Kenneth McMillan

Kenneth McMillan (July 2, 1932 – January 8, 1989) was an esteemed American actor who left a remarkable footprint in the entertainment industry. Pickled as a tough character, McMillan's rough image often saw him depict gruff, hostile, and unfriendly characters. Besides this stereotypical casting, he depicted lighter comic roles from time to time, showcasing his ability to touch the audience's softer sensibilities. He is widely recognized for his performances as Jack Doyle in 'Rhoda' (1977–1978), and as Baron Vladimir Harkonnen in David Lynch's 'Dune'. Born in Brooklyn, the son of Margaret and Harry McMillan, Kenneth McMillan pursued his acting career at age 30, proving that it's never too late to chase your dreams. Prior to embarking on his illustrious acting journey, McMillan juggled various roles at Gimbels Department Store, starting as a salesman and elevating to a floor superintendent managing three floors. Upon recognition of his passion for acting, McMillan graced acting lessons from esteemed mentors Uta Hagen and Irene Dailey.

Kenneth McMillan sets his first foot in the acting world at age 41, initiating with a small role in Sidney Lumet's police drama 'Serpico'. McMillan’s versatile acting prowess saw him depict a broad spectrum of characters, from a wily safe cracker in the ‘Pope of Greenwich Village’ to a racist fire chief in ‘Ragtime’. His performances extended to grotesque characters such as Baron Vladimir Harkonnen in Dune as well as heart-wrenching performances such as William Hurt's bitter paraplegic father in 'Eyewitness'. McMillan's acting legacy wasn't solely limited to films. His comedic flair was brilliantly depicted in his role as the baseball club manager in 'Blue Skies Again'. He frequently lit up the small screen too, with numerous prominent TV shows including Dark Shadows, Ryan's Hope, Kojak, Starsky & Hutch, among others. McMillan’s contributions to the stage did not go unnoticed as well. He frequented performances at the New York Shakespeare Festival and won an Obie for his phenomenal acting in the Off-Broadway play 'Weekends Like Other People'. Sadly, McMillan's glittering career was put to rest when he succumbed to liver disease at the age of 56.