There are those actors that may not be your biggest heroes on screen, but know when you see their names in the credits, you won’t be disappointed. In fact, you know the film just got a little better because you know they are going to help entertain you. Fred Ward was one of those actors.

The first film that I remember seeing him in, or at least that made an impact, was Uncommon Valor (1983), which I had only seen because it was playing at the theater I worked at. But with a great cast like Gene Hackman, Tim Thomerson, Reb Brown, and a young Patrick Swayze, it was a lot of fun. But two years later, Remo Williams: The Adventure Begins (1985) came out and I just loved that one. I knew of the Destroyer book series but had never read them. But I just enjoyed the hell out of Remo and thought that Ward did a great job in the role. A few more years later, and Ward appeared in one of the best monster films of the ’90s, Tremors (1990). Once again, Ward was able to make audiences relate to an everyday person, even though they lived out in the middle of nowhere.

So, hearing of his passing a few days ago really bummed me out. Such a top-notch actor who always gave a believable performance, no matter what kind of character he played. Our thoughts go out to his friends and family during this difficult time.