Mel Novak

Mel Novak, an actor known for his dozens of roles as tough guy villains, died April 9, 2025, in a care facility in Southern California at the age of 90.

Over his six decades of acting, Novak played dozens of roles, often as tough guys, thugs, and villains. He was a mainstay in B-movies such as "Black Belt Jones," "Arachnado 2: Flaming Spiders" and "GiAnts." However, he was best known for his starring turn in Bruce Lee's (1940–1973) 1978 action movie, "Game of Death," in which he played Stick the Assassin. He also had roles in the Chuck Norris films "A Force of One" and "An Eye for an Eye." Novak did his own stunts and fight scenes, which made for exciting movies, but which also took its toll on his body. Off-screen, he was an ordained minister who often reached out to those on the fringes of society.

"He became a trusted, loyal friend, a mentor, and he became my godfather in so many ways," film makeup artist Fri Angela said on Facebook. "He accomplished so much, getting humanitarian awards counseling many on skid row, in jails, and recovery and abuse victims … Please, in honor of Mel, don't miss out on opportunities to tell people you love them and never get so busy with life that you don't get a chance to connect with those who are important."

(Image: GP/Star Max/GC Images)