Phantom of the Paradise and Star Trek actor Gerrit Graham dies aged 76

Fans have remembered his stellar performance as glam rocker Beef in Phantom of the Paradise (Picture: 20thC.Fox/Everett/Shutterstock) Gerrit Graham, the actor and screenwriter known for his roles in Phantom of the Paradise and Star Trek among many others, has died aged 76. His death was announced in a statement published on his Facebook page, where he was described as ‘a beloved father, grandfather, devoted friend, and legendary character actor’. The message said that Graham, who would have turned 77 at his next birthday in November, died ‘peacefully’ on September 15, ‘comforted by the presence of his two sons at his side’. Hailed as a ‘remarkably versatile talent’, one of Graham’s earliest roles was in the 1970 black comedy film Hi, Mom!, which also marked one of Robert De Niro’s first films. In 1974, he starred in the rock musical Phantom of the Paradise, playing the glam rocker Beef, a character that many fans have remembered following his death. ‘Gerrit Graham as Beef in Phantom of the Paradise is one of the most hilarious performances you will ever ever ever see,’ one fan called Rabbit Guy wrote on X in tribute. The actor appeared in two different Star Trek series in the 90s (Picture: Gabe Ginsberg/Getty Images) He appeared in two Star Trek series as different characters – first, as The Hunter in Star Trek: Deep Space Nine in 1993, and second as Quinn in Star Trek Voyager in 1996. Graham’s other films and TV shows included National Lampoon’s Class Reunion, Used Cars, Class Reunion, Starsky & Hutch, Dynasty, The Dukes of Hazzard, Lois & Clark: The New Adventures of Superman and Law & Order. The statement announcing his death continued: ‘Beyond acting, Gerrit was an accomplished writer and lyricist. He co-wrote several songs with Bob Weir, most notably penning the lyrics for the Grateful Dead’s Victim or the Crime. ‘His creative pen also shaped television and film: he contributed dialogue and story material to Disney’s The Little Mermaid (1989), co-wrote the animated short The Prince and the Pauper (1990), and penned episodes for the 1980s revival of The Twilight Zone.’ He had a prolific career as a character actor and screenwriter (Picture: Kobal/Shutterstock) The message said that Graham ‘worked passionately’ until health issues meant that he had to retire. ‘He will be remembered not only for the brilliance, wit, and depth he brought to his craft, but for the love and devotion he shared with his family and friends. He is survived by his two sons, his grandchildren, and a lasting legacy of unforgettable art.’ According to Variety, Graham suffered from lung disease as well as other health conditions. In addition to his two sons, he’s also survived by his brother, Sam Graham. Graham (third from right) pictured attending the Q Continuum panel at the 18th annual Official Star Trek Convention in 2019 (Picture: Gabe Ginsberg/Getty Images) Shaun of the Dead director Edgar Wright paid homage to Graham on X, saying that he ‘burns up the screen’ in Phantom of the Paradise, which he described as one of his ‘all-time favourite’ films. ‘His role as Beef in Phantom of the Paradise is simply off-the-charts amazing. He’s a constant joy, from his unforgettable line readings to those insane dance moves. It’s a joyously outrageous performance in a film that raises the roof with its sheer energy. If you haven’t yet discovered this solid-gold cult classic, I urge you to pay tribute at the altar of Beef as soon as you can,’ he wrote. Deals of the Day Primark's new £14 co-ord has autumn styling on a budget covered Topman’s new-season collection has arrived and prices start at just £10 An Instagram mattress left me with back pain – this one completely changed my mind From £700 MacBooks to discounted iPhones, the best Apple tech for studentsb Save 25% on red light therapy masks, sauna blankets and sleep gadgets in Bon Charge sale ‘Here’s to you, Gerrit, scene-stealer par excellence. We’re all sending salutations from the other side. Long live Beef!’ Arrow MORE: Barely Breathing singer and Tony-winning composer Duncan Sheik dies aged 56 Arrow MORE: Coronation Street stars pay tribute to ‘brilliant’ Stephanie Cole after death aged 84 Arrow MORE: Ed Sheeran’s cousin says he’s ‘ashamed’ of star in brutal public attack Switched On Get plugged into the week’s must-watch shows, unmissable moments, and expert reviews with Metro TV Editor Sabrina Barr.