Cast / Friends Respond to Angus Scrimm's Passing

The world has been responding today to the passing of our dear Angus Scrimm. There's so much hurt and sadness, but they say a sorrow shared is a sorrow halved. In that case, there are so many of us missing him that can warm ourselves by our own memories and the stories of others. Culled from social media, here are some remembrances from the cast of Phantasm and others who knew him.

Don Coscarelli: Angus Scrimm passed away peacefully tonight surrounded by his friends and loved ones. He was 89 years old. His performance as the Tall Man is a towering achievement in horror film history. He was the last in a long line of classic horror movie stars. Angus was a terrific actor and an even better friend. He will be missed.

A. Michael Baldwin: What a very sad day this has been. Angus was a true and loyal friend and was right by my side during some of the harshest and most difficult times. I will never forget it. Professionally, he was a keenly generous actor and he always made those around him look good. Our collaborations were always fun and funny; open and honest; serious and challenging in the best of ways. I always believed that we complimented each other well on screen and I remain in his debt for that too. He was kind, thoughtful, and charming. He also wrote hilarious letters. In short, Angus was a class act and I will miss him very much.

Reggie and Gigi Bannister: We are saddened to confirm that our dear friend, colleague and Phantasm patriarch Angus Scrimm passed away. Our hearts are heavy. We cannot say more it is beyond words.

David Hartman: I woke up in my hospital bed 10 minutes ago, while I'm fighting a super bug, and checked my phone to see this horrible news. I have no words. He was an amazing actor and a kind soul who accepted me into the Phantasm world. I first met Angus on the set of "incident on and off a mountain road" and was amazed by his ability to suck you into a scene with both his character and personality. Then having the Tall Man on my couch to go over the script for Ravager was exhilarating, daunting, scary and where I first got to know the man and see him for his professionalism and his kindness. 
However, with all the Ravager and horror movie memories I have working with this great man, my fondest will always be talking about our love for pastries. 
We will miss you. Thank you for allowing a Phan to enter your red world.

Samantha Phillips: Rest in Peace my dear friend Angus Scrimm aka Rory Guy aka The Tall Man from all the Phantasm films (and so much more). This man was a prime example of "playing against type". Just look at his face. He was a gentle person, and a gentleman through and through. He was always so happy to hear from me, or see me, and with the utmost genuine interest in everything that I was doing. He was continually proud, and encouraging, as if he always knew I'd chase and achieve my dreams. Angus was one of a kind. A throwback to an era of film and entertainment that is going fast, but never forgotten. Like this guy. No one will ever forget the man that was Rory, and the film villain that was Angus. If you knew either one, you were very very lucky. I will miss you, you handsome man, you. And we will always be linked on film forever -- We were one-and-the-same. Alchemy and the Tall Man forever.

Bruce Campbell: Angus Scrimm. Class act. Soft spoken. Old school. Honored to work with him. Credit to his craft. Safe passage.

Ron Perlman: Sweet, gentle cultured American Artist. Got to call him friend and bask in his glow….

Bill Thornbury: Last night a wonderful actor and dear friend passed away. I will miss you, Rory, aka Mr. Angus Scrimm. Happy trails to you. Until we meet again.

Kathy Lester: How very lucky I was to know you, dear heart. Love you 

Glass Eye Pix: Today brings us the sad news that our good friend and collaborator, Angus Scrimm, has passed away. It's hard to find the words to describe the loss we feel. As anyone who knew Angus will attest, he was one hell of a gentleman- intelligent, insightful, kind and warm, Angus could warm up a winter's day with his always cheery disposition. Anytime Angus joined us beyond the pale, he'd show up, thoughtful gifts in hand, and ready for work. He loved his work and he truly loved and gave time to all of his fans. A consummate professional and a wildly talented journeyman, we feel his loss today. His last words to Glenn: "Bon voyage, Glenn. As the Thais say, "Pye dee, mah dee." (Go good, cm back good.) -- Angus" Bon Voyage, Angus. You are missed and you will always be remembered with warmth and love.