When did Ron Dean first step into acting? Career highlights explored as 'Risky Business' star dies at 87

Ron Dean passes away at 87 (Image via Twitter)
Ron Dean passes away at 87 (Image via Twitter)

Ron Dean's acting career began in 1976 when he was 38 years old. Dean's debut film was The Last Affair, which Herni Charbaski directed. He played the role of David in the film. The American actor spent four decades in the film industry before retiring in 2016. Over the years, Ron has built an impressive filmography of over 20 films and up to 30 roles in television shows.

Ron grew up in Chicago, Illinois, which is a city surrounded by art and culture. He may have been influenced as a child to get into the performing arts. He later went to better his acting and storytelling skills by attending the DeKalb School of the Arts.

Ron Dean is known for his "tough-guy image," which may be why the actor was often cast in roles demanding a commanding character, such as a cop or a member of law enforcement. The 87-year-old actor passed away on October 5, but the exact cause of death has not been revealed.


Ron Dean's career highlights

Ron Dean has been in the film industry for four decades and has appeared in numerous popular films over the years. He is often cast as an authoritative character because of his tough-guy image.

Some of the most notable films and television shows Dean has appeared in include:

  • Risky Business
  • Breakfast Club
  • The Fugitive
  • The Dark Knight
  • Early Edition

A few years into acting, Dean played the role of a 'Detective With Bullhorn' in Risky Business. He acted alongside Tom Cruise and Rebecca De Mornay. In 1985, he appeared in The Breakfast Club. Ron Dean played the role of Mr. Clark, who is also the protagonist's (Andrew) father.

Eight years later, he was cast in The Fugitive to play the role of Detective Kelly. A few of his co-stars in the film were Harrison Ford, Tommy Lee Jones, and Sela Ward.

15 years later, he appeared in The Dark Knight as Detective Wuertz. The film was directed by Christopher Nolan, and Christian Bale played the role of Batman/Bruce Wayne.

Another one of Ron Dean's impressive roles did not include acting in a movie, but a television series called Early Edition. It was an American fantasy comedy-drama, and he played the role of Detective Marion "Zeke" Crumb in 16 episodes.

The last film Dean appeared in was One Small Hitch, where he played the role of Art Burke (2012). As for television shows, the last show he appeared in was Chicago P.D. in 2016. He played the role of Ray Sharansky in the "In a Duffel Bag" episode.


Ron Dean will be remembered for his strong screen presence and the tough, no-nonsense characters he brought to life. With a career that spanned four decades, he left behind a legacy that will continue to be celebrated by fans and fellow actors alike.

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Edited by Benidamika Jones Latam