Whitney Rydbeck, a renowned actor best known for his roles in “Friday the 13th Part VI: Jason Lives” and the PSA character “Larry,” the crash test dummy, has passed away at the age of 79. Rydbeck died on Monday, July 22, 2024, due to complications from prostate cancer while under hospice care in Chatsworth, California.
Tommy McLoughlin, the director of the sixth installment of the “Friday the 13th” series, confirmed Rydbeck’s death. “We lost not only a truly funny comedian and actor … but one of the most good-hearted human beings I’ve ever known,” McLoughlin wrote in a tribute on Instagram.
Born on March 13, 1945, in Los Angeles, Rydbeck attended Pasadena High School and Pasadena City College before furthering his education at Cal State Fullerton. Initially pursuing theater studies, he also worked as a mime before venturing into acting.
Rydbeck’s acting career began in 1970 with an episode of “Nanny and the Professor.” Over the next decade, he appeared in popular shows such as “The Brady Bunch,” “MAS*H,” and “Monster Squad.”
In the 1986 horror film “Friday the 13th Part VI: Jason Lives,” Rydbeck portrayed Roy, a paintball soldier who becomes one of Jason Voorhees’ victims. He also gained recognition for his role as a crash test dummy named “Larry” in seat belt safety public service announcements during the 1980s. These PSAs highlighted the severe consequences of not wearing seat belts in simulated car accidents and impacted public awareness. One of Rydbeck’s original PSA outfits ended up in the Smithsonian.
Throughout the 1980s and 1990s, Rydbeck continued to appear in various shows and films, including “7th Heaven,” “Star Trek: The Next Generation,” and “Murder, She Wrote.” He retired from acting after his role in the 2007 short film “The Oates’ Valor” and reportedly served as a drama teacher at Pasadena City College in his later years.
One of Rydbeck’s most memorable roles was in the horror genre, which is often an unexpected place to find genuine heart and talent. His portrayal of Roy in “Friday the 13th Part VI: Jason Lives” remains a standout, blending humor and horror in a way that resonated with fans.
Rydbeck’s career also included notable guest appearances in various television series. He appeared in beloved shows such as “Scrubs,” “3rd Rock from the Sun,” and “Living Single.”
Whitney Rydbeck’s passing marks the end of a remarkable career, but his legacy will continue through the countless lives he touched, both on and off the screen. His ability to bring characters to life, commitment to important causes, and dedication to teaching made him a beloved figure in the entertainment industry and beyond.
Rydbeck leaves behind his beloved long-time partner, Claire.