On This Day in Horror History: Legends Peter Cushing and Robin Williams Both Died

You want to talk about a depressing day? How about the day that one of horror’s greatest and most prolific talents died? Or how about the day that one of the greatest comedians the world has ever known took his own life? That’s a depressing day. That’s August 11^th.

It’s been 23 years since Hammer standout and horror icon, Peter Cushing passed away. Prostate cancer claimed his life in 1994. I probably don’t need to highlight many of Cushing’s works, as he’s one of the busiest gents horror has ever welcomed with open arms, but out of respect for those who may want to discover, for the first time, some of his greater works, the following make for fine (but just a few) examples of powerful performances and good films: The Curse of Frankenstein, The Abominable Snowman, Horror of Dracula, The Hound of the Baskervilles, The Mummy, The Brides of Dracula, Dr. Terror’s House of Horrors, Scream and Scream Again, Twins of Evil and Tales from the Crypt.

Another great to pass on August 11^th was Robin Williams, world renown comedian and surprisingly versatile performer. Williams was widely respected in the film industry, often acknowledged as one of the best in the business. Sadly, he took his own life three years ago today. Tragically, he hanged himself.

Williams’ horror credits were limited but impressive. He appeared in One Hour Photo, and Insomnia, the dark, genre bending pieces, Dead Again and Death to Smoochy. He also surfaced in sci-fi pics, Bicentennial Man, The Final Cut and A.I. Artificial Intelligence.