John Kirby, ca. 1950 – 2026

Actor and acting coach John Kirby, 75, died of ALS on July 15. The son of actor Bruce Kirby and brother of actor Bruno Kirby, John had small roles on TV in Maude, Sanford and Son, The Fall Guy, The Girl Most Likely, Eight Is Enough, Airwolf, and M*A*S*H, and appeared in the films Almost Summer, The Cottonwood, Punchline, and Dracula's Dog. He paid the rent as an acting coach, for such stars as Jim Caviezel, Jeff Bridges, Cameron Diaz, Chrissy Metz, Morris Chestnut, Judith Light, Renée Taylor, and Jordin Sparks. One of his students posted, “You were so much more than an acting coach. You changed all of our lives for the better and left an unforgettable impact on every person who was blessed to know you. During your post-scene notes, you would always say ‘so glad we’re doing this.’” Another added, “His coaching helped many actors deliver unforgettable performances on screen. Few people behind the scenes have influenced so many careers. His story proves that true legends don't always stand in front of the camera.”