Gerrit Graham, the notable character actor known for his roles in Phantom of the Paradise and other Brian De Palma films, has passed away at 77 due to complications from lung disease. His ex-wife, Dede Taylor, confirmed his death at an assisted living facility in Rhinebeck, New York.
Graham’s filmography includes a variety of memorable roles, such as:
- An aspiring country singer in Cannonball! (1976)
- A computer nerd in Demon Seed (1977)
- An abusive boyfriend in Pretty Baby (1978)
- One of the scheming salesmen in Used Cars (1980)
- The foster father in Child’s Play 2 (1990)
He made his debut in De Palma’s Greetings (1968) and reprised his role in the sequel Hi, Mom! (1970), both featuring a young Robert De Niro. One of his most iconic roles was as the glam rock star Beef in Phantom of the Paradise (1974).
Graham co-wrote the Grateful Dead song “Victim or the Crime” with Bob Weir, contributing the impactful line, “Patience runs out on the junkie.” He was born on November 27, 1948, in New York, later attending Columbia University, where he collaborated with De Palma in theater.
His television credits include notable roles on Dallas, The Critic, and guest appearances on shows like Seinfeld and St. Elsewhere. He also contributed as a screenwriter to episodes of the rebooted Twilight Zone and animated classics like Oliver & Company and The Little Mermaid.
Gerrit is survived by his sons, Jack and Henry, and grandchildren Nolan, Micah, Vera, and Joey.
