R.G. Armstrong was an American actor who is best known for his roles in “Friday the 13th: The Series,” “Cat on a Hot Tin Roof,” and “Predator.” He had a career spanning several decades and became a familiar face in film and television, particularly in Westerns.
Personal and Family Life
R.G. Armstrong, whose birth name was Robert Golden Armstrong Jr., was born on April 7, 1917, in Birmingham, Alabama. He was married three times; his first marriage was to Ann Neale, followed by Susan M. Guthrie, and later to Mary Craven, with whom he remained until her passing in 2003. He had four children and enjoyed a close relationship with his family, including his niece or nephew, Jake Craven.
Career Highlights
Armstrong attended the University of North Carolina, where he performed with the Carolina Playmakers. His acting career took off in New York, eventually leading him to Hollywood. He appeared in many films and received acclaim for his stage performance as Big Daddy in “Cat on a Hot Tin Roof.” Over his career, he was known for his tough-guy roles and made guest appearances in numerous television series, especially Westerns.
Death and Legacy
R.G. Armstrong passed away from natural causes on July 27, 2012, in Studio City, California, just 24 days after the death of his best friend, Andy Griffith. He left behind a legacy of memorable performances and was beloved by those who worked with him. His contributions to theater and film, particularly in the genre of Westerns and off-Broadway productions, have cemented his place in entertainment history.
Filmography
Title | Release Date | Character |
---|---|---|
Predator | 1987-06-12 | Major General Homer Phillips |
Tiger by the Tail | 1970-01-01 | Ben Holmes |
Children of the Corn | 1984-03-09 | Diehl |
White Lightning | 1973-08-06 | Big Bear |
Stay Hungry | 1976-04-23 | Thor Erickson |
The Best of Times | 1986-01-31 | Schutte |
Pat Garrett & Billy the Kid | 1973-05-23 | Ollinger |
El Dorado | 1966-12-17 | Kevin MacDonald |
The Ballad of Cable Hogue | 1970-03-18 | Quittner |
The Car | 1977-05-12 | Amos Clements |
Evilspeak | 1981-08-22 | Sarge |
Friday the 13th: The Series | 1987-10-03 | Lewis Vandredi |
Purgatory | 1999-01-10 | Coachman |