With memorable turns in David Lynch’s Blue Velvet and Dune, Dean Stockwell is a veteran of literally hundreds of films and TV shows.
Apart from starring in the revamped Battlestar Galactica series, probably his most memorable TV role was playing Al, Scott Bakula’s cigar smoking sidekick in Quantum Leap.
Reasons for Dean Stockwell’s Awesomeness:
Come on now, who didn’t like Quantum Leap?
He is starring in a soon to be released film adaptation of HP Lovecraft’s The Dunwich Horror. Coincidentally, he also starred in the cheesy 1970 version.
The Langoliers - A prime example of ‘so bad its good’ fare…TV miniseries based on Stephen King’s bizarre short story laden with dodgy special effects and worse acting. Amazingly, Stockwell still maintains his dignity throughout.
Blue Velvet - his eerie karaoke rendition of Roy Orbison’s ‘In Dreams’ is still haunting.
Had a cameo in the cringe-worthy Aussie Star Wars rip-off, The Time Guardian. Would probably like to forget about that one.
Inspired good pal Neil Young to title his 1970 album ‘After the Goldrush’.
Features in Gnarls Barkley video clip for ‘Smiley Faces’.
He holds an instructor rank in Modern Arnis - a Filipino martial art.
MEMORABLE QUOTES
Dr Yueh - Dune: “I wish to kill a man... not you, my dear Duke, but the Baron.... You were dead already... but you will be close to the Baron before you die. You will be tied and drugged, but you can still attack. You can still attack!
When you see the Baron you will have a new poison gas tooth. He will want you close so he can gloat over you. One bite on this tooth and a strong exhale...”
Bob Jenkins - The Langoliers: “We know what happens to today when it becomes yesterday. It waits for them - the timekeepers of eternity, always following behind, cleaning up the mess in the most efficient way possible: by eating it!”
Ben - Blue Velvet: “Here’s to your f**k.”