Gerrit Graham, 'Phantom of the Paradise' Actor and Grateful Dead Collaborator, Dies at 77
Gerrit Graham, an actor known for his role in Brian De Palma's 'Phantom of the Paradise' and a screenwriter who collaborated with Bob Weir of The Grateful Dead, has died at age 77. He passed away in Rhinebeck, New York, after suffering from lung disease. Graham's career spanned film, television, and music, including writing the song 'Victim or The Crime' for the band's 'Built To Last' album. He is survived by his wife, two sons, and four grandchildren.
Key points
- Gerrit Graham died on Tuesday in Rhinebeck, New York, at the age of 77, according to Variety.
- He is best known for playing the character Beef in Brian De Palma's 1970 film 'Phantom of the Paradise' and for his collaboration with Bob Weir on the song 'Victim or The Crime.'
- Graham's acting career included roles in 'Hi Mom!', 'Greetings', 'Demon Seed', 'Pretty Baby', and 'Child's Play 2', as well as appearances on 'Seinfeld' and 'Star Trek: Deep Space Nine.'
- As a screenwriter, he worked on Disney projects like 'The Little Mermaid' and 'Oliver & Company', and co-wrote the adaptation of 'Prince and The Pauper' with his brother Chris Hubbell.
- Graham lived in Rhinebeck for the last 30 years of his life and served on the Burger Hill Preservation Society.
- He is survived by his wife Deborah, sons Jack and Henry, and four grandchildren.
Background
Graham's death occurs shortly after a major exhibition in San Francisco celebrating the Grateful Dead and the psychedelic era, which featured Ken Kesey's Furthur bus and Jerry Garcia's BMW. This event highlighted the enduring cultural impact of the band and its associated figures, including collaborators like Graham. The archive also notes how later bands like Wilco and My Morning Jacket have drawn inspiration from the Grateful Dead's collaborative and improvisational style, a tradition Graham participated in through his work with Bob Weir.
Why it matters
Gerrit Graham's death marks the end of a career that bridged the worlds of 1970s cinema, television, and rock music. His collaboration with Bob Weir on 'Victim or The Crime' is a notable example of cross-genre creativity in the Grateful Dead's catalog. His work with Brian De Palma and on major Disney films also highlights his versatility as an actor and writer, making his passing a significant loss to entertainment history.
What to watch
There is no information provided about upcoming events, memorials, or tributes to Gerrit Graham. The article focuses on his life and career, and there are no announced plans for public remembrance or industry recognition mentioned in the source.
Want the full story? Read the original reporting
Read on Variety