Romulus Linney was an American playwright and actor who is best known for “Holy Ghosts,” “Sand Mountain,” and “The 34th Star.” He had a significant impact on American theater through his extensive body of work.
Personal and Family Life
Romulus Linney was born on September 21, 1930, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. He was named after his great-grandfather, a former U.S. Congressman. Linney was married three times, first to Miriam Anderson Leggett, then to Margaret Jane Andrews, and finally to Laura Callanan, with whom he remained until his death. He had two daughters, Laura Linney and Susan Linney.
Career
Linney wrote a total of 85 plays throughout his career, gaining recognition for works like “The Sorrows of Frederick” and “2: Goering at Nuremberg.” His play “The 34th Star” was notably produced for public television. Although his singular Broadway production was not commercially successful, he received numerous accolades, including two Obie Awards and recognition from the American Academy of Arts and Letters. He also contributed to education as a professor and head of Columbia University’s MFA Playwriting program.
Death and Legacy
Romulus Linney passed away on January 15, 2011, in Germantown, New York, due to lung cancer at the age of 80. He is remembered for his contributions to theater and for being the father of actress Laura Linney, with whom he shared the screen in the film “Kinsey.”
Filmography
| Role | Title | Year | Type |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rep B. Carroll Reece | Kinsey | 2004 | Actor |
| The American Parade | TV Mini Series | 1974 | Writer |