Harry Dean Stanton dies at 91

Tributes from acting world to Twin Peaks star

by Amber Wilkinson

Harry Dean Stanton - an American original
Harry Dean Stanton - an American original

American Twin Peaks and Paris, Texas star Harry Dean Stanton has died at the age of 91. The character actor, who racked up roles in scores of films across more than six decades, died of natural causes.

Kentucky-born Stanton appeared in a slew hit films including, Cool Hand Luke, Alien, Escape From New York and Repo Man.

One of his most frequent collaborators was director David Lynch, who worked with him on Wild At Heart , Twin Peaks: Fire Walk With Men and Inland Empire. He also worked with him on the most recent series of Twin Peaks.

Lynch last night paid tribute to his friend. He wrote: “The great Harry Dean Stanton has left us. There went a great one. There’s nobody like Harry Dean. Everyone loved him. And with good reason. He was a great actor (actually beyond great) – and a great human being – so great to be around him!!! You are really going to be missed Harry Dean!!! Loads of love to you wherever you are now!!!”

His co-star in 1996 film Pretty In Pink also paid tribute to him. Jon Cryer wrote: “Was an honor, man. #RIPHarryDeanStanton”, alongside a photo of the two of them on the set.

Escape From New York director John Carpenter wrote: "Harry Dean Stanton was a wonderful man, kind and full of humor. He was also a great actor. Goodbye, Harry Dean. Rest in peace."

Dean Stanton's life was considered in the documentary Harry Dean Stanton: Partly Fiction

His most recent film, Lucky, directed by John Carroll Lynch, is due for release in the US on September 29.

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