John Carpenters Halloween Star Charles Cyphers Dies at the Age of 85

John Carpenters Halloween Star Charles Cyphers Dies at the Age of 85

As a long-time movie buff with a penchant for classic horror flicks, I can’t help but feel a pang of nostalgia upon hearing about the demise of Charles Cyphers. Known to many as the venerable Sheriff Leigh Bracket from John Carpenter’s Halloween (1978), he was more than just a character in my favorite slasher flick; he was a part of the fabric that made those films so memorable and terrifying.


85-year-old Charles Cyphers, renowned for his role as Sheriff Leigh Bracket in John Carpenter’s iconic horror film, Halloween (1978), has sadly passed away. Known alongside Scream Queen Jamie Lee Curtis and other cast members, Cyphers played a significant part in the hunt for the infamous serial killer, Michael Myers. After 45 years since the chilling events of that night, Cyphers’ manager, Chris Roe, confirmed his passing following a brief illness, as reported by Variety.

As a devoted cinephile, I’d like to share that Charlie was an endearing soul with a soft heart. His tales were always captivating, each one unfolding like a spellbinding movie scene. Over the years, he was not just a friend but also a valued client, and his absence will be deeply felt.

In the first Halloween movie, Michael Myers brutally kills Annie (Nancy Loomis), a character played by Nancy Loomis. Later, in Halloween II (1981), it’s revealed that the Sheriff’s own daughter has met the same fate. This tragic event deeply saddened Nancy Loomis (also known as Nancy Louise Kyes), who worked alongside her in horror films. Kyes lamented the loss of her co-star.

I’m truly saddened by the news about Chuck. For decades, he was not just a friend, but a companion in my cinematic journey. He was the one I could count on for a heartfelt encouragement, infectious laughter, and captivating tales that made every movie night memorable. His absence will be deeply felt.

‘Everyone’s Entitled to One Good Scare, Huh?’

John Carpenters Halloween Star Charles Cyphers Dies at the Age of 85John Carpenters Halloween Star Charles Cyphers Dies at the Age of 85John Carpenters Halloween Star Charles Cyphers Dies at the Age of 85John Carpenters Halloween Star Charles Cyphers Dies at the Age of 85John Carpenters Halloween Star Charles Cyphers Dies at the Age of 85John Carpenters Halloween Star Charles Cyphers Dies at the Age of 85John Carpenters Halloween Star Charles Cyphers Dies at the Age of 85

Charles Cyphers had a half-century-long career in Hollywood, starting in the early 70s, with roles in both movies and TV shows. His work was particularly prominent in the television series “Nick Freno: Licensed Teacher,” which ran for two seasons between 1996 and 1998. The skilled actor also made multiple appearances as Hugo Muncy on “The Betty White Show” in 1977 and 1978. However, fans of specific genres will recognize Cyphers’ acting talents from many of John Carpenter’s most popular films.

As a die-hard film enthusiast, I can’t help but reminisce about the magical collaboration between Halloween’s Nick Castle (Cyphers) and Donald Pleasence (Loomis), alongside mastermind John Carpenter, on Assault on Precinct 13 in 1976. Fast forward to The Fog, and these talented souls reassembled, creating an exciting cinematic experience for me as a viewer. It was a delight to see so many of Carpenter’s regular collaborators, including Nick Castle, come together to bring this 1980 movie to life. Jamie Lee Curtis graced our screens once more, and the unforgettable Loomis/Kyes spent most of his scenes alongside the legendary scream queen. To make it even more special, Curtis’ real-life mother, Janet Leigh, also featured prominently in The Fog.

Cyphers television resume features roles in numerous popular shows such as The Six Million Dollar Man, The Bionic Woman, Charlie’s Angels, Wonder Woman, Starsky and Hutch, The Dukes of Hazzard, Matlock, Dallas, Night Court, 21 Jump Street, and the short-lived series titled Freddy’s Nightmares within A Nightmare on Elm Street.

In one of his cherished film appearances, Cyphers starred in “Major League” (1989), a movie where he worked alongside an illustrious ensemble, featuring the likes of Tom Berenger, Charlie Sheen, Wesley Snipes, Rene Russo, Corbin Bernsen, and Bob Uecker, who was a true-life baseball legend. Cyphers also made significant impacts in other major film projects such as “Death Wish II,” “Loaded Weapon 1,” and the 1979 television movie titled “Elvis.”

In Carpenter’s “Escape from New York,” ciphers were present, and in 2021, Cypher took on the character of Leigh Brackett again in David Gordon Green’s second film of the Halloween trilogy, “Halloween Kills.”

“Well, it’s Halloween time… I suppose everyone deserves a good fright, don’t they?” Fans of Carpenter’s iconic 1978 film ‘Halloween’ would recognize this famous quote, spoken by Sheriff Bracket (Cyphers) to Laurie Strode (Curtis). This powerful line is undoubtedly one of Cyphers’ most memorable performances on screen, and his talent will certainly be missed.

Rest in peace, Charles Cyphers.

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2024-08-06 23:03