Charles Dierkop, the Versatile Actor from Butch Cassidy
Charles Dierkop, the talented character actor known for his role in the classic Western film “Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid,” has passed away at the age of 87. Dierkop, who portrayed the outlaw George ‘Flat Nose’ Curry, died on February 25th at Sherman Oaks Hospital in LA. His daughter Lynn shared with The Hollywood Reporter that he had suffered a recent heart attack and pneumonia.
Born in La Crosse, Wisconsin in 1936, Dierkop served in the US military during the Korean War. After being discharged, he pursued a career in Hollywood, starting with his enrollment in the American Foundation of Dramatic Arts in Philadelphia.
Dierkop’s distinctive broken nose, a result of childhood accidents, worked to his advantage when he landed the role in “Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid.” In a 2018 interview, he revealed that his agent had come across the script and noticed the character name “Flat Nose Curry.” Recognizing Dierkop’s unique facial feature, his agent suggested him for the part. After meeting with director George Roy Hill, Dierkop was cast in the film.
Apart from his memorable role in “Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid,” Dierkop also appeared alongside Paul Newman and Robert Redford in another hit film, “The Sting.” Additionally, he starred in the police procedural series “Police Woman,” working alongside Angie Dickinson.
Dierkop married Joan Addis, whom he met at the American Foundation of Dramatic Arts, in 1958. They had two children, Charles Jr. and Lynn. Sadly, Charles Jr. passed away at the age of 29 in 1990.
Charles Dierkop will be remembered as a versatile actor who brought depth and authenticity to his roles on the big and small screens. His contributions to the world of entertainment will continue to resonate with audiences for years to come.
