Reflecting on the Lives of 'Falcon Crest' Stars We've Lost

'Falcon Crest' was an American television series that aired from 1981 to 1990. It ran for nine seasons and comprised a total of 227 episodes. Unfortunately, some of the show's stars are no longer with us today; they have since passed away.

César Julio Romero, Jr. assumed the role of "Peter Stavros," the Greek tycoon and third husband of "Angela Channing" in the TV series 'Falcon Crest.' His character was introduced to salvage the company from impending ruin. Notably, Cesar Romero, a Hollywood legend, portrayed "Peter Stavros" before achieving further fame in the 1960s as the "Joker" in the series 'Batman.' Tragically, Cesar Romero passed away on January 1, 1994, at the age of 86 due to complications arising from bronchitis and pneumonia.

Lana Turner made her mark in the first and second seasons of 'Falcon Crest,' appearing in six episodes as "Jacqueline Perrault," a portrayal of "Angela Channing" as a menacing diva. This depiction fueled intense animosity between the characters. Lana Turner, a Hollywood luminary who gained prominence in the 1940s, faced subsequent personal challenges and controversies. Following her guest appearance on "Falcon Crest," she largely retreated from the public eye and, sadly, passed away on June 29, 1995, at the age of 74 due to cancer.

In Season 6 of 'Falcon Crest,' "Angela", portrayed by Jane Wyman, forms an alliance with the wealthy and deceitful businessman "Roland Saunders" to eliminate "Richard Channing." However, "Saunders" harbors a secondary motive. Despite undergoing treatment for prostate cancer, actor Robert Stack passed away at the age of 84 in 2003 due to heart failure.

Jane Wyman experienced a nearly two-decade hiatus from acting before she was presented with the opportunity to portray the commanding character "Angela Channing" in the television series 'Falcon Crest.' Wyman remained an integral part of the show throughout its entire duration, aside from a limited number of episodes in seasons 5 and 9 due to health-related concerns. Tragically, Jane Wyman peacefully passed away in her sleep on September 10, 2007, at the age of 90.

Roscoe Lee Browne portrayed the character "Rosemont" in "Falcon Crest." Known for his unique and recognizable voice, Browne was an accomplished actor who graced both the big and small screens. His credits include notable works like 'Law & Order' and
'Spider-Man.'

Mel Ferrer skillfully portrayed "Philip Erikson," a cunning lawyer who represented and courted "Angela Channing" throughout the initial three seasons of 'Falcon Crest.' In this role, he provided unwavering support during the investigation into the demise of her brother "Jason," discreetly aiding her in maintaining her familial dominance. Beyond his acting prowess, Ferrer was recognized as a producer, notably collaborating with Audrey Hepburn. Interestingly, he and Audrey Hepburn were wed from 1954 to 1968, a union that brought forth a son. Tragically, Mel Ferrer passed away on June 2, 2008, at the age of 90, in Santa Barbara, California.

Chao-Lis Chi's responsibilities primarily revolved around his portrayal of a chauffeur in the series, but on occasion, he would also become an accomplice in "Angela Channing's" nefarious schemes. He consistently fulfilled this role throughout all nine seasons of 'Falcon Crest.' Beyond his television work, he also made appearances in diverse feature films and other television shows. Regrettably, Chi's life journey came to an end on October 16, 2010, at the age of 83, at his residence in Granada Hills, California.

Simon Charles Pendered MacCorkindale played "Greg Reardon," who handled legal matters for "Angela Channing" in the show. He bravely battled colon cancer and passed away on October 14, 2010, at 58 years old. Interestingly, he died just two days before his 'Falcon Crest' co-star Chao-Li Chi.

Cliff Robertson made a guest appearance on 'Falcon Crest.' In the show, he portrayed the cousin of "Chase Gioberti" and was romantically involved with Laura Johnson's character, "Terry Hartford." Despite her controversial history, they wed, and when he tragically died in a plane crash, she inherited his wealth. Cliff Robertson passed away from natural causes on September 10, 2011, just one day after his 88th birthday.