Distinguished Hollywood actor, Randal Malone, died on July 28, 2024, at the Valley Presbyterian Hospital in Van Nuys, California. His family confirmed that the 66-year-old had been fighting kidney disease.
Malone was born on May 29, 1958, in Owensboro, Kentucky. His childhood showed early signs of an interest in the world of entertainment. His acting career started with an uncredited minor role in “The Marshall of Windy Hollow” (1972), where he shared the screen with Western film icons Ken Maynard and Tex Ritter.
Upon earning a theater degree from Murray State University, Malone began his stage career with a debut in the production of “Annie Get Your Gun.” This initial recognition led him to Los Angeles, California, where he made a name for himself in the entertainment industry.
Malone’s major break came in the 1990s, when he joined MTV’s dating show “Singled Out.” As “Film Star Randal Malone,” he won over audiences by playing a male equivalent of Norma Desmond from “Sunset Boulevard.” The show’s host, Chris Hardwick, noted that Malone’s character was one of the most amusing aspects of the show.
Away from television, Malone had a successful career in low-budget films, particularly in the horror genre. His filmography includes roles in “The Triggerman” (1997), “Vampire Femmes” (1999), and “Dahmer vs. Gacy” (2010). His passion for acting was vivid when he stated, “Being given the opportunity to act in a film is one of the greatest blessings. I savor every chance I get to play such a game.”
Malone was also actively involved in philanthropy within Hollywood. Since 2004, he served as president of the Southern California Motion Picture Council, making significant contributions to its charitable activities. He assisted the Motion Picture and TV Fund and collaborated with Johnny Grant, often dubbed as the “Mayor of Hollywood,” to secure stars on the Hollywood Walk of Fame.
Malone led a vibrant personal life, maintaining friendships with Hollywood’s Golden Age icons such as Lucille Ball and Ann Miller. His extensive collection of Hollywood memorabilia, featuring rare and candid photos of reclusive stars, demonstrated his love for the history of the industry. “I know more than any of the other so-called ‘experts’ about old Hollywood because I didn’t read or write about it; I lived it,” Malone once remarked.
Malone leaves behind his mother, Shirley; his brothers, Donald and James; his sister, Allison; and his partner of 38 years, Michael Schwibs. Plans are underway for a memorial service to celebrate his life and contributions.
