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| Steven Greene (right) poses with actor Yuzo Kayama during the filming of Espy (1974). Photo courtesy of Steven Greene. Espy © 1974, Toho Co., Ltd. |
Steven D. Greene, the American actor who played the prime minister of Baltonia in the Toho actioner Espy (1974), passed away peacefully on November 12, according to his son. He was 91 years old.
Prior to his acting role at Toho, Mr. Greene was an Army veteran who worked as a deep-sea diver and newspaperman throughout his varied career. He covered the 1971 Hakone Aphrodite music festival for Pacific Stars and Stripes, at which Pink Floyd was the headlining act. He spent three days there with his family, covering the event. Mr. Greene's article, courtesy of Mr. Greene's son, can be seen below.
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| Photo © Steven E. Greene. |
I was privileged to interview Mr. Greene about his remarkable career, as well as his appearance in Espy, in January 2021. It's well worth a read, as he had many fascinating stories to tell.
After the interview, I called him to wish him a happy birthday in September 2021. He was still doing well and told me about the great evening out he'd had with his family. I couldn't reach him in September of this year, but now I understand why. I wish I could have spoken to him one last time.
Rest in peace, Mr. Greene.
