Roberts Blossom was an American actor who is best known for his roles in “Home Alone,” “Close Encounters of the Third Kind,” and “Deranged.” Known for his quirky and versatile performances, Blossom established a unique presence in both film and television.
Personal and Family Life
Roberts Blossom was born on March 25, 1924, in New Haven, Connecticut. He was educated at the Asheville School and attended Harvard for a year before serving in the army during World War II. Blossom was married twice; first to Beverly Carol Schmidt from 1966 to 1970, with whom he had two children, Michael and Debbie. He later married Marylin Sally Orshan in 1970, remaining with her until her death in 1982.
Career
After initially planning to become a therapist, Roberts turned to acting and made his film debut in “The Sin of Jesus” (1961). His breakout roles came in his forties, including the memorable portrayal of Ezra Cobb in “Deranged” (1974). Blossom also had notable appearances in “The Hospital” (1971), “Slaughterhouse-Five” (1972), and played the friendly neighbor in “Home Alone” (1990). In addition to acting, he was a poet and playwright, known for having released some of his dramatic poems on video.
Death and Legacy
Roberts Blossom passed away on July 8, 2011, in Santa Monica, California, at the age of 87 due to a stroke. His contributions to film and theater left a lasting impression, and he is remembered for his unique characters and storytelling abilities. As both an actor and a poet, Blossom’s work continues to be appreciated by audiences.
Filmography
Title | Release Date | Character |
---|---|---|
Home Alone | 1990-11-16 | Marley |
Close Encounters of the Third Kind | 1977-12-14 | Farmer |
Deranged | 1974-02-02 | Ezra Cobb |
The Hospital | 1971-12-14 | Guernsey |
Escape from Alcatraz | 1979-06-22 | Doc |
Doc Hollywood | 1991-08-02 | Judge Evans |
Slaughterhouse-Five | 1972-03-15 | Wild Bob Cody |
Christine | 1983-12-09 | George LeBay |
The Last Temptation of Christ | 1988-05-28 | Aged Master |
Always | 1989-12-22 | Dave |