Iconic American Graffiti Actor Bo Hopkin Dies of Heart Attack  

Bo Hopkins, the 84-year-old actor who made waves in American cinema with his iconic role of Joe Young in American Graffiti, passed away on May 9.  

Hopkins’ wife, Susan, told The Hollywood Reporter about the actor’s demise on May 28. She detailed that the actor passed away after suffering a heart attack. He was pronounced dead at Valley Presbyterian Hospital in Van Nuys.  

The legendary actor also has a classic, old-vibe website up and running about him. It has an announcement of the actor’s passing and his love for the fans on the homepage. 

It is with great sadness that we announce that Bo has passed away. Bo loved hearing from his fans from around the world, and although he was unable to respond to every email over the last few years, he appreciated hearing from each and every one of you. 

Bo Hopkin

The website also has some trivia, photos, and a biography of Hopkins, immortalizing him and his contribution to American cinema.  

The actor was best known for the 1973 movie American Graffiti, directed by George Lucas. It was a coming-of-age comedy-drama that featured the likes of Harrison Ford, Charles Martin Smith, Cindy Williams, Ron Howard, and more.  

Hopkins’ portrayal of Joe Young, the leader of a gang called The Pharaohs, earned him much recognition and gave him his breakthrough.  

The actor continued his legendary work in The Wild Bunch (1969), The Getaway (1972), and Midnight Express (1978), among others. 

In a 2012 interview with Shock Cinema, via THR, Hopkins talked about how American Graffiti changed his, and his fans’ lives, saying, 

If I told you how many times people have come up to Candy [Clark], Paul [Le Mat], and me at these shows and told us that we’ve changed their lives, you wouldn’t believe it. 

Bo Hopkin

True to his statement, people who grew up watching Hopkins showcase his magic on the screen paid tribute by sharing the actor’s most memorable works. 

Bo Hopkins is survived by his wife Susan and kids Matthew and Jane.   

News Source: The Hollywood Reporter