We meant to post this earlier this week but time just got away from us. But we hope to make up for it now. While Frank Finlay might have been known for his stage work, as well as plenty of TV work for the BBC, he did appear in enough horror titles that is worth noting.

He first got my attention for his portrayal of Van Helsing in the BBC’s 1977 adaptation of Count Dracula, starring Louis Jourdan as his rival. But even before that, he had appeared in such titles like The Deadly Bees (1966), Twisted Nerve (1968), and Neither the Sea Nor the Sand (1972). But it was his role in Tobe Hooper’s Lifeforce that most American fans would recognize him from. While it has it’s issues, it is a much better film that Finlay’s last horror film, in Juan Piquer Simón’s Cthulhu Mansion (1992)!

But that was the beauty of Finlay, a consumate actor that never did anything but gave his all for the roles he played. He always gave the project he was on an air of respectability, no matter the budget or script. And because of that, he is always worth watching.

Finlay passed away on Jan. 30th at the age of 89. In honor of the loss of this talented actor, seek out some of his lesser known titles and give them a watch. Because talent like his, need to be not only apprecited, but definitely remembered.