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Remembering John Beasley: A Talented Actor; Dies At 79

John Beasley

It is with great sadness that we share the news of the passing of renowned actor John Beasley at the age of 79. Best known for his roles in popular TV shows such as Everwood and The Soul Man, Beasley's career spanned several decades and left an indelible mark on the entertainment industry. In addition to his professional accomplishments, Beasley was cherished as a loving father and role model to his son Mike, who recently paid tribute to his late father on Facebook. Today, we honor the life and legacy of John Beasley, celebrating his career highlights and the impact he made both on and off the screen.

John Beasley was born on June 26, 1943, in Omaha, Nebraska. Although he didn't embark on his acting journey until his forties, Beasley quickly made his mark in the industry. His early acting credits included notable films like V.I. Warshawski (1991), The Mighty Ducks (1992), Rudy (1993), Untamed Heart (1993), and Little Big League (1994). On the television front, Beasley appeared in shows such as Brewster Place (1990), Lucky Day (1991), and Laurel Avenue (1993), showcasing his versatility and talent.

Beasley's breakthrough came when he landed the role of Irv Harper in the television series Everwood, created by Greg Berlanti. Throughout the show's four-season run, Beasley captivated audiences with his portrayal of Irv Harper, solidifying his status as a respected actor. He also found success in the sitcom The Soul Man, created by Suzanne Martin and featuring Cedric the Entertainer. Beasley's compelling performances and natural charisma endeared him to viewers, further establishing his presence in the television landscape.

Beyond his memorable roles in Everwood and The Soul Man, John Beasley's career was marked by a wide range of television appearances. He showcased his talent in shows like Judging Amy, CSI, The Lost Room, NCIS, Boston Legal, CSI: Miami, Treme, The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks, Shots Fired, The Resident, and even the critically acclaimed series, The Mandalorian. Beasley's ability to embody a variety of characters across different genres illustrated his versatility and made him a sought-after actor.

In addition to his television work, John Beasley also made notable contributions to the world of cinema. His film credits included performances in movies such as The General's Daughter (1999), Crazy in Alabama (1999), The Sum of All Fears (2002), The Purge: Anarchy (2014), I'll See You in My Dreams (2015), The Turkey Bowl (2019), Cowboys (2020), and Spell (2020), among others. Beasley's final acting credit was in the movie Firestarter, released in 2022, capping off a remarkable career that spanned both the small and big screens.

While John Beasley's professional accomplishments were undoubtedly significant, his most cherished role was that of a father. In a heartfelt Facebook post, his son Mike shared his grief and expressed the profound impact his father had on his life. Mike referred to his father as his hero, emphasizing the deep bond they shared. He also thanked his father for everything and expressed his hope of making him proud. This touching tribute encapsulates the love and admiration Mike felt for his late father, showcasing the remarkable person John Beasley was beyond his acting career.