John Karlen was an American actor who is best known for his roles in Cagney & Lacey (1981), Dark Shadows (1966), and House of Dark Shadows (1970).
Personal and Family Life
Born on May 28, 1933, in Brooklyn, New York, John Karlen grew up in a family that included his parents, Adam Marion Karlewicz and Helen Agnes Balondowicz. He was married to Betty Karlen from January 20, 1963, until their divorce in 1998, and they had one child together, Adam Karlen. Throughout his life, he faced personal challenges, including a gambling addiction.
Career Highlights
Karlen gained fame for his role as Willie Loomis in the gothic horror soap opera Dark Shadows, which aired from 1966 to 1971. He reprised this role in several audio dramas produced years later. Besides Dark Shadows, Karlen also appeared in numerous television shows and films, showcasing his versatile acting skills.
Death and Legacy
John Karlen passed away on January 22, 2020, in Burbank, California, due to congestive heart failure. He is remembered as a talented actor who left a significant mark on American television and film, particularly in the horror genre. His contributions to Dark Shadows helped solidify the show’s cult status.
Filmography
| Title | Release Date | Character |
|---|---|---|
| Frankenstein | 1973-01-16 | Otto Roget |
| Surf Ninjas | 1993-08-12 | Mac |
| Impulse | 1984-09-28 | Bob Russell |
| Dark Shadows | 1966-06-27 | Willie Loomis |
| Cagney & Lacey | 1982-03-25 | Harvey Lacey |
| House of Dark Shadows | 1970-09-09 | Willie Loomis |