LOS ANGELES — Whitney Rydbeck, a renowned actor known for his role in the horror film “Friday the 13th Part VI: Jason Lives,” has died at the age of 79. The actor passed away on Monday due to complications from prostate cancer while under hospice care. Tommy McLoughlin, the director of the sixth installment of the “Friday the 13th” series, confirmed Rydbeck’s death.
McLoughlin took to Instagram to pay tribute to the late actor, describing him as a talented comedian and actor with a kind heart. He expressed his sorrow over the loss, stating that Rydbeck’s departure is a loss for the world but a gain for heaven.
Born and raised in Los Angeles, Rydbeck attended Pasadena High School and Pasadena City College before furthering his education at Cal State Fullerton. He initially pursued theater studies and even worked as a mime before venturing into acting.
Rydbeck’s acting career began in the 1970 episode of “Nanny and the Professor.” Over the next decade, he appeared in popular shows such as “The Brady Bunch,” “MAS*H,” and “Monster Squad.” His filmography includes roles in “Love at First Bite,” “Rocky II,” and Steven Spielberg’s “1941.”
In the 1986 horror film “Friday the 13th Part VI: Jason Lives,” Rydbeck portrayed Roy, a paintball soldier who becomes one of Jason Voorhees’ victims. He also gained recognition for his role as a crash test dummy named “Larry” in seat belt safety public service announcements during the 1980s, highlighting the severe consequences of not wearing seat belts in simulated car accidents.
Throughout the 1980s and 1990s, Rydbeck continued to appear in various shows and films, including “7th Heaven,” “Star Trek: The Next Generation,” and “Murder, She Wrote.” He retired from acting after his role in the 2007 short film “The Oates’ Valor” and reportedly served as a drama teacher at Pasadena City College in his later years.
Whitney Rydbeck leaves behind a legacy that spans across different genres, showcasing his versatility and talent as an actor. His contributions to the entertainment industry will be remembered.