Martin Landau — TV and movie actor Martin Landau discussing his role in new Woody Allen movie to open soon. October 09, 1989. (Photo by Michael Schwartz/New York Post Archives / (c) NYP Holdings, Inc. via Getty Images)
RIP Martin Landau…
The great Actor Martin Landau died July 15th at the age of 89 following “unexpected complications”, his publicist Dick Guttman confirmed Sunday.
I met this great Actor once, and he was a generous , compassionate person who was loved by all – and you can find multiple homages to him on social media from Actors and Directors.
Landau was well known for a variety of roles, including the hit TV series “Mission: Impossible” in the 60’s…I first saw him in the classic 1989 Woody Allen film “Crimes & Misdemeanors”:
Landau was brilliant as the Dentist who makes a life-changing decision – one that forces him to confront the evil that is in all of us.
Here is the trailer for the film:
Landau won the Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor in 1994 with his mesmerizing portrayal of legendary Horror Actor Bela Lugosi…
Tim Burton’s film “Ed Wood” was an affectionate look at the world’s worst Director, and his friendship with a drug-addled movie star…
These two roles cemented his place as one of entertainment’s great Talents…RIP to a terrific Actor and great person – he recently discussed his view on life – and acting:
‘Ageism is something that does exist. I don’t like to do what I call “the grunters” — a character who sits at a table and grunts, and young people make fun of. I turn a lot of those down. I like a character that is still alive, and is necessarily thinking, and either grows or diminishes, or whatever.’ – Martin Landau
RIP Martin Landau…
Martin Landau — TV and movie actor Martin Landau discussing his role in new Woody Allen movie to open soon. October 09, 1989. (Photo by Michael Schwartz/New York Post Archives / (c) NYP Holdings, Inc. via Getty Images)
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johnrieber 
I’m an autograph collector. I went to a show last October where he was appearing and he shook my hand and signed an 8×10 color photo as Rollin Hand from Mission:Impossible. I’m sorry to find out he’s gone so soon after meeting him.
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Yes, it was a shock to everyone, and he was known as a wonderful person to work with – glad you had a great experience!
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I remember him best in the cult 1970s sci-fi TV show, Space 1999. I grew up watching him play Commander John Koenig, of Moonbase Alpha. I also loved the part he played in ‘North by Northwest’ where he played James Mason’s creepy henchman who chases Cary Grant during the celebrated Mount Rushmore finale. Magic moments.
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Yes, he has such a rich history – and again, was a true gentleman – can’t say that about everyone in the business
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Very true. I would have loved to have met him. I imagine he was the perfect dinner guest.
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Sad day to have lost these two true talents. 😦
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Yes indeed and Romero was so young….I met Landau once and he was a true class act
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He was a fine actor. Just looking at his credits is extraordinary.
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Everyone mentioned the Oscar-winning role in “Ed Wood” but he is incredible in “Crimes & Misdemeanors” one of Allen’s best films
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Oh I agree. His work in that film was really compelling. His character’s dilemma and haunting expression always stay in my mind.
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I will always think of him as Rollin Hand from Mission Impossible, despite his many film roles.
Best wishes, Pete.
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Yes Pete, younger people don’t realize how long he entertained us!
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