Kevin Brophy, the actor renowned for his roles in the TV series “Lucan” and the cult horror film “Hell Night,” has passed away at the age of 70. According to an online obituary, Brophy succumbed to stage 4 cancer on May 11, after a decade-long battle with the disease. He died at his family home in Rancho Santa Fe, California.
Born on November 1, 1953, in Salt Lake City, Utah, Brophy’s family moved to the San Fernando Valley when he was nine. He later attended high school in Del Mar, California. After graduating from the California Institute of the Arts (CalArts) in Valencia, Brophy landed his first professional acting role as the title character in the television series “Lucan,” which aired from 1977 to 1978.
In “Lucan,” Brophy portrayed a young man raised by wolves in the forests of Minnesota. His character, who possessed wolf-like superpowers such as heightened senses and agility, was brought into society at the age of 20. Despite its unique premise, the series lasted only 12 episodes.
Brophy’s film career included notable roles in “The Long Riders” (1980) and the horror classic “Hell Night” (1981). In “Hell Night,” directed by Tom DeSimone, Brophy played Peter Bennett, the president of the Alpha Sigma Rho fraternity, who attempts to scare new pledges by having them stay overnight at the abandoned Garth Manor.
Throughout his career, Brophy made numerous guest appearances on popular television series, including “The Love Boat,” “M*A*S*H,” “Growing Pains,” “The Hardy Boys Mysteries,” and “Hart to Hart.” He also appeared in episodes of “Trapper John,” “Matt Houston,” “Star Trek: Deep Space Nine,” and “JAG.” His film credits extended to roles in “GoodFellas” (1990) and other motion pictures.
In addition to his acting career, Brophy worked for 26 years as a valet at the Hotel Bel-Air in Beverly Hills. He later served as a host at the Luxe Hotel, also in Beverly Hills. Despite his work outside of acting, Brophy remained a beloved figure in the entertainment industry. Quentin Tarantino once praised his lengthy monologue in “Hell Night,” a testament to his enduring impact.
Brophy is survived by his wife, Amy Prettyman Brophy, his mother Carol, his brother John and his wife Wendy, his children Kelly, Michael (Lindsey), Megan, and Ryan, and his grandchildren Jarrah and Saylor. A Celebration of Life service is scheduled for 11 AM on Saturday, June 29, at St. Cyril’s Church in Encino, California.
Kevin Brophy’s legacy in the world of television and film will be remembered by fans and colleagues alike. His contributions to the entertainment industry, from his iconic role in “Lucan” to his memorable performance in “Hell Night,” have left an indelible mark. As his family and friends gather to celebrate his life, they will undoubtedly reflect on the joy and talent he brought to the screen.
