Timmy Everett was a promising actor, dancer, choreographer and director who had a successful career in Broadway, film and television. He was best known for his roles in musicals like The Music Man and The Dark at the Top of the Stairs, for which he won two Theatre World Awards. He also appeared in popular TV shows like Decoy, General Electric Theater, Naked City, Outlaws and Ben Casey. However, his life was cut short by an apparent heart attack in his sleep on March 4, 1977, in New York City at age 38. What caused his sudden death and what legacy did he leave behind?
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A Bright Start in Show Business
Timmy Everett was born on February 14, 1939, in Helena, Montana. He showed an early talent for dancing and acting, and attended the Neighborhood Playhouse School of the Theatre in New York. He made his debut at the age of 14 in a TV production of On Your Toes, a musical comedy by Rodgers and Hart. He then went on to perform in various Broadway shows, such as The Dark at the Top of the Stairs by William Inge, The Cold Wind and the Warm by S.N. Behrman, and The Music Man by Meredith Willson. He also starred in the film adaptation of The Music Man in 1962, playing the role of Tommy Djilas, the rebellious boyfriend of Marian Paroo’s younger sister.
A Gay Man in a Homophobic Era
Timmy Everett was a gay man in a time when homosexuality was frowned upon in Hollywood and society at large. He faced discrimination and prejudice from both the industry and the public, and had to hide his true identity and feelings. He had a few relationships with other men, such as actor Anthony Perkins and dancer Tommy Rall, but they were kept secret and often ended badly. He also suffered from depression and anxiety, and struggled with alcoholism and drug addiction. He tried to cope with his personal problems by immersing himself in his work, but he also became increasingly erratic and unreliable.
A Mysterious Death at 38
On March 4, 1977, Timmy Everett was found dead in his apartment in Manhattan by his friend and roommate, actor John Karlen. He had apparently died of a heart attack in his sleep, but the exact cause of his death was never confirmed. Some speculated that he had overdosed on drugs or alcohol, or that he had committed suicide. Others suggested that he had a congenital heart defect or that he had contracted AIDS, which was not yet widely known or understood at the time. His death was a shock to his fans and colleagues, who remembered him as a talented and charismatic performer who had a bright future ahead of him.
A Lasting Legacy in Theatre and Film
Timmy Everett left behind a legacy of memorable performances in theatre and film that showcased his versatility and talent as an actor, dancer, choreographer and director. He was praised for his ability to portray complex and nuanced characters with depth and emotion. He was also admired for his skillful dancing and singing, which added charm and energy to his roles. He influenced many young actors who followed in his footsteps, such as John Travolta, Kevin Bacon and Matthew Broderick. He was also honored posthumously with a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame in 1986.
Timmy Everett cause of death was a tragic end to a brilliant career that spanned two decades. He was a star who shone brightly on stage and screen, but also faced many challenges and hardships in his personal life. He was a gay man who lived in a homophobic era, but also a courageous man who pursued his passion for art and entertainment. He was a talented star who died too soon, but also a legend who lives on through his work.
