Roy Scheider, 75, Jaws Star’s Battle with Cancer and Final Days
Roy Scheider’s passing at the age of 75 marked the end of an iconic Hollywood career. Best known for his role in Jaws, the beloved actor left behind a legacy of unforgettable performances.
A Versatile and Acclaimed Actor
Roy Scheider was born on November 10, 1932, in Orange, New Jersey. He initially pursued a career in boxing before turning his attention to acting. His breakout role came in 1971’s The French Connection, where he played Detective “Cloudy” Russo, a performance that earned him an Academy Award nomination.
However, he is best remembered for portraying Chief Martin Brody in the 1975 thriller Jaws, one of the most influential films in cinema history. His famous line, “You’re gonna need a bigger boat,” remains an iconic moment in movie history. He further cemented his status as a Hollywood legend with his role as Joe Gideon in All That Jazz, which earned him another Oscar nomination.
Throughout his career, Scheider took on a variety of roles, including in Marathon Man, 2010: The Year We Make Contact, and the television series SeaQuest DSV. His ability to play both intense and complex characters made him a highly respected actor in the industry.
The Death of Roy Scheider
Scheider’s later years were marked by a battle with cancer. In 2004, he was diagnosed with multiple myeloma, a form of blood cancer that affects plasma cells.
In June 2005, he underwent a bone marrow transplant in an effort to combat the disease. Despite treatment, his condition worsened over time.
On February 10, 2008, Scheider passed away at the age of 75 at the University of Arkansas Medical Sciences Hospital in Little Rock, Arkansas. His death was attributed to complications from multiple myeloma.
Scheider left behind a lasting impact on the film industry, remembered for his gripping performances and dedication to his craft.
Quotes
"“The important thing is to do good work, no matter what medium you do it in.”