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‘Maniac Cop’ Star Robert Z’Dar Passed Away
Sad news via PNJ that actor Robert Z’Dar, the massive man with the gigantic chin best known for the cult film series Maniac Cop, died Monday night in Pensacola after being hospitalized when he came to town to appear at Pensacon, according to his long-time manager and friend Jim Decker.
Born Robert J. Zdarsky, the 6-foot-2 actor was featured in more than 121 films, including cult classics like the first three Maniac Cop films, Soultaker, The Final Sanction and Samurai Cop (the sequel to which Z’Dar had been set to join immediately after Pensacon). He also enjoyed roles in mainstream hits such as “Tango & Cash” and TV roles on “Growing Pains” and the 1990 series “The Flash.”
Instantly recognizable for his large face and jutting jaw, his fanbase grew when two of his films, Soultaker and Future War, were lampooned on “Mystery Science Theater 3000.” A staple on the convention scene, he appeared at both of Pensacon’s shows.
Decker said Z’Dar was hospitalized after suffering chest pains during Pensacon, and was on the mend before going into cardiac arrest Monday night.
“We talked every day,” Decker said. “We’ve been together through thick and thin. He was the first actor I took on in my career as an agent. We spent many weekends on the road together and a lot of time enjoying each other’s company. I miss him dearly.”
Decker said that Z’Dar, who was 64, is survived by a brother, Billy Zdarsky, and a nephew, Matthew. He said those who would like to send condolences could do so through his email, esotericking@gmail.com.
All of us here at Bloody Disgusting are deeply sad to learn that The Blob director Chuck Russell has passed away at 74 years old.
Russell’s career began with his directorial debut, 1987’s A Nightmare on Elm Street 3: Dream Warriors.
The multihyphenate film director, screenwriter, and producer is best known for helming 1994 comedy The Mask starring Jim Carrey, Arnold Schwarzenegger actioner Eraser, and adventure spinoff The Scorpion King. The latter served as the first leading role for Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson.
The filmmaker left an indelible mark on horror with his ANOES sequel, 1988’s The Blob, and 2000’s Bless the Child.
Russell’s final film credit is 2024’s Witchboard remake starring Madison Iseman (I Know What You Did Last Summer), Aaron Dominguez (Only Murders in the Building), and Jamie Campbell Bower (“Stranger Things”).
It marked Russell’s return to horror after a lengthy hiatus, and he shared sequel hopes to Bloody Disgusting in an interview ahead of the remake’s release: “I got to design the board with real mystical symbols and things that I know represent good and evil, and where that board takes us if the audiences respond to the film, and I hope they will; I know it’s out there for you guys, but the sequel is a world we’ll get to go a little further. That’s sure the intention.”
He also recently expressed interest in returning to the franchise that began his career.
TMZ notes that Russell passed away at his San Diego-area home.
We send our deepest condolences to Chuck Russell’s family, friends, and fans.
Director, Co-Writer & Producer Chuck Russell behind the scenes of the horror film, WITCHBOARD. Photo courtesy of The Avenue and Atlas Distribution
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