It has been confirmed to The Hollywood Reporter by agent Jane Schulman that television and film veteran Michael Parks passed away today, May 10th 2017, at age 77. A cause of death is currently unknown, but already Robert Rodriguez and Kevin Smith have posted tributes to the late actor and singer. Parks’ career started in 1960 and lasted over 55 years, with his most recent gigs including Argo and Django Unchained. He was also one of the lead actors in Tusk, one of the most “what the fuck” films of 2014.
Originally known for his roles in westerns, action thrillers and dramas, Michael Parks became a legend in the late 90’s and 2000’s for playing the character of Earl McGraw in a number of movies including From Dusk Till Dawn (1996), Kill Bill: Volume 1 (2003), and Grindhouse’s Death Proof and Planet Terror in 2007. He was also beloved for his role as Jean Renault in six episodes of “Twin Peaks.”
More noteworthy appearances include The Savage Bees (1976), Nightmare Beach (1989), Sorceress (1995) and Red State (2011). His other horror and science fiction credits include Murder at the World Series (1977), Night Cries (1978), The Evictors (1979), The China Lake Murders (1990), Wicked (1998), The Dead One (2007) and Maidenhead (2008).
All of us here at HorrorSociety.com send our condolences to his family, friends and fans. He’ll be missed by many!
R.I.P. Michael Parks
Apr. 24, 1940 – May 10, 2017
