Rusty Magee, American actor and composer (b. 1955)
Benjamin Rush "Rusty" Magee, born on August 6, 1955, and tragically passed away on February 16, 2003, at the age of 47, was a remarkably versatile and accomplished American talent. He left an indelible mark across various entertainment mediums as a distinguished comedian, a compelling actor, and a prolific composer/lyricist whose creative contributions enriched theatre, television, film, and the commercial advertising landscape.
Early Life and Foundational Talents
Magee's journey into the performing arts was supported by a strong educational background, having graduated from Yale University in 1977. It was during his formative years that he began honing the diverse skills that would define his career, laying the groundwork for his future successes in comedy, acting, and musical composition.
The Accomplished Comedian
As a comedian, Rusty Magee was celebrated for his unique brand of musical comedy, blending witty observations with captivating songs. He was an integral part of "The Proposition," an esteemed improvisational comedy troupe based in Cambridge, Massachusetts, where he sharpened his quick wit and stage presence. Magee frequently graced the stages of renowned comedy clubs in New York City, including Caroline's, The Comic Strip, and The Improv, captivating audiences with his distinctive humor and musical prowess. His comedic performances were often characterized by smart, satirical lyrics delivered with charm and impeccable timing.
The Engaging Actor
Beyond his comedic and musical endeavors, Magee also made significant contributions as an actor. He demonstrated his acting range in various productions, notably appearing in the 1986 film The Imagemaker. Furthermore, he took on an acting role in the film A Night at the Magic Castle, for which he also composed the musical score, showcasing his ability to seamlessly integrate his diverse talents within a single project.
The Prolific Composer and Lyricist
Perhaps one of Rusty Magee's most extensive legacies lies in his work as a composer and lyricist. His compositions spanned a broad spectrum, from enchanting theatrical scores to memorable television themes and ubiquitous commercial jingles.
Theatrical Contributions
Magee's impact on theatre was substantial, particularly in the realm of musical adaptations. He composed the music for:
- The Gift of the Magi: A beloved musical adaptation of O. Henry's classic short story, often performed during the holiday season, with book and lyrics by Randy Courts.
- The Prince and the Pauper: Based on Mark Twain's iconic novel, this musical brought his talent for storytelling through song to a younger audience.
- How the Grinch Stole Christmas! The Musical: While the original songs are by Dr. Seuss and Albert Hague, Magee contributed additional music and lyrics for this popular stage production, enhancing its theatrical appeal.
His theatrical work showcased his ability to craft scores that enriched narratives and resonated deeply with audiences.
Television and Film Scores
Magee's musical talents extended into the worlds of television and film, where he created memorable themes and scores:
- The Late Show with David Letterman: He composed several musical pieces for the iconic late-night program, most notably the catchy and humorous "Stupid Pet Tricks" theme song, which became synonymous with one of the show's most popular segments.
- The Jackie Thomas Show: Magee provided the musical score for this 1992 television series, further demonstrating his versatility in scoring for the small screen.
- A Night at the Magic Castle: In addition to his acting role, he composed the entire score for this film, showcasing his comprehensive artistic involvement.
Commercial Jingles
Rusty Magee was also a highly sought-after composer in the advertising industry, crafting hundreds of memorable jingles for prominent national and international brands. His ability to create catchy, effective musical advertisements made him a valuable asset to Madison Avenue. His work included campaigns for major corporations such as:
- McDonald's
- Coca-Cola
- Budweiser
- AT&T
- Ford
- Pizza Hut
These jingles often became instantly recognizable, contributing significantly to brand recall and consumer engagement.
A Lasting Legacy
Despite his untimely passing from brain cancer at a relatively young age, Benjamin Rush "Rusty" Magee left behind a rich tapestry of creative works that continue to entertain and inspire. His multidisciplinary career exemplifies a rare blend of comedic timing, acting nuance, and musical genius, establishing him as a truly unique figure in American entertainment history. His contributions across theatre, television, film, and commercials underscore his remarkable talent and enduring impact.
Frequently Asked Questions About Rusty Magee
What were Benjamin Rush "Rusty" Magee's main professions? Rusty Magee was primarily known as an accomplished comedian, actor, and a prolific composer/lyricist for various entertainment platforms.
What notable theatre productions did Rusty Magee compose for? He composed music for popular musicals such as The Gift of the Magi, The Prince and the Pauper, and contributed additional songs to How the Grinch Stole Christmas! The Musical.
Did Rusty Magee work on any famous television shows? Yes, he famously composed the "Stupid Pet Tricks" theme song for The Late Show with David Letterman and scored The Jackie Thomas Show.
For which major brands did Rusty Magee write commercial jingles? Magee wrote hundreds of jingles for prominent companies, including McDonald's, Coca-Cola, Budweiser, AT&T, and Ford.
How old was Rusty Magee when he passed away? Benjamin Rush "Rusty" Magee passed away on February 16, 2003, at the age of 47.