Jonathan Frid Died Last Saturday – Dark Shadows Star Was 87

A new film version of "Dark Shadows" will open soon. Ironically, the actor who originated the roll of vampire Barnabas Collins, Jonathan Frid, passed  away on April 14th at the age of 87.

If  you are a Baby Boomer, growing up in the mid 60's, you might have been a fan of the cult classic ABC gothic horror soap opera, Dark Shadows. I know I was. We would run as soon as we got off of the school bus to plop down in front of our old Philco black and white TV to catch up with the adventures of the Collins family who lived at Collinwood Mansion in the New England town of Collinsport. It had ghosts, witches, werewolves, and of course the 200 year old vampire Barnabas Collins.  Cursed by a witch whose love he spurned, Barnabas was chained in a coffin and buried, only to be freed in the 1960's. At first a villain, Barnabas become the hero of the series.

Canadian actor Johnathan Frid found his penultimate roll in Barnabas. He never took his fame too seriously, just being content to be a working actor. He was appreciated by his many fans up to his passing. His portrayal set a new vampire standard that can be seen today in the "Twilight" films and "True Blood" TV series. A vampire with a heart and soul.

Rest in peace Mr. Frid.

Visit jonathanfrid.com here.