Peter Jason, Character Actor Known for 'Deadwood' and '48 Hrs.,' Dies at 80
Peter Jason, a character actor with notable roles in "Deadwood," "48 Hrs." and "Prince of Darkness," passed away at his West Hollywood home on Thursday. He was 80 years old.
Tribesmen Pictures confirmed Jason's death, citing cancer as the cause. "Halloween" director John Carpenter paid tribute to his friend, stating, "He was a dear friend, and I'll miss him terribly."
Matthew Asner, son of the late Edward Asner, also expressed condolences. "The supremely talented and kind Peter Jason has left the set," Asner wrote on Facebook. "What a loss. He was truly one of the sweetest people on the planet."
Jason debuted in Howard Hawks' Western "Rio Lobo" and went on to star in "Impulse," "Brewster's Millions," "They Live," and "Alien Nation." He worked closely with directors Frank Marshall, Walter Hill, and Carpenter. Recently, he appeared in the Coen brothers' "Hail, Caesar!" and reprised his "Deadwood" role in "Deadwood: The Movie."
On television, Jason guest-starred in "Gunsmoke," "Murder, She Wrote," "The Golden Girls," "Amazing Stories," and "Mad Men."
He is survived by his wife, Eileen Rosaly, and two children, Robin and Andrew.