Merritt Butrick was an American actor known for his roles in “Star Trek II: The Wrath of Khan,” “Star Trek III: The Search for Spock,” and “Square Pegs.” He was born on September 3, 1959, in Gainesville, Florida, and left a significant mark in the acting world before his untimely death.
Personal and Family Life
Merritt Butrick grew up in Mill Valley, California, and graduated from Tamalpais High School in 1977. He pursued acting at the California Institute of the Arts but left due to lack of confidence from his instructors. Despite this, he found work and became known in the 1980s, especially for his portrayal of Dr. David Marcus in the “Star Trek” franchise.
Career
Butrick’s career began with a role in the police show “Hill Street Blues.” He gained fame as Johnny Slash in the sitcom “Square Pegs,” which showcased the lives of high school students. His character was quirky and comedic but ultimately the series was canceled amid controversy. He also starred in notable films like “Zapped!” and “Fright Night Part 2.”
Death and Legacy
Merritt Butrick passed away on March 17, 1989, at the age of 29 due to complications from AIDS. His contributions to the “Star Trek” franchise were honored posthumously, with his portrayal of Dr. Marcus remembered in various retrospectives. He remains a beloved figure among “Star Trek” fans and was commemorated in the NAMES Project AIDS Memorial Quilt.
Filmography
| Title | Release Date | Character |
|---|---|---|
| Star Trek II: The Wrath of Khan | 1982-06-04 | Dr. David Marcus |
| Star Trek III: The Search for Spock | 1984-06-01 | Dr. David Marcus |
| Death Spa | 1988-05-13 | David Avery |
| Head Office | 1985-06-06 | John Hudson |
| Shy People | 1987-05-14 | Mike |
| Wired to Kill | 1986-11-14 | Reegus |
| Zapped! | 1982-07-23 | Gary Cooter |
| Blood & Orchids | 1986-02-23 | Duane York |
| When Your Lover Leaves | 1983-10-31 | Aaron Scott |
| Fright Night Part 2 | 1988-04-07 | Richard “Richie” Green |
| Stagecoach | 1986-05-18 | Lt. Blanchard |
| Promises to Keep | 1985-10-15 | Reg |
| From the Dead of Night | 1989-02-27 | Rick |
| Splendor in the Grass | 1981-10-26 | Glenn |
| When the Bough Breaks | 1986-10-12 | Tim Kruger |
| Sweet Revenge | 1984-10-31 | Capt. Paul Dennison |
| Chain Letter | 1989-08-05 | Raymond Maston |
| Square Pegs | 1982-09-27 | |
| Fame | 1982-01-07 | |
| Hill Street Blues | 1981-01-15 | |
| Jake and the Fatman | 1987-09-26 | |
| CHiPs | 1977-09-15 | |
| Star Trek: The Next Generation | 1987-09-28 | T’Jon |
| Beauty and the Beast | 1987-09-25 |