Gerrit Graham, who played glam-rock diva Beef in 'Phantom of the Paradise,' dies at 77 - USA Today

Actor and songwriter Gerrit Graham, best known for starring in "Phantom of the Paradise," "Pretty Baby" and multiple "Star Trek" TV series, has died. He was 77.

The beloved screen star's death was confirmed by his ex-wife, Dede Taylor, who told The Hollywood Reporter that Graham died in an assisted living facility in Rhinebeck, New York, on Tuesday, Sept. 15. His cause of death was complications from lung disease, according to the report.

A statement released on the actor's Facebook page also confirmed the reports: "It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of Gerrit Graham–a beloved father, grandfather, devoted friend, and legendary character actor. Gerrit passed away peacefully on September 15th, comforted by the presence of his two sons at his side."

It continued: "Gerrit worked passionately until health concerns eventually called him into retirement. He will be remembered not only for the brilliance, wit, and depth he brought to his craft, but for the love and devotion he shared with his family and friends."

In light of reports of Graham dying from lung disease at age 77, the actor's agent, Dominic Mancini, shared a statement with USA TODAY remembering his friend and client.

"Gerrit had a rare gift for dry humor – the kind of delivery that could make a simple line unforgettable. Whether playing eccentric, deadpan, quirky, or completely straight-faced, he brought a personality and presence that made you want to keep watching," Mancini said. "His work was a reminder that sometimes the most memorable performers aren't the loudest ones – they're the ones with perfect timing, a knowing look, and an unmistakable voice."

"Hollywood has lost a truly gifted, character actor, and audiences have lost a familiar face who brought plenty of laughs along the way. I have lost a dear friend and client," Mancini added. "Rest in peace, Gerrit Graham. Thank you for all the years, all the roles, and especially all those wonderful memories of working together. You will be missed. My heart goes out to your family, friends, and many fans around the world."

Born in New York on Nov. 27, 1949, Graham built a decades-long career spanning stage, film and television as well as screenwriting and songwriting.

He made his onscreen debut in 1968, starring in Brian De Palma's satire "Greetings" as Lloyd Clay alongside Robert De Niro and in the director's 1970 sequel, "Hi, Mom!"

Graham and De Palma became frequent collaborators early in their careers. Across their four projects, he booked his most iconic role as the theatrical, flamboyant glam-rock singer Beef, who meets an electrifying demise in 1974's "Phantom of the Paradise."

He played Highpockets, the abusive boyfriend of Susan Sarandon's Hattie, in Louis Malle's 1978 drama "Pretty Baby" and appeared in Robert Zemeckis' "Used Cars" (1980) and "Child's Play 2" (1990).

Graham found small-screen success in the mid-'90s with voicing gigs in "The Pink Panther" and as Franklin Sherman on the adult animated series "The Critic" for two seasons. Trekkies might also recall seeing him in one-off episodes in Star Trek's "Deep Space Nine" and "Voyager."

In the late '80s, Graham turned his talents to music, cowriting the lyrics for Grateful Dead's 1989 hit "Victim or the Crime" with Bob Weir. The track first appeared on the Dead's "Built to Last" album and became a fan favorite during the rockers' final jaunt of live performances.

Behind the camera, Graham earned screenwriting credits on popular projects like the 1985 "Twilight Zone" reboot, as well as 1988's "Oliver & Company" and 1989's "The Little Mermaid."

Graham is survived by his sons Jack and Henry; grandchildren Nolan, Micah, Vera, and Joey; and his brother, Sam Graham.