The horror genre has lost an iconic figure today. Sure, this man might not have been as prolific as actors like Peter Cushing or Vincent Price, but the horror few roles that he did appear in, he made quite an impact. At least for me, he did. We are saddened to announce the passing of actor Richard Johnson, at the age of 87. Starting his career as a stage actor, touring with John Gielgud’s repertory once he got out of the Royal Academy of Dramatic Arts, he made quite a name for himself on the stage.

But of course, for us horror fans, he will always be remembered for two characters that he played, both being doctors, but each investigating a very different malady. In 1963, Robert Wise adapted Shirley Jackson’s novel The Haunting of Hill House for the film version simple entitled The Haunting. Richard Johnson starred as Dr. Markway, a budding parapsychologist who is tryinig to investigate the dreaded Hill House, where the living don’t seem to be welcomed there. Appearing along side other theater greats like Julie Harris, Claire Bloom, and Russ Tamblyn, this 50+ year old film is still one of the most effective and scariest haunted house films ever made. Of course the 2nd film is appearing as Dr. Menard, who is frantically trying to discover the cause of the zombie outbreak on the small island of Matul, in Lucio Fulci’s Zombie. Even with the outrageousness of the film, Johnson still gave a serious and compelling performance.

Of course, he also appeared in other genre titles like Beyond the Door (1974), The Comeback (1978), Island of the Fishmen (1979), and The Great Alligator (1979). So there are many ways and many films that we will be able to remember this fine actor.

I was honored to have the opportunity to be able meet Mr. Johnson, thanks to Mike Baronas and Cinema Wasteland, when they held their Zombie reunion. I don’t tend to get my photo with guests that often but for this occasion, I couldn’t pass it up. Such a great and talented actor. I know I will be viewing The Haunting this weekend in honor of Mr. Johnson. Rest in Peace, Mr. Johnson. You will be missed but will never be forgotten.