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Deaths on January 1

2003Jan, 1

Royce D. Applegate

Royce D. Applegate, American actor and screenwriter (b. 1939)

A Comprehensive Look at the Career and Life of Royce Applegate

Royce Dwayne Applegate (December 25, 1939 – January 1, 2003) was a prolific American actor and screenwriter, recognized for his diverse range of roles across television and film. Born in Midwest City, Oklahoma, he began his career under the billing of Roy Applegate, gradually establishing himself in the entertainment industry.

Notable Television and Film Appearances

Applegate's career spanned several decades, marked by both impactful guest roles and recurring characters. His most widely recognized television role was Chief Petty Officer Manilow Crocker on the first season of the acclaimed science fiction series, seaQuest DSV. Debuting in 1993, this ambitious show, executive produced by Steven Spielberg, provided Applegate with significant screen time and a regular presence as a key crew member aboard the futuristic submarine, endearing him to a broad audience.

The year 1985 proved particularly significant for Applegate, highlighting his versatility across different genres. In the popular comedic film Stir Crazy, starring Gene Wilder and Richard Pryor, he played Deputy Crawford, contributing to the humor of this widely successful prison escape story. That same year, Applegate delivered a remarkably dramatic performance in two pivotal episodes of the highly-rated sitcom Diff'rent Strokes. He portrayed Donald Brown, a distraught father who, driven by the tragic loss of his own son, controversially kidnaps character Sam McKinney. This powerful role showcased Applegate's ability to tackle emotionally complex and darker material, a departure from the typical sitcom fare.

Portraying Historical Figures

Beyond contemporary roles, Applegate also left his mark on historical epics, particularly those focused on the American Civil War. He commendably portrayed Confederate General James L. Kemper in two significant films directed by Ronald F. Maxwell: Gettysburg (1993) and its prequel, Gods and Generals (2003). His depiction of General Kemper, a real-life historical figure who commanded a brigade during the pivotal Pickett's Charge at the Battle of Gettysburg, brought authenticity and depth to these expansive cinematic interpretations of American history.

Tragic Passing

Sadly, Royce Applegate's life came to a premature and tragic end. On New Year's Day, January 1, 2003, just one week after his 63rd birthday, he died in a house fire at his residence in the Hollywood Hills, California.

Frequently Asked Questions About Royce Applegate

Who was Royce Applegate?
Royce Dwayne Applegate was an American actor and screenwriter, known for his roles in television shows like seaQuest DSV and films such as Stir Crazy, Gettysburg, and Gods and Generals.
What was Royce Applegate's most visible role?
His most visible role was Chief Petty Officer Manilow Crocker in the first season of the 1990s science fiction series seaQuest DSV.
Did Royce Applegate play any historical figures?
Yes, he notably portrayed Confederate General James L. Kemper in the Civil War films Gettysburg (1993) and Gods and Generals (2003).
How did Royce Applegate die?
Royce Applegate tragically died on January 1, 2003, in a house fire at his Hollywood Hills home, just a week after his 63rd birthday.
Was Royce Applegate also a screenwriter?
Yes, in addition to his acting career, Royce Applegate was also credited as a screenwriter.

References

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Events on 2003

  • 17Mar

    2003 invasion of Iraq

    Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs Robin Cook, resigns from the British Cabinet in disagreement with government plans for the 2003 invasion of Iraq.
  • 7Apr

    Saddam Hussein

    U.S. troops capture Baghdad; Saddam Hussein's regime falls two days later.
  • 27Aug

    North Korea and weapons of mass destruction

    The first six-party talks, involving South and North Korea, the United States, China, Japan and Russia, convene to find a peaceful resolution to the security concerns of the North Korean nuclear weapons program.
  • 12Sep

    Pan Am Flight 103

    The United Nations lifts sanctions against Libya after that country agreed to accept responsibility and recompense the families of victims in the 1988 bombing of Pan Am Flight 103.
  • 12Nov

    2003 invasion of Iraq

    Iraq War: In Nasiriyah, Iraq, at least 23 people, among them the first Italian casualties of the 2003 invasion of Iraq, are killed in a suicide bomb attack on an Italian police base.