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Character actor Jack Betts, best known for his roles in Spider-Man and spaghetti Western films, has passed away at the age of 96. According to his nephew, Dean Sullivan, Betts died peacefully in his sleep at his home in Los Osos, California, on June 19.
Betts' nephew and a representative for the actor did not immediately respond to requests for comment. However, a statement from the Beverly Hills Playhouse, where Betts was a regular, paid tribute to the late actor. "Our beloved Jack Betts passed away peacefully at home," the post read. "It is a sad day for the BHP as we have enjoyed his presence for so many years. There are actors who credit him with their not giving up because of his encouragement. We were so fortunate to have enjoyed his great spirit, passion, and true dedication to the work."
A Life of Acting and Friendship
Betts was born in New Jersey and moved to Miami with his family at the age of 10. He developed an interest in acting after seeing Laurence Olivier in the 1939 film Wuthering Heights. Betts went on to study theater at the University of Miami and began his career on Broadway, starring in a production of Richard III.
Betts' film career took off in the 1960s, with roles in spaghetti Westerns such as Sugar Coat. He also appeared in several TV shows, including Seinfeld, Frasier, Everybody Loves Raymond, and Friends. Betts' most notable role was as Henry Balkan in Sam Raimi's Spider-Man (2002), opposite Willem Dafoe's Norman Osborn.
Betts was also known for his close friendship with Everybody Loves Raymond actress Doris Roberts, who directed a play written by Betts called Screen Test: Take One. The two often attended events together and lived together until Roberts' death in 2016.
A Legacy of Encouragement and Dedication
Betts is survived by his nephew, nieces Lynee and Gail, and his sister Joan, who turns 100 in November. His family and friends will remember him for his kind spirit and dedication to his craft.
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