Actor Barry Morse, who played the relentless Lt. Gerard in the TV series The Fugitive has died in London at age 89. The classically trained, esteemed actor found his greatest role as the Javert-like police officer who obsessively pursues escaped fugitive Dr. Richard Kimball (David Janssen) who was convicted of murdering his wife. The show's final two-part episode drew one of the largest audiences in the history of television. In the climax, Gerard observes Kimball fighting with a one-armed man he always maintained was the real killer. Ironically, it is Gerard who saves Kimball's life with a well-placed rifle shot that sends the villain spiraling to his death from atop a tower. The final scene of the show was refreshingly understated. As Kimball leaves a courthouse after being exonerrated, he is approached by Gerard. The two men eye each other warily, but shake hands silently. Morse drew praise not only for his work in the series, but also for his performances on stage and in numerous other films and TV series including Space 1999. His autobiography, Remembering With Advantages was published by McFarland. For more on his fascinating life and to read tributes from his fans and colleagues, go to his official web site by clicking here.
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