Bob Dorian, Actor and Beloved AMC Classic Movie Host, Dies at 85

1202 June 26, 2019 | by Cheryl Kahla

Bob Dorian was most famously known as the first prime-time host of AMC. He was also a stage magician, known as "The Amazing Dorian."

As reported by Hollywood Reporter, Dorian's family announced today that the actor and host passed away at the age of 85 earlier this month.

No cause of death was given. Dorian is survived by Jane, his wife of 65 years, as well as his three daughters and two grandchildren.

Dorian presented more than 10 000 classic films on the American Movie Classics (AMC) Channel. He also appeared in eight films and several stage productions.

He began his career at the tender age of 14 and worked as a stand-up comedian before joining the New York jazz group, "Four Dimensions."

His first role was uncredited – as "person on recorder" in the 1981 film, "Evil Dead." Incidentally, his last film appearance was as the voice of Professor Knowby in the 2013 "Evil Dead" film.

He also portrayed the part of Mr. Medwick in the AMC's TV series, "Remember WENN," and was cast as James H. Adams in "The Last Confederate: The Story of Robert Adams."

As reported by The Washington Post, Dorian appeared in selected regional theater productions at the Paper Mill Playhouse in Millburn prior to his retirement.

Dorian and Jane walked down the aisle in 1954, and they share three daughters – Melissa Dorian, Robin Dorian, and Jane Dorian.