RIP Rip

Rip Torn has died.  Quite a career--he started out as the next James Dean and turned into a comedy classic.

He appeared on Broadway regularly throughout his career, cutting his teeth on Tennessee Williams' fare such as Cat On A Hot Tin Roof and Sweet Bird Of Youth in the 50s.  He also started working in film and TV in the 50s, often playing tough guys.

He rarely played the lead in films, but was memorable in supporting roles such as his turn in The Cincinnati Kid. He famously was offered the part in Easy Rider that made Jack Nicholson a star, but lost it when he pulled a knife on director Dennis Hopper (according to Hopper--Torn says it was the other way around).

He kept working regularly, but was probably better known in Hollywood as a reliable supporting actor than by the public at large.  He did get some recognition, though, with his Oscar nominated performance in Cross Creek (1983).

Then he got the part that changed everything--Artie the producer on HBO's Larry Sanders Show.  Artie was originally intended as more a straight man, but Torn's ferocious yet charming take turned the role into a comic tour de force.  It got him six Emmy nominations and one win. Even among a solid cast in a great show, Torn stood out.

For the rest of his career he was probably best known for his comedy work, such as Zed in Men in Black, Patches O'Houlihan in Dodgeball and recurring character Don Geiss in 30 Rock.  Then, about seven or eight years ago, he seemed to have retired.

No matter what else, he'll at least be remembered for his work on Larry Sander.  Sure, he did a lot more, but how many actors find that perfect role?