Tom Bower, the actor best known for his roles in Die Hard 2 and The Whartons, has sadly passed away at the age of 86.
The star was found dead in his Los Angeles home last week, with the cause of death yet to be confirmed. Tom had a prolific acting career, often taking on supporting roles in films such as The Bad Lieutenant: Port of Call New Orleans, Undoing, and TV series The West Wing.
Born Ralph Thomas Bower, Tom initially dreamt of becoming a professional baseball player. However, when this didn't materialise, he turned his attention to acting, beginning his studies in 1956.
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He was written of the show for asking for a raise (No credit)Reflecting on his career shift in 2012, he said: "I started acting with more of a purpose while still in high school, and I guess when I chose a senior play over my senior season of baseball, the die was cast."
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Tom secured his role on The Whartons after impressing producers during a guest appearance as a pilot named Rex. He was subsequently offered a full-time role as Curtis Willard, enjoying a successful stint on the show until his character was abruptly written out in 1978.
In 2022, Tom finally revealed the behind-the-scenes drama that led to his departure from the show. He explained: "I asked for a very small raise, so they sent me to Pearl Harbor," he said with a chuckle.
"Then, when they decided to bring the character back, washed up on a shore somewhere - which I didn't think was a great idea anyway - I asked for the same small raise. ... They just cast a different actor."
The star's cause of death is unknown (No credit)Loyal followers of Tom Bower are mourning his departure. On X, previously known as Twitter, a fan expressed: "Tom Bower. Terrific character actor lost his job (twice) as Dr. Curtis Willard on 'The Waltons' when "he asked for a very small raise" was great in 'The Ballad of Gregorio Cortez,' 'Crazy Heart' and 'Lucky Hank' - really, he was great in everything."
Similarly, a heartfelt tribute flowed from Simon Underwood's pen, the screenplay writer remembering: "Farewell Tom Bower. A face you were always glad to see pop up. For good measure, here he is with Frances Sternhagen and Gregg Henry, whilst De Palma does a classic De Palma even-make-the-exposition-great, in Raising Cain."
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