‘M*A*S*H’ and ‘Harold and Maude’ Star Dies at 77 – Hollywood Mourns Iconic Actor

Bud Cort, best known for his unforgettable role in the 1971 cult classic Harold and Maude, has passed away at the age of 77. His longtime friend, Dorian Hannaway, confirmed the news to Variety, saying Cort died at his home in Connecticut on Wednesday after battling a long illness.

Born Walter Edward Cox in Rye, New York, Cort first made his mark in Hollywood with a supporting role in Robert Altman’s 1970 comedy M*A*S*H, playing Private Lorenzo Boone. Altman soon cast him in the lead for Brewster McCloud, a quirky story about a young recluse attempting to fly with homemade wings. Though the film received mixed reviews at the time, it has since earned appreciation as a unique and inventive piece of cinema.

Cort’s most iconic performance came in Hal Ashby’s Harold and Maude. He played Harold, a morose young man obsessed with death, who unexpectedly falls in love with Maude, a 79-year-old free spirit portrayed by Ruth Gordon. The film became a cultural touchstone and continues to influence filmmakers and fans alike decades later.

Throughout his career, Cort appeared in a variety of films, including Heat, Dogma, Coyote Ugly, The Life Aquatic With Steve Zissou, and Pollock. He also lent his voice to the computer in Electric Dreams and animated projects like Superman: The Animated Series, Static Shock, and Justice League Unlimited. Cort also co-wrote, starred in, and directed the 1991 film Ted and Venus.

Cort’s career faced a major challenge in 1971 when he was involved in a serious car accident in Hollywood. He collided with an abandoned vehicle on the road and required multiple surgeries, which temporarily disrupted his work in the film industry.

Despite these setbacks, Cort maintained a steady presence in Hollywood, earning the admiration of colleagues and fans for his dedication and unique talent. He is survived by his brothers, sisters, nieces, and nephews, according to Variety.

Bud Cort leaves behind a legacy as a one-of-a-kind actor whose performances continue to resonate. Harold and Maude remains a defining piece of his career, showcasing his ability to bring depth, humor, and humanity to unconventional roles.

Bud Cort’s passing is a profound loss for cinema. He had a rare gift for turning eccentric characters into timeless, relatable figures. His work reminds us that Hollywood isn’t just about fame, it’s about creating art that lasts. What do you think of Bud Cort’s career and his impact on film? Share your thoughts in the comments.