Ron Dean is being remembered by numerous figures in the entertainment industry following his passing at the age of 87. The news was announced by his partner, Maggie Neff.
Remembering Dean, director Andrew Davis said in a reported statement to Deadline:
"Ron Dean was my dear friend and a tremendous actor. He was the essence of what Chicago talent represented. Having a very troubled youth Ron turned his life around to have a wonderful career as a loving, decent human being and respected talent."
As of now, the cause of Dean’s death has not been disclosed.
Ron Dean remembered by the industry following his death at 87
American writer and film critic Richard Roeper wrote on X:
"The cop who told Joel to get off the babysitter in 'Risky Business.' The hard-case dad in 'The Breakfast Club.' A detective questioning Dr. Kimball in 'The Fugitive.' A corrupt cop in 'The Dark Knight.' Rest in peace to Ron Dean — a Chicago original."
Chicago, Theatre Capital of America's Facebook group's Albert Williams said in a post:
"I'm sorry to share the news that Chicago actor Ron Dean has passed away. Well known from his film and TV work, he also appeared on Chicago stages, including at the Goodman Theatre in its 1982 production of David Mamet's "Lakeboat.""
Film producer Tony DeGuide wrote in a Facebook post:
"In the film biz there are celebrities you cross paths with and on the other hand there are celebrities who directly impact your career. Ron Dean had a huge impact on my career. Ron and I worked together so many times, I can’t count. He was always generous and gracious to me. He was a mentor!"
Playwright Vicki Quade wrote on Facebook:
"Ron was my neighbor and it was always good running into him. We shared the same birth date, although years apart! We often talked about Chicago theater, upcoming projects."
She further added:
"He had roles in Chicago Fire, Chicago P.D., Early Edition, and ER and many others. He often played cops and coaches. I was sad when he told me he was retiring. Such a nice guy. I will miss him. Ron used to keep a giant pedicab in his parking spot, in case he wanted to go out for a ride. What a character!"
Author and writer Dan Burns wrote on Facebook:
"In 2014, our cast and crew had the fortunate opportunity to meet and work with Ron on the set of our short film, Out of Touch. He was a professional and generous actor, as well as a kind person, who brought his unique Chicago touch to our film. I know I can speak for everyone involved that our day together on set is one we will never forget. Ron, we'll see you on the other side."
Also read: Why does Robert Pattinson credit James Dean as his greatest influence? Details explored
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