Joe Turkel was an American actor who is best known for his roles in The Shining, Blade Runner, and Paths of Glory. He had a long career in film and television, becoming a notable character actor recognized for his distinctive performances.
Personal and Family Life
Joseph Matthew Arthur Turkel was born on July 15, 1927, in Brooklyn, New York, to Polish-Jewish immigrant parents, Benjamin and Gazella Turkel. He had two brothers and grew up in a working-class family. Joe joined the United States Army at the young age of 17 and served in Europe during World War II. He was married to Anita Cacciatore until her passing, and together they had two children, Craig and Robert.
Career Highlights
Joe Turkel gained fame through his collaboration with director Stanley Kubrick, appearing in three of his films: The Killing, Paths of Glory, and The Shining. He is particularly remembered for playing the unsettling bartender Lloyd in The Shining and the futuristic creator Dr. Eldon Tyrell in Blade Runner. In a 2014 interview, he expressed that Paths of Glory was his favorite project among his own films.
Death and Legacy
Joseph Turkel passed away from liver failure on June 27, 2022, just weeks shy of his 95th birthday. His contributions to cinema, particularly his work with Kubrick, have left a lasting impact on the film industry. Fans and fellow actors remember him for his memorable roles that showcased his unique talent as a character actor.
Filmography
| Title | Release Date | Character |
|---|---|---|
| Blade Runner | 1982-06-25 | Tyrell |
| The Killing | 1956-06-06 | Tiny |
| The Shining | 1980-05-23 | Lloyd |
| Paths of Glory | 1957-10-25 | Pvt. Pierre Arnaud |
| The Dark Side of the Moon | 1990-05-30 | Paxton Warner |
| The Sand Pebbles | 1966-12-20 | Bronson |
| The Hindenburg | 1975-12-25 | Detective Moore |
| Miami Vice | 1984-09-16 | |
| The Andy Griffith Show | 1960-10-03 | Fred |
| Kojak | 1973-10-24 | Swampgas |