He was a Grand Master among actors.  His extraordinary talents at rendering the classics, especially Moliere and Shakespeare, were characterized by a fierce intelligence, and an extraordinary technique, a perfect sense of timing and vocal inflection, and a blazing wit, which enabled him to convey the full depth and emotional range of whatever character he inhabited.  He was truly one of the greatest actors of his generation, and he was a warm and compassionate person.

I first met Brian through close mutual friends: Juliet Mills and Maxwell Caulfield.   I had followed his work for years, and was thrilled and honored to be able to share a meal with him.

But it was his inimitable performances as the title role in Timon of Athens. or Macready in Richard Nelson’s Two Shakespearean Actors, or his brilliant turn in Moliere’s School for Wives that will live in my memory forever.  Brian was a great inspiration to me, and I am so grateful that I was able to know him and experience his magnificent gifts.  Thank you, Brian, for sharing your genius with all of us.