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Jonathan-Frid-Obituary

Jonathan Frid

Obituary

TORONTO (AP) - Jonathan Frid, a Canadian actor best known for playing Barnabas Collins in the 1960s original vampire soap opera "Dark Shadows", has died. He was 87.

Frid died of natural causes in hospital in his home town of Hamilton, Ontario this past Friday the 13th, said Jim Pierson, a spokesman for Dan Curtis Productions, the creator of "Dark Shadows."

Frid starred in the 1960s gothic-flavored soap opera. It was about odd, supernatural goings-on at a family estate in Maine. Frid's character was added in 1967.

Johnny Depp plays Barnabas Collins in a Tim Burton directed version of Dark Shadows due out next month. Frid has a cameo role in the new movie.

Frid is survived by a nephew, Donald Frid.

ROB GILLIES, Associated Press


Copyright © 2012 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

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One of two events that I truly regret missing in my life was when Jonathan Frid visited High Point College in NC to read poetry on what turned out to be a stormy Halloween night back around the early 2000's or earlier perhaps it was? I can't actually remember the year.
What could have been more appropriate? An event not to be missed. Sadly, I missed it. I will always regret that.
I once read that he was hurt by today's youth in their comments that his portrayal of Barnabas was...

Mark Swaim

August 24, 2025 | Winston Salem, NC | Student

I love Dark shadows,I use to watch it everyday after school,it is my favorite show,and still is today,I love Jonathan frid,he is a excellent actor,I wish it was still on,but I still watch it,I have the complete set,thank you so much for the memories,he is the best.

Crystle Ehrman

May 03, 2025

In loving memory of a wonderful person. We will love you and miss you always.

Mary Rodriguez

January 15, 2025 | Other

I ran home from school to watch Dark Shadows when I was in grade school. I always felt sorry for Barnabus Collins. Jonathon rest in peace sir!!

Diane LaPoint

December 22, 2024 | Ocala, FL

What a true patriarch of the Collins family! I still watch DS daily! RIP Jonathan/Barnabas

D Carroll

November 16, 2024 | Houston, TX

I grew up with the dark shadow show. I use to sing the theme song all day and night. I use to dream about the show
Love watching it right now. One of my favorite shows for Halloween night

Pamela Malone

November 11, 2024 | STARKVILLE, MS

Jonathan, u still my favorite vampire of all time.

August 03, 2024

I grew up watching Dark Shadows.. I couldn't wait to get home from school & turn on the TV.. & wait for Barnabus.. He was an amazing actor & I loved every second of watching him.. I'm currently watching the show from the beginning & I still love him.. Rest in Peace Jonathan Frid.. You are forever in our hearts..

LuJuan Harrill

July 01, 2024

I used to run home from school to catch the last 20 minutes of ds. I loved Barnabas. Jonathan Frid was a great actor.

Janet w.

June 01, 2024

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