“Remembering the Iconic Barry Newman: A Tribute to the Star of ‘Vanishing Point’ and ‘Petrocelli'”

Barry Newman: A Tribute to the Iconic Actor

The passing of American actor Barry Newman on May 11 marks the end of an era. At 92 years old, the actor had left a significant impact on the entertainment industry, with his iconic performances in films and TV series like “Vanishing Point” and “Petrocelli“. While the actor was widely remembered for his role as a speed-loving ex-cop in “Vanishing Point”, his off-screen personality was nothing like his character. Newman was a cautious driver who lived a modest life even with a successful career in the entertainment industry.

From Anthropology Major to Hollywood Success

Born on November 7, 1930, in Boston, Newman graduated with an anthropology degree in 1952 from Brandeis University. It was where he met Lee Strasberg, a theater director and acting teacher, with whom he studied upon moving to New York to begin his acting career post a U.S. Army tenure. Newman made his acting debut in 1957, in Herman Wouk’s “Nature’s Way” playing the character of a jazz musician. He subsequently appeared in Broadway shows like “Maybe Tuesday,” “What Makes Sammy Run,” and “The Mouse Trap.”

The Iconic Roles and a Legacy to Last

Newman broke into the film industry in the ’60s with minor roles, and it wasn’t until “The Lawyer” in 1970, that he had his first lead role. However, it was his performance as Kowalski in Richard C. Sarafian’s “Vanishing Point” in 1971 that solidified him as a leading man. The actor’s career took off after the movie that showcased Newman’s flair for speed and his on-screen character’s love for it.

But it was not just “Vanishing Point” that marked Newman’s career. In the same year, the actor led the TV series “Petrocelli” as Tony Petrocelli, a young attorney defending a physician accused of murdering his wife. The character’s legal expertise and a desire to pursue the truth won Newman nominations for Primetime Emmy Awards and Golden Globe.

The ’70s were a fruitful decade for Newman as he starred in films like “Fear Is the Key,” “City on Fire,” and “The Salzburg Connection.” The actor also appeared in TV movies like “Sex and the Married Woman” and “King Crab.” Newman shifted to television roles in the ’80s with appearances in “Nightingales,” “The Fall Guy,” and “Quincy, M.E.” In the ’90s, the actor was recognized for his work on “Murder, She Wrote” and in several films like “Daylight,” “Goodbye Lover,” and “The Limey”.

A Legacy to Celebrate and Remember

Newman’s recent filmography might be limited, but his performances throughout his career have left a legacy and memories that will stay with his fans forever. Newman was not just an actor but an inspiration for people working in the entertainment industry. While he might be remembered most for “Vanishing Point” and “Petrocelli,” his contributions to the film industry go beyond these two iconic roles.

On behalf of movie aficionados and entertainment enthusiasts, we pay tribute to the actor, his life, and his work, and we extend our condolences to his family and friends who mourn his loss.