadway productions and appeared in more than 100 television shows and 80 films. Notably, he was a spokesperson for Pathmark supermarkets, earning him the nickname “Mr. Pathmark.” Karen also earned recognition with awards like the Saturn Award for Lifetime Achievement.
Death and Legacy
James Karen passed away on October 23, 2018, in Los Angeles, California, due to cardiac arrest. He left behind a legacy as a versatile actor, remembered for both his major and minor roles in film and television. His contributions to the entertainment industry continue to be celebrated by fans and colleagues alike.
Filmography
| Title | Release Date | Character |
|---|---|---|
| The China Syndrome | 1979-03-16 | Mac Churchill |
| Mulholland Drive | 2001-06-06 | Wally Brown |
| The Pursuit of Happyness | 2006-12-14 | Martin Frohm |
| Congo | 1995-06-09 | College President / Elliot’s Boss |
| Frankenstein Meets the Space Monster | 1965-09-22 | Dr. Steele |
| Wall Street | 1987-12-10 | Lynch |
| Return of the Living Dead | 1985-04-25 | Frank |
| Poltergeist | 1982-06-04 | Mr. Teague |
| The Return of the Living Dead Part II | 1988-01-15 | Ed |
| Time Walker | 1982-11-01 | Dr. Wendell J. Rossmore |
| The Great Buster: A Celebration | 2018-10-05 | Self |
| Amazing Stories | 1985-09-29 | Richard Whelan |
| Seinfeld | 1989-07-05 | Mr. Canterman |