One of the greatest actors of his generation, Christopher Plummer was one of my heroes, an endless source of inspiration, especially when it came to playing the classics.  We first met in 1974, at Shepparton Studios in London, working on the film, Conduct Unbecoming. I had fastidiously followed his career prior to that, and I was so excited to be working with him.  He knew that I loved classical theater, and Chris would regale me with stories of his amazing theatrical triumphs.  I especially recall him telling me about his time playing Oedipus The King. 

“Orson Welles enacted my blind Tiresias as if he were Othello, Macbeth and Charles Foster Kane rolled into one. How spoiled could a young Oedipus get?”

A master storyteller, an elegant gentleman, and a genius at interpretation, Christopher Plummer will always be remembered for this enduring charm, his boundless energy, and his extraordinary versatility. Thank you, Christopher for sharing your inimitable talent with all of us.

‘Good night, sweet Prince…and may flights of Angels sing thee to thy rest.’  -Stacy Keach

It was 1967, and I had just arrived in Selma, Alabama to perform in my first film, The Heart Is A Lonely Hunter, when I first had the honor and privilege of meeting Cicely Tyson.  She was instantly and indelibly etched in my memory, as, not only one of the most brilliant actresses of our time, but also as a compassionate, caring, and beautiful woman.

During the filming, we shared some wonderful moments together, exchanging stories about art and politics and music.

“You like Jazz, Stacy?” she asked, one day over our lunch break.  “I love it,” I replied.

“Well, I have a nice surprise for you.”  And that night, as we were shooting a scene in a local alleyway, Cicely walked over to me, accompanied by…oh, my God, is this who I think it is!…

“I’d like you to meet my boyfriend, Miles Davis.”

I couldn’t believe it!  She introduced me to one of my all-time favorite musicians, and I was blown away!  She gave me one of my most cherished memories, for which I am forever grateful.

Thank you Cicely, for your enduring legacy, your gracious charm, and for giving all of us the honor and privilege of sharing your extraordinary beauty and talent. May Heaven’s Blessings be with you, always.