Gerrit Graham, the character actor known for Phantom of the Paradise, Used Cars and Child’s Play 2, died Tuesday in Rhinebeck, New York. He was 77, his family announced.
Graham built a career around distinctive supporting roles, often using impressions and accents.
His screen debut came in De Palma’s Greetings in 1968, followed by another role in Hi, Mom! in 1970, both featuring Robert De Niro.
His most recognizable De Palma performance arrived in Phantom of the Paradise, where he portrayed Beef, a glam-rock singer whose character becomes central to the film’s dark musical storyline.
Graham later worked with De Palma again in Home Movies. His other film appearances included Paul Bartel’s Cannonball!, Demon Seed, Pretty Baby, Used Cars and Child’s Play 2.
On television, he appeared in series including Seinfeld, The Wonder Years, Laverne & Shirley, St. Elsewhere, Star Trek: Deep Space Nine and Star Trek: Voyager.
Graham also worked as a screenwriter and songwriter. His writing credits included episodes of The Twilight Zone and work connected to Disney’s Oliver & Company and The Little Mermaid.
His musical collaboration with Bob Weir produced “Victim or the Crime,” recorded by the Grateful Dead for their 1989 album Built to Last. Variety reported that Graham said the song’s opening line came from him.
Graham was born Nov. 27, 1949, in New York City. He married Deborah in 1982 and is survived by his wife, sons Jack and Henry, four grandchildren and his brother Sam.
