Dick Miller, most known for his portrayal of Murray Futterman in 1984’s Gremlins, has passed away.
Miller’s prolific acting career spanned hundreds of on-screen appearances since the 1950s. He would go on to land roles in The Terminator, Fame, The Burbs, and many more. Miller collaborated with some of the film industry’s most revered directors, including James Cameron, Martin Scorsese, Ernest Dickerson, John Sayles, and longtime partner Joe Dante. Dante used Miller in every single project he helmed, like Piranha and the cult-classic films in which Miller has reprised his role as Walter Paisley.
Director Joe Dante reflected on his relationship with Miller in a series of heartfelt tweets:
“I’m devastated to report that one of my best friends and most treasured collaborators has passed away. I “grew up” (kinda) watching Dick Miller in movies from the 50s on and was thrilled to have him in my first movie for @RogerCorman… We hit it off and every script thereafter I always looked for a role for Dick–not just because he was my friend but because I loved watching him act! But he leaves behind over 100 performances, a bio & a doc–not bad for a guy who hardly ever enjoyed a starring role.”
Famed film critic Leonard Maltin also displayed his admiration for the late actor:
“Rest in peace, #DickMiller, star of Roger Corman‘s Bucket of Blood and good luck charm for so many Corman protégés for decades to follow. His presence in a movie always brought a smile to my face. Thank you sir.”
Even Edgar Wright, director of films like Shaun of the Dead, Hot Fuzz, and Baby Driver took to the Internet to remember Miller:
“RIP Dick Miller, surely the king of character actors. A friendly, funny face in Gremlins (1&2), Piranha, the original Little Shop Of Horrors, Not Of This Earth, After Hours & my personal beatnik fav, Walter Paisley in ‘A Bucket Of Blood’. Any role of his was cult movie nirvana.”
Dick Miller is survived by his wife Lainie, daughter Barbara, and granddaughter Autumn.
I’m a lover of good stories and good coffee. I still haven’t finished The Witcher 3 yet.
