Hollywood character actor Fred Ward died on May 8 at the age of 79, it was revealed by his publicist on Friday.The San Diego native began his career in the 1970s and went on to star in many well known films including Tremors, Henry & June, Sweet Home Alabama and Enough.He was best known for playing Gus Grissom in the 1983 US Space Program movie The Right Stuff opposite Sam Shepard and Dennis Quaid.
Sad loss:Hollywood character actor Fred Ward died on May 8 at the age of 79, it was revealed by his publicist on Friday. Seen in 2011Ward died Sunday, his publicist Ron Hoffman announced this week and according to The Hollywood Reporter, no cause or place of death was shared which was his family's wish.Ward, who was part Cherokee, had a background in boxing, which led to him playing gruff tough guys roles on the big screen.
The actor - who served three years in the US Air Force - appeared in over 70 movies and more than a dozen TV shows.He also had notable roles in Silkwood with Meryl Streep in 1983 then Swing Shift with Goldie Hawn in 1984.His last role was in 2015 as Eddie Velcoro for two episodes of the series True Detective with Matthew McConaughey and Woody Harrelson.
The Right roles:He was best known for playing Gus Grissom in the 1983 US Space Program movie The Right Stuff opposite Sam Shepard and Dennis Quaid.
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