Actor Bo Hopkins dies in Van Nuys at age 84

Bo Hopkins in 2009. | Photo courtesy of aresauburn/Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 2.0)

Relatives and colleagues were mourning Bo Hopkins Sunday after the actor’s family announced his death at the age of 84.

Hopkins died Saturday at Valley Presbyterian Hospital in Van Nuys after suffering a heart attack on May 9, his wife Sian told The Hollywood Reporter.

He was best known for supporting roles in the 1973 film “American Graffiti,” and 1969’s “The Wild Bunch.” He also had recurring roles in the TV shows “Dynasty” and “The Rockford Files” and appeared in many other TV shows in the ’70s and ’80s.

“RIP Bo Hopkins,” actor and director Ron Howard tweeted Sunday. “I acted with Bo and directed him as well. He was an honest and authentic actor and more importantly a terrific guy who spoke the truth with kindness and integrity. Those of us who knew Bo can count ourselves lucky.”

Hopkins, who was a native of South Carolina, was born William Hopkins but he changed his first name to Bo after he played a character named Bo in his first off-Broadway play, “Bus Stop.”

He appeared in more than 100 film and television roles.

His family tweeted the news of his death, adding: “It is with great sadness that we announce that Bo has passed away. Bo loved hearing from his fans from around the world and although he was unable to respond to every email over the last few years, he appreciated hearing from each and every one of you.”

Hopkins is survived by his wife of 33 years and two children.

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