wilsonblogclassic® Originally posted Thursday, January 15, 2009

Yesterday saw yet another loss in the world of entertainment. Ricardo Montalban, 88, was a great talent that had been performing in movies, television and on the stage for over 60 years in a varied range of roles. He was born in Mexico City, Mexico in 1920 but moved to California in his youth to pursue his love of acting. Mr. Montalban appeared in his first Hollywood production in 1942 and continued to work the rest of his life in many notable parts. In later years he was confined to a wheelchair but he still maintained a regular work schedule using his ample talents to do voice work in various projects. To many in my age group he will always be best remembered as Mr. Roarke on the television series Fantasy Island as well as for his memorable (and successful) TV ads for the Chrysler Cordoba. Some more of my personal favorite performances would include: Star Trek: The Wrath of Khan, Conquest of the Planet of the Apes, Battleground and Mystery Street.