David Carradine - 72 - remebered

To hear of the death of anyone that you know is always a tragedy. There is always sadness in knowing someone you saw will never be seen again. When that person is an entertainer, there is still that same feeling even though we don’t truly know that person. Such is the case with David Carradine.



David Carradine, born John Arthur Carradine, was 72 years old. That is a full life for anyone. Yet in watching him in movies, commercials and hearing his voice in various media, you just thought he was far younger. He was someone that you would never have thought had died, let alone killed himself.

In fact I have grave reservations about the circumstances of his death. It seems incredibly odd to me that a 72 year old man, that was seemingly in good health, had success in his profession, and was well-respected, would suddenly kill himself. Even is his fame and success are not factored in, it is rare to hear of someone of that age committing suicide while still in good health. Even more rare when the person in question is actively involved in their job at the time. hopefully there will be a real and informative investigation by the Thai police, but I doubt it.

But putting aside my doubts of the declared suicide, David Carridine was quite an actor. He was in over 100 films, had multiple television commercial credits, and was even involved with kids cartoons and television programs.

The range of work includes popular favorites like: Charmed, Danny Phantom, Death Race 2000 (which was remade starring Jason Statham), King of the Hill, Cannonball, Kung Fu, Kill Bill, Alias, Crank: High Voltage, and my favorite of his work – Circle of Iron.

In total David Carridine was in 100 films over 45 years. He was nominated for 4 Golden Globes, and an Emmy throughout his career, winning the National Board of Review Award for Best Actor. He has numerous memorable characters and leading roles. He normally portrayed an image of calm thoughtful action – even for his bad guy roles.

And I should mention his passion for the martial arts. Inspired by his very popular 1970’s television show Kung Fu, Carradine had become an avid proponent of martial arts. He became accomplished in Tai chi and Qi Gong.

Overall the man was diversified and unique. He has a fan base from children today going back to the 70’s. He was an entertainer who was more concerned about working than personal fame. And his loss is shocking both in the manner and the fact it was so unexpected.

My condolences to the Carradine family, and friends.