Though his name may not have been as well known as the next, Science Fiction and Fantasy fans of a certain era very well might remember Austin Stoker for his work aboard 1973's Battle For The Planet Of The Apes (20th Century Fox), another chapter in the earlier incarnation of the wider Planet Of The Apes saga.
Interestingly enough, that wasn't his only foray into that world. The Apes called again -- this time in animated fashion -- and Stoker was brought aboard to voice the character of 'Jeff Allen' in Return To The Planet Of The Apes 13-episode run in 1975. (For those interested in that sort of thing, the show is available on DVD for home purchase.) I guess that shows that a single visit into genre might open the doors for more when and if the opportunity is right.
As for other rest stops in entertainment?
1976's Gemini Man is now billed on IMDB.com as a mini-series event, but -- back in the day -- I'm pretty certain this one was a regular series that only enjoyed a single season.
During the epic run of The Six Million Dollar Man in 1970's television, Stoker paid three visits (two as the same character, and one as someone completely different).
In 1979, he stopped by for a guest spot in CBS's fondly remembering The Incredible Hulk.
In 1982, the silver screen called, and Stoker was cast in the role of Dr. Ken Melrose for the cinematic Time Walker from Byzantine Productions.
There were a few other small characters the actor played, but I'll leave it at that.
Word reached my desk this morning that he's passed away. As I always say, none of us lasts forever, but thankfully these actors and actresses can live on with the work they've provided us as a momento of their time in this realm.
Prayers are extended to the friends, fans, and family of Austin Stoker.
-- EZ
Interestingly enough, that wasn't his only foray into that world. The Apes called again -- this time in animated fashion -- and Stoker was brought aboard to voice the character of 'Jeff Allen' in Return To The Planet Of The Apes 13-episode run in 1975. (For those interested in that sort of thing, the show is available on DVD for home purchase.) I guess that shows that a single visit into genre might open the doors for more when and if the opportunity is right.
As for other rest stops in entertainment?
1976's Gemini Man is now billed on IMDB.com as a mini-series event, but -- back in the day -- I'm pretty certain this one was a regular series that only enjoyed a single season.
During the epic run of The Six Million Dollar Man in 1970's television, Stoker paid three visits (two as the same character, and one as someone completely different).
In 1979, he stopped by for a guest spot in CBS's fondly remembering The Incredible Hulk.
In 1982, the silver screen called, and Stoker was cast in the role of Dr. Ken Melrose for the cinematic Time Walker from Byzantine Productions.
There were a few other small characters the actor played, but I'll leave it at that.
Word reached my desk this morning that he's passed away. As I always say, none of us lasts forever, but thankfully these actors and actresses can live on with the work they've provided us as a momento of their time in this realm.
Prayers are extended to the friends, fans, and family of Austin Stoker.
-- EZ
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