Rip Torn was an American actor best known for his roles in “Men in Black,” “The Larry Sanders Show,” and “Cross Creek.” Born Elmore Rual Torn Jr. on February 6, 1931, in Temple, Texas, he had a long and diverse career in film and theater.
Personal and Family Life
Rip Torn was born to Thelma Mary and Elmore Rudolph Torn. He had three marriages; first to Ann Wedgeworth, then to the renowned actress Geraldine Page, and later to Amy Wright, with whom he remained until his death. Torn had a total of five children, including actors Tony Torn and Angelica Page. He was also related to actress Sissy Spacek, as she was his cousin.
Career Achievements
Torn started his career in television during the Golden Age and made his Broadway debut in “Sweet Bird of Youth.” He received a Tony Award nomination for his performance and went on to become well-known in both film and theater. With memorable performances in “Payday” and “Defending Your Life,” he garnered a strong reputation in the industry, winning an Emmy for his role in “The Larry Sanders Show.”
Death and Legacy
Rip Torn passed away on July 9, 2019, in Lakeville, Connecticut, at the age of 88 due to Alzheimer’s disease. He left behind a powerful legacy in acting, known for his gruff voice and dynamic roles across various platforms, influencing many future actors.
Filmography
| Title | Release Date | Character |
|---|---|---|
| Men in Black | 1997-07-02 | Zed |
| Men in Black II | 2002-07-03 | Zed |
| The Cincinnati Kid | 1965-10-15 | William Jefferson Slade |
| The Man Who Fell to Earth | 1976-03-18 | Nathan Bryce |
| Canadian Bacon | 1995-06-08 | General Dick Panzer |
| Marie Antoinette | 2006-05-24 | Louis XV |
| Airplane II: The Sequel | 1982-12-10 | Bud Kruger / President Reagan |
| Cat on a Hot Tin Roof | 1984-08-19 | Big Daddy |
| Wonder Boys | 2000-02-22 | Q |
| The Larry Sanders Show | 1992-08-15 | Arthur |