Michael Zaslow was a popular American actor who starred in several soap operas, most notably as Roger Thorpe on Guiding Light. He won a Daytime Emmy Award for his performance in 1994, but his career was cut short by a devastating diagnosis of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), also known as Lou Gehrig’s disease. He died on December 6, 1998, at the age of 54.
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What is ALS and How Did It Affect Zaslow?
ALS is a progressive neurodegenerative disease that affects the nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord that control voluntary muscle movement. The disease causes the nerve cells to die, leading to muscle weakness, paralysis, and eventually death. There is no cure for ALS, and the average life expectancy after diagnosis is about three to five years.
Zaslow began to experience difficulty speaking in 1997, which affected his ability to perform on Guiding Light. According to CBS News, he was placed on leave and then fired from the show, although there are conflicting reports about whether he was dismissed or left voluntarily. It took some time before he was diagnosed with ALS, as it was initially thought that he had suffered a stroke.
Zaslow did not give up on acting, however. He returned to his previous role as David Renaldi on One Life to Live in 1998, and his condition was incorporated into the storyline. He made several appearances on the show until he was too ill to continue working. His last appearance on One Life to Live was aired on December 1, 1998, just five days before his death.
How Did Zaslow Use His Fame to Raise Awareness and Funds for ALS?
Zaslow was not only an actor, but also an activist who used his fame and influence to raise awareness and funds for ALS research and support. He helped form ZazAngels, a group of friends and colleagues who organized events and campaigns to fight the disease. He also served on the National Board of the American Federation of Television and Radio Artists (AFTRA) and as a board member of the Creative Coalition, a nonprofit organization that advocates for social issues.
Zaslow was outspoken about his condition and his hope for a cure. In a statement a few months before his death, he said: “I see my opportunity as doing for ALS what Chris Reeve did for spinal cord traumas, though on a more modest scale perhaps. This is a healing activity for me and Susan and dear friends, and our children as well.”
Zaslow’s efforts were recognized and appreciated by many people in the ALS community. Dorine Gordon, president of The ALS Association of Greater New York Chapter, said: “We will carry on the work Michael knew to be so important. The mission of the ALS Association has been advanced because of Michael’s efforts.”
What Was Zaslow’s Legacy and How Was He Remembered?
Zaslow left behind a legacy of excellence in acting and compassion in activism. He was survived by his wife, psychologist/writer Susan Hufford; and two daughters, Helena and Marika. His family requested that contributions be made to ZazAngels in his memory.
Zaslow was also remembered by his fans and colleagues who admired his talent and courage. A public memorial for him was held on January 25, 1999, at the Royale Theatre in Manhattan. Many soap opera stars attended the event and paid tribute to him.
Zaslow’s character on Guiding Light died off-screen in 2004, but his impact on the show and its viewers remained. His first on-screen “death” in 1980 was voted the top scene in the show’s history when the series celebrated its 50th anniversary in 1987.
Zaslow was also honored by having a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame at 7000 Hollywood Boulevard. His star was dedicated on June 25, 2004.
Michael Zaslow was a soap opera star who died of a rare disease, but he was also much more than that. He was a husband, father, friend, actor, activist, and inspiration to many people who faced challenges in their lives. He will always be remembered for his contribution to entertainment and society.
