Notable Passings

...Barbara Billingsley, who achieved television immortality as June Cleaver on LEAVE IT TO BEAVER, has passed away at the age of 94.

Before becoming known as one of the iconic TV parents of the '50s, Billingsley played bit parts in numerous films, including THE SECRET HEART (1946), THE ARNELO AFFAIR (1947), THE SAXON CHARM (1948), CAUGHT (1949), and THE TALL TARGET (1951). She also appeared in AIRPLANE! (1980).

She is survived by two sons, a stepson, many grandchildren and great-grandchildren. She'll be fondly remembered by countless TV viewers.

...Actor Simon MacCorkindale has died of cancer at the age of 58.

The British-born MacCorkindale appeared in many TV series, TV-movies, and miniseries from the '70s on, including a recurring role on FALCON CREST. He also starred in the film DEATH ON THE NILE (1978) and the British TV series CASUALTY.

I particularly remember him for the Pierce Brosnan miniseries THE MANIONS OF AMERICA (1981), which has been released on VHS. Hopefully a DVD release will be coming one day.

MacCorkindale is survived by his wife of 26 years, actress Susan George.

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