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“Cool Hand Luke” Actor, George Kennedy, Dies At 91

Cool Hand Luke actor George Kennedy died on Sunday of natural causes. He was 91. George Kennedy was most well-known for his role in Cool Hand Luke. He played alongside Paul Newman (Luke) as NewmanR...
“Cool Hand Luke” Actor, George Kennedy, Dies At 91
Written by Lacy Langley
  • Cool Hand Luke actor George Kennedy died on Sunday of natural causes. He was 91.

    George Kennedy was most well-known for his role in Cool Hand Luke. He played alongside Paul Newman (Luke) as Newman’s nemesis-turned-follower in the iconic 1967 film.

    While George Kennedy is most recognized for his role as Dragline in Cool Hand Luke, he once said his favorite role was in Charade.

    Charade was made in 1963 and starred Kennedy, Cary Grant, James Coburn, Walter Matthau and Audrey Hepburn.

    The film followed the group as they sought to find the $250,000 they thought was left behind by Hepburn’s dead husband.

    He once said of the film, “It had Cary Grant, Audrey Hepburn, music by Henry Mancini; it was shot entirely in Paris. I have nothing but wonderful memories.”

    The Cool Hand Luke star’s grandson, Cory Schenkel, announced his death via Facebook. The post read, in part, “For 14 years I took care of my grandparents. I have traveled on many business trips and movie shoots with my grandpa.”

    The last year and a half has been quite the challenge. I have had many ups and downs. I am not looking for pity; this is…

    Posted by Cory Schenkel on Sunday, February 28, 2016

    He continued, “I have created so many great memories and I will enjoy them for life. While I am extremely sad that they are both gone (my grandma in September 14 and my grandpa this morning) I am grateful for the life, memories, and knowledge they shared with me.”

    Such a sweet tribute for the star of Cool Hand Luke, the Naked Gun series and many, many others.

    Is Cool Hand Luke your favorite George Kennedy film or one of his many others?

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