Remembering the famous character actor John Saxon on his 89th birthday
During his 60 years career span, Saxon specialized in roles where he often played law enforcement officials, police officers or detectives, in action and horror movies including “A Nightmare on Elm Street” and “Enter the Dragon”
Remembering the famous character actor John Saxon on his 89th birthday
John Saxon, born Carmine Orrico on August 5, 1936, in Brooklyn, New York, was the son of Italian immigrants Antonio and Anna Orrico. Growing up in a working-class neighborhood, Saxon was exposed to various cultural influences that would later inform his diverse acting roles. He showed an early interest in acting and modeling, attending New Utrecht High School. After graduation, he studied acting at the Stella Adler Studio of Acting in New York, where he honed his craft and prepared for a career in Hollywood.
Saxon was discovered by talent agent Henry Willson, who saw potential in the young actor and signed him to a contract with Universal Pictures. Willson suggested the name change to John Saxon, believing it would be more marketable. Saxon’s career began in the mid-1950s, and he quickly made a name for himself with roles in teenage dramas and westerns. His early films included “Running Wild” (1955) and “Rock, Pretty Baby” (1956), which showcased his versatility and good looks.
Saxon’s breakout role came in the 1956 film “The Unguarded Moment,” where he played a troubled high school student. This performance earned him critical acclaim and led to more substantial roles in films like “Cry Tough” (1959) and “The Big Fisherman” (1959). Throughout the 1960s, Saxon expanded his repertoire, appearing in a variety of genres, including horror, science fiction, and action films. He became known for his ability to play both heroic and villainous characters with equal skill.
One of his most notable roles came in the 1973 martial arts classic “Enter the Dragon,” where he starred alongside Bruce Lee. Saxon’s portrayal of Roper, a gambler and martial artist, was well-received and cemented his status as a versatile and reliable actor. This role opened doors for Saxon in the international film market, particularly in Italy, where he starred in several spaghetti westerns and giallo films including Dario Argento’s Tenebrae” in 1982. He also starred in the horror classic “Black Christmas” in 1974.
In the 1980s, Saxon found a new niche in the horror genre, most famously appearing in Wes Craven’s “A Nightmare on Elm Street” (1984) as Lieutenant Donald Thompson, the father of the protagonist. He reprised this role in two sequels, “A Nightmare on Elm Street 3: Dream Warriors” (1987) and “Wes Craven’s New Nightmare” (1994). Saxon’s ability to convey authority and vulnerability made him a standout in these films.
Beyond horror, Saxon continued to work steadily in both film and television. He appeared in popular TV series such as “Dynasty,” “The A-Team,” and “Fantasy Island.” His television work showcased his adaptability and longevity in the entertainment industry. Saxon’s later film roles included appearances in “From Dusk Till Dawn” (1996) and “The Arrival” (1996).
John Saxon’s first marriage to screenwriter Mary Ann Murphy in 1967 ended in divorce in 1979. He then married Elizabeth Saxon in 1987, and they divorced in 1992. His third marriage was to Gloria Martel in 2008, and they remained together until his death. Saxon had one son, Antonio, from his first marriage.
Saxon was an avid martial artist, holding a black belt in karate. His interest in martial arts began during his preparation for “Enter the Dragon” and continued throughout his life. This passion for martial arts contributed to the authenticity and physicality he brought to many of his action roles.
John Saxon passed away on July 25, 2020, in Murfreesboro, Tennessee, at the age of 83. He left behind a legacy of over 200 film and television roles, spanning multiple genres and decades.
Watch John Saxon in a scene from the 1973 cult movie “Enter the Dragon”
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