Whitney Rydbeck, known for his role in *Friday the 13th Part VI: Jason Lives*, has passed away at 79 due to prostate cancer complications in Chatsworth, California. Director Tommy McLoughlin confirmed the news, remembering Rydbeck as a talented, kind actor and comedian.
Born in Los Angeles, Rydbeck studied theater at Cal State Fullerton and began acting in 1970. He appeared in shows like *The Brady Bunch* and *MAS*H* and films including *Rocky II* and Spielberg’s *1941*. He gained fame as Roy, the paintball soldier in *Jason Lives*, and as “Larry” the crash test dummy in 1980s seat belt PSAs.
Rydbeck’s career spanned TV and film roles through the 1980s and 1990s, including *Star Trek: The Next Generation* and *7th Heaven*. He retired in 2007 to teach drama at Pasadena City College. His legacy as a beloved actor and compassionate individual will be fondly remembered. May he rest in peace.
