JAMES GAMMON
1940-2010
James Gammon, actor and producer, died July 16 in Costa Mesa, CA of causes related to cancer of the adrenal glands and the liver. He was 70.
He co-founded the MET Theatre in Hollywood the early 1970s and often appeared on its stage, last appearing there in 2003 in the title role of “King Lear” opposite his daughter Allison, as Lear’s daughter Cordelia.
He was known as a particular favorite of playwright Sam Shepard, and appeared in productions of “The Late Henry Moss,” “Simpatico,” “Curse of the Starving Class,” “A Lie of the Mind,” and “Buried Child,” for which Gammon received a 1996 Tony nomination.
"Any Which Way You Can"
He achieved national recognition for his work on screen, appearing in some 64 films, including comedies like “Major League” and “Major League II” (as Cleveland Indians manager Lou Brown) and many, Westerns, among them “Wyatt Earp,” “Silverado,” “Cold Mountain,” “Appaloosa,” “Wild Bill,” and “The Milagro Beanfield War,” a contemporary Western for director Robert Redford. Gammon lent his distinctive, gravelly voice to animated features like “The Iron Giant” and “The Country Bears.”
Gammon was also known for his work on television, especially as Don Johnson’s father on “Nash Bridges.” James also played continuing characters on “The Waltons,” “Homefront,” and “Bagdad Café.”
He is survived by his wife of 38 years, Nancy, daughters Allison Mann and Amy Gammon; two grandchildren; a brother, Philip; and a sister, Sandra Glaudell.
There will be a memorial celebration of James Gammon’s life at his beloved MET Theatre, 1089 N. Oxford Ave., Hollywood 90069 on Sunday, August 22 at 2 p.m.
