Jan-Michael Vincent Star of ‘Airwolf’ and ‘Hooper’ Dies at Age 74

TMZ reported on March 8, 2019, that actor Jan-Michael Vincent died on Feb. 10 at a hospital in North Carolina after suffering cardiac arrest.  He was 74 years old.

The publication obtained a copy of the actor’s death certificate.  Vincent did not receive an autopsy, and he was cremated.

In 2002, Vincent appeared in the movie “White Boy.”  However, he was best known for his role on the CBS television series “Airwolf.” It was reported that Vincent received $200 thousand an episode, making him the highest paid actor of that time.

In the show, Vincent played Stringfellow Hawke, a helicopter pilot.  Despite the show being a smash hit, it only was on air for 80 episodes and four seasons from Jan. 22, 1984 to Aug. 8, 1987.  The show ended partially due to the actor’s cocaine abuse, which affected his career.

Vincent sat down for an interview with the National Enquirer on Oct. 24, 2o14. There he revealed he suffered from peripheral artery disease and developed a leg infection.  His right leg was amputated in 2012 below his knee due to the disease.

The actor was in the National Guard. While there, he was spotted by a talent scout. He left the Guard and became an actor. The first movie he acted in was in 1967 entitled “The Bandits.” Universal Studies signed him, and he appeared in many shows including “Dragnet.”

In 1978 he starred with Burt Reynolds in the movie “Hooper.” He also appeared in 1981 opposite Kim Basinger in the movie “Hard Country.”

Vincent worked in the industry for three decades and appeared in “Bonanza,” “Lassie,” and “Gunsmoke.”

The actor is survived by his third wife, Patricia Ann. He has one daughter named Amber.

Written by Barbara Sobel

Sources:

TMZ: JAN-MICHAEL VINCENT’AIRWOLF’ STAR DEAD AT 74
Heavy: Jan-Michael Vincent Dead: ‘Airwolf’ Star Dies at 74
ABC: ‘Airwolf’ star Jan-Michael Vincent died after suffering cardiac arrest

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