Whitney Rydbeck, an esteemed actor recognized for his roles in “Friday the 13th Part VI: Jason Lives” and as the crash test dummy “Larry,” died at 79 years old on Monday, July 15, 2024. He succumbed due to complications from prostate cancer while in hospice care in Chatsworth, California.
Tommy McLoughlin, the director of the “Friday the 13th” series’ sixth installment, announced Rydbeck’s passing. “We lost not only a truly funny comedian and actor … but one of the most good-hearted human beings I’ve ever known,” McLoughlin shared in an Instagram tribute.
Rydbeck was born on March 13, 1945, in Los Angeles, California. He attended Pasadena High School and Pasadena City College and then studied at Cal State Fullerton. He initially pursued theater studies and also performed as a mime before transitioning into acting.
His acting career started in 1970 with an episode of “Nanny and the Professor.” Throughout the following decade, he made appearances in popular TV shows such as “The Brady Bunch,” “M*A*S*H,” and “Monster Squad.”
In the 1986 horror movie “Friday the 13th Part VI: Jason Lives,” Rydbeck played Roy, a paintball player who becomes one of Jason Voorhees’ victims. He also garnered attention for his role as a crash test dummy named “Larry” in 1980s seat belt safety public service announcements. Using simulated car crashes these PSAs underscored the significant consequences of neglecting to wear seat belts and influenced public consciousness. One of Rydbeck’s original PSA costumes is displayed in the Smithsonian.
Throughout the ’80s and ’90s, Rydbeck continued to feature in several TV shows and movies, including “7th Heaven,” “Star Trek: The Next Generation,” and “Murder, She Wrote.” After playing a part in the 2007 short film “The Oates’ Valor,” he retired from acting and reportedly became a drama teacher at Pasadena City College later in life.
Rydbeck’s role as Roy in “Friday the 13th Part VI: Jason Lives” is often recalled as one of his most notable performances, where he managed to blend humor and horror, leaving a lasting impression on fans.
His acting career also included memorable guest roles in various television series. He made appearances in popular shows like “Scrubs,” “3rd Rock from the Sun,” and “Living Single.”
Whitney Rydbeck’s death signifies the conclusion of a distinguished career, but his legacy lives on through his significant contributions both on and off the screen. His talent for bringing characters to life, his commitment to significant causes, and his dedication to teaching made him a respected figure in the entertainment industry and beyond.
Rydbeck is survived by his long-time partner, Claire.
