Peter Haskell, a veteran actor who appeared in hundreds of TV shows, movies and stage plays, passed away on April 12, 2010, at his home in Northridge, California. He was 75 years old and the cause of death was reported to be a heart attack
A Long and Diverse Career
Haskell was born on October 15, 1934, in Boston, Massachusetts, to Rose and Norman Haskell, a geophysicist. He graduated from Harvard University with a degree in English literature and served in the U.S. Army for two years. He planned to study law at Columbia University, but changed his course after being cast in an off-Broadway play called The Love Nest, with James Earl Jones and Sally Kirkland
That was the beginning of a long and diverse career that spanned over five decades and various genres. Haskell appeared in numerous TV shows, such as Death Valley Days, Lassie, The Outer Limits, The Fugitive, The Mary Tyler Moore Show, The Streets of San Francisco, Charlie’s Angels, Matlock, Frasier, JAG, The Closer and Cold Case. He also starred in three soap operas: Search for Tomorrow, Ryan’s Hope and Rituals
He was best known for his role as Kevin Grant, a film producer in the prime-time drama Bracken’s World, which ran from 1969 to 1970. He also had recurring roles in Garrison’s Gorillas and Rich Man, Poor Man Book II. He was featured in several TV movies, such as The Eyes of Charles Sand, The Phantom of Hollywood, The Night They Took Miss Beautiful, Superdome, Mandrake and The Cracker Factory
His film credits include The Legend of Earl Durand, Riding the Edge and Robot Wars. He also played Mr. Sullivan, the CEO of Playpals Toys, in Child’s Play 2 and Child’s Play 3
A Passion for Theater
Haskell was not only an actor, but also a director and a supporter of theater. He directed a play called Kataki at the MET Theatre in Hollywood in 2010. He was also the vice-president and treasurer of Theatre East, a New York-based theater company that he participated in and supported for 40 years. A group member said he was “the heart and soul” of the company
Haskell was active on Facebook until the day before his death. He posted about his wife, his upcoming summer plans and the recent earthquake that shook Los Angeles. He also shared his work experience and achievements with his fans and friends. His last post read: “Now if I only knew what I was doing next.”
A Loving Family
Haskell was married twice. His first wife was Ann Compton, whom he married in 1960 and divorced in 1974. His second wife was Dianne “Crickett” Tolmich, whom he married in 1974 and remained with until his death. He had two children: Audra and Jason
His daughter Audra announced his death on his Facebook page on April 12. She wrote: “My father passed away peacefully this morning at home…He was an amazing father who taught me so much about life…He will be greatly missed by all who knew him.”
A memorial service was held at the MET Theatre on June 15. In lieu of flowers, donations were made in Peter Haskell’s memory to Theatre East
A Legacy of Talent
Peter Haskell was a talented actor who left behind a legacy of hundreds of performances on screen and stage. He entertained and inspired millions of viewers with his versatility and charisma. He was also a devoted husband, father and friend who loved life and theater. He died of a heart attack at the age of 75, but his memory lives on in the hearts of his family, colleagues and fans.
