After admiring this guy for years, and finding out he lost a leg, I decided to do some research to try, and contact him. I learned he lived with a woman outside a small town in the south. After doing some more digging, I was actually able to get an email address for him. I didn't know if it was his real email, but wrote a letter to him anyway thanking him for all he had done in the entertainment industry, and let him know that there were still fans out there who were wishing the best for him. Several weeks later I received an email from him, thanking me for contacting him. His response was so thoughtful, and from the heart, I'm glad I did reach out to him. RIP JMV.
Thanks for that comment. It was sweet. Sadly, I was wallowing in the tragedy of his decline and the fact that he responded to you courteously brought some measure of comfort. I hope he is finally at peace.
@@FactsVerse Your reply was idiotic - shows you dont read the comments and just cut and past responses. Shame on you... no interest in the topic of your own video.. just in it for what ???
I was born in 63 , so by the time he made it big I was a big fan. I'm sorry to see how his last years went. I had no idea he lost a leg. RIP old trooper. You will be remembered for your good days not the bad. Great video , thank you kindly Kevin 🙏
my dad used to talk to Jan and was a friend of his. My dad used to bowl at the "Kings County" bowl in Hanford Ca. My dad use to tell our family how nice he was in conversation. It's a tragic story, not one that I'll ever forget. I remember it as though it was yesterday. My dad was just a bowler along with my mom. Jan was taken with my dad and treated him as a true friend.
Thank you for sharing a part of your life and your dad's too. We're happy to know that Jan-Michael has a true friend in your dad. He will be badly missed.
Crashed at my house in Laguna Beach back in late 90s.He was in bad shape.Met him at his peak years early.Through all his suffering he remained a great guy!
This one of the saddest Hollywood stories. This guy had the looks and fortune on aspiring actors wished they had. He bottom out badly. My father always talks about this as one of the worst tragedies in Hollywood and I can't agree more.
Damn sad. The first movie I saw him in was "Tribes" and I was convinced this guy was the epitome of cool. Success has ruined more people than failure. RIP Jan-Michael....
Before Tom Cruise there was Jean Michael Vincent. Gosh!... I had the biggest crush on him during the time of Air Wolf! And I was just a little girl. 😚 How sad his life was. Rest in peace Jean. Thank you for letting me knew you. And many thanks to you for posting this. I've actually forgotten about him. May his soul rest in peace.
This story is so so heartbreaking, addiction is such a horrible disease and so hard to break the hold it has over you. I honestly didn't know this was Jans story until today RIP my friend and thank you for you for your contribution, I truly hope you're at peace now x
Absolutely tragic...if this doesn't deter anybody from taking drugs or abusing alcohol, then I don't know what will. This guy was beautiful and ended up a wreck. It could have been avoided....I loved him in The Mechanic with Charlies Bronson..
Nah... As a critical care nurse I can tell you from experience -- NOTHING kills a drug addict til their body finally goes to zero. They're used to the abuse and it takes alot/long time (decades, usually) to push them over the edge.
Remember that part where the girl slashed her own wrists,then asked Charles Bronson and Jan Michael Vincent how long it would take to die,thinking they would help her,since she appeared to just want attention?...And they just walked out and left her there? Wow.
@@jaycoppola4324 It might have been better if they didn’t kill each other so that there could have been several movies. Bronson and Jan Michael Vincent had good chemistry
Yeah, man, they tried to re-do that one with Jason Statham, and it's a good movie, but our Charlie really nailed it with his original version, a real classic. However, it is truly sad to see how things panned-out for Jan M. Vincent; he was to all intents an purposes a good guy, a hard worker, a great entertainer, he made a lot of movies, tv shows, helped put food on plates & clothes on the back of the many people on the other side of the camera who work as hard to make those things come together, he made his contribution to life and the lives of the many people that he worked with, so, in my book he was good fella, who fell victim to the people who introduced him to a narcotic called Cocaine; followed by some traffic accidents, that anybody can unintentionally fall victim to, and the long term after effects of those injuries, so, that's not his fault, that happens to many; eg. . . . . princess Diana had one, and she died, so, who's to say who is to blame; in life shit happens; some die, some don't; but the ones who don't get killed by it end up suffering from the aftereffects of their injuries, just like our Jan did, I don't blame him for that or anything, I only see him as having been another of endless millions of unfortunate people who have accidents in life; eg, again, another one, Amy Winehouse; introduced to alcohol, a narcotic, over-exposure, stress, result, she died on her floor face down, full of alcohol; another example, George Michael, found dead in bed on Christmas day; Why? the guy simply wanted to be dead; Robin Williams; again, the poor man simply wanted to end it all for most of (if not all of) his adult life; Why? God knows, it's something that we mere mortals can never really fathom-out, he just wanted to die. So many entertainers have checked-out in mysterious circumstances, either drug or alcohol related, or plain outright suicide with a bottle of tablets; you just can say what it is with some people; many just want out; often for no apparent rhyme of reason. Look at the state that Mickey Rourke has gotten into at various times in his life; who knows what makes him tick, go figure; it is what it is, and I'll say it again, in life, shit happens !!!!!
I remember him well growing up. He was a golden child in Hollywood. I think you better have your psychology pretty healthy to survive that type of temptation. Us mere mortals can never understand what people like him are exposed to. It unfortunately caught up with him as it does to all that go down that path with drugs and alcohol. He made his mark but not as big as it could've been.
You also left out one of the greatest surfer movies he ever did Big Wednesday. What a sad way to die drugs will destroy your life same thing with alcohol
He ruined his career with alcohol just like his character in Big Wednesday. I always thought he played that part so we'll, but looks like he wasn't really acting.
Addiction is a tragic disease. But Jan-Michael's beauty and his natural acting skill brought joy and smiles to so many of us. And BIG WEDNESDAY is *epic*.
I loved Airwolf and the illusion of Stringfellow Hawk. Then he seemed to disappear. I was busy with my own life and raising a family, it was years later when I saw the "old" Jan Michael and was aghast at the difference. I'm not surprised at how quickly he rose to the top but his decline was a sad thing to behold.
No it isn't. We have always been that way BUT today (within my lifetime) we have developed better systems and knowledge to deal with addiction and all the related issues.
@@ttnnaples8060; I think it's like depression, you don't really understand the depth of what you are experiencing. People should be treated medically, and not with prison.
@@ttnnaples8060 its not always stupid people. Sometimes it stems from someone trusting their doctor for a serious problem. And some people are more likely to become addicted.
When I was in high school my girlfriend’s grandmother told us about a movie she saw called “Buster and Billy”. I watched it and really liked it. Jan Michael Vincent was one of the top heartthrobs at that time.
Myself and a friend met Jan Michael Vincent at a bar in Malibu while traveling there from Vancouver Canada he was nice and friendly this is when he still had his good looks. He chatted with us for awhile. We were thrilled.
I was so in love with him in the 80's. He had a good run.Thirty years in the business and being that successful is nothing to sneeze at. At some time you've got to pay the piper though.
Wow. I remember finding him gorgeous in the 70s. Then I guess I forgot all about him. He had his ups and downs like all of us, no one is perfect. Thanks for letting us know his story
I met Jan Michael Vincent when I was 19 living on Maui in 79 ! He was so handsome and charming and a down to earth nice guy ! He did love to party ! We drank many tequilas and he kissed me good-bye ! I will always have fond memories of him .... so sad his life ended up the way it did .. he really was beautiful...... ❤
I really liked his character in Airwolf...it was a favorite show of mine. He was lucky but didn't know it, and that is truly sad. His addictions are an insight into his search for something in life that wasn't fulfilled and that is regrettable for such a talented person.
It's really hard to imagine what it would feel like to be the upside of a *gifted*, literal 1 in a million chance. It was winning the lottery without even having to buy the ticket. You walk on a beach, some dude comes up to you, hands you a successful fame-and-fortune career with no hurdles to entry, and all you have to say is yes.
I always wondered what happened to him. I thought he was gorgeous. Looks like he was along the same lines as David Cassidy. Both were talented, handsome men. Had so much going for him, but the drugs and alcohol won in the end. Such a pity. RIP JMV
I gasped when I saw how much Jan had aged in such a short time. If his name wasn't with his picture, would not have known that was him. Drugs and alcohol are no joke. He's at PEACE NOW.
He was gorgeous! I remember him being in a movie called "Journey to Shiloh" with James Caan and an unknown actor named Harrison Ford. I dont remember the year, but he played Little Bit. I cried when he died, ( in the movie) because he was so handsome. He was really good in "Tribes ". I didnt know he had so many problems with drugs. He was the iconic "golden boy ", and could do no wrong.
@@juliadams42 If you can ever locate a copy of the long-defunct magazine, "Look", a sister publication to the "also-late" Life magazine, circa 1969/70, you will realize just what a gorgeous young guy he was. Provocative for its time, it featured him, his then-wife and young son, nude (top-half) on the cover. Yes, he was stunningly beautiful...
Yes, I remember a movie Buster & Billie that Jan-Michael Vincent starred in early in his career. He was really a very good looking guy. Unfortunately for him, he seemed kind of tormented in his life with the substance abuse problems. Another really, really good looking actor was Ken Wahl. He was in a popular series, Wiseguy. Wahl was also in several movies, one of them was Purple Hearts with Cheryl Ladd. I think because of an injury and a chronic pain situation, he gave up an acting career. I got the impression that Ken Wahl was happy to give up his acting career.
As a little girl, I had such a strong crush on him. He had everything, looks, talent and personality in his youth. For me, he was the 70s and 80s Brad Pitt. I loved the way he looked before he started drinking. I think he had that biological gene medical scientist talk about the one that makes a person highly susceptible to alcohol and drug addiction, like country singer Randy Traverse. Now, there's medication for this type of addiction that didn't exist back in those days. When he started his fall I hoped he would bounce back getting the right type of help. It was hard seeing his condition in later life. Losing him to alcohol addiction was a lost for the Hollywood industry and those of us hoping he would survive. R.I.P Jan-Michael. You're not forgotten.
I was in high school when JMV was killing it.. those 'Buster and Billie', 'White Line Fever',, 'The Mechanic' days he was the coolest. It just seemed so easy for him. His life should be a lesson for everyone to what drugs & alcohol can do to someone. RIP-JMV.
This reminds me of how very human we all are. There was some hurt early on and famous or not we all want acceptance. I feel sad seeing anyone suffer and become a different person over time.
I’m reading so many posts of compassion toward those whose depression and anxiety led to addiction. It makes a mother of a tormented child feel a little hopeful.
I remember "The World's Greatest Athlete" as one of my favorite movies growng up. I can also recall seeing Jan -Michael's decline unfolding over the years. Truly is Tragic. The rebel in his blood embodied his being. I have been a pretty hard partier in my life, however, it never got to a point where I could not maintain the proper perspective. It's almost like one of those stories wherein one sells their soul for success and has to suffer when Satan calls. God bless his soul.
Sometimes a person who you think has it all, does not. I try and never be jealous of anyone. You don't know what kind of hell they are going thru. We all miss you, Jan. I hope you are at Peace.
I used to tell my daughter the same thing. You never know what hell a supposedly successful and happy person is going through. Had a friend in high school who I envied because she was a natural athelete and upbeat person. I found out, from her at our twentieth class reunion, that all through high school her father was sexually abusing her.
The first movie I saw him in was The World's Greatest Athlete, which I saw at an afternoon cinema. I was really young and had the biggest crush on him!! Throughout the years I saw his descent into alcoholism and drugs, and felt so sad about it. I pray he's at peace now. 💜🙏
He was just SO handsome when young! I remember being dazzled when I saw him in some old movie as a ghost, who appeared on the beach to romance a girl. And then, with Charles Bronson, as a hitman in training. Wow!
Jan was a dear friend of mine for twenty years. We tried many times to get him sober. I visited him multiple times in various rehab facilities. He sometimes wanted to get sober, and other times, just wanted to keep drinking. He was in a Venice Beach rehab one time and I went to visit him and this young 19 or 20 year old boy who was in there kept sneaking out and getting alcohol and bring it into him, and one day I had Jan introduced me to the guy and I closed the door when he came in Jan's bedroom and walked right up to him and got in his face and told him if I found out if he did that again I'd beat his ass and then I kicked him out of the bedroom. I miss Jan that last woman he was with was a real piece of s***
I knew Jan back in the eighties when he lived in Ventura County. I thought that he was my age but he’s actually ten years older. I met him at The whale’s Tail in Channel Island Harbor. I went to his house and partied a few times. His girlfriend was helping him party then. I can’t remember her name though.
You were a good friend!! I met him when he filmed Damnation Alley in Arizona on location and took a picture with me I was all but 15 and a big fan. He was gracious to take the picture with me. He was very handsome!! RIP
@Johnny Boone Same here. So sorry for the loss of your friend. You are a good friend. Bless you sir...Airwolf was popular in my country at that time. Great show & actors. Unforgettable..💕
I loved Jan Michael Vincent. One of the most handsome men, especially in Hollywood. It’s a shame he was never able to beat his alcohol addiction. My Uncle was one of the nicest guys you’d e we meet, good looking, and highly intelligent. Unfortunately after WWII he became an alcoholic, and no matter how many lived ones and friends tried to help him. He continued to decline. When he would drink, his personality would do a 180, and he was very mean. My Uncle was in the 82nd Airborne in WWII and he obviously had PTSD, but little was known about it back then. Once out of the war he became a firemen and worked his way to Lieutenant, again very intellectual. Anyway over time his drinking became worse and worse , where he ruined his career and his wife divorced him taking their son with her. My Uncle was arrested for vagrancy in NY City and died in jail of supposed pneumonia. So many tried to help him, but he just couldn’t beat it. I know there are so many with the similar stories. Im sure Mr Vincent treasured your friendship and loved you. Im sorry fir your loss. We sure have a lot of movies to watch him in, and remember him. I always get excited when I see an old series and it has Mr Vincent in it. My favorite movie he was in is I believe Hooper, second runner up - The Undefeated. Although there are a few mentioned in this video I haven’t seen yet. Going to have to look those up.
Eventually what’s on the inside will show up on the outside. I have seen some stunningly beautiful men whose beauty disguised how full of rage and hate they were. When you’re young and beautiful the world will give you a pass. When you’re old and bitter, not so much. If people are mean and bitter when they’re drunk, they’re covert when they’re sober.
I met Jan Michael at a car show in January of 1996 in Santa Clara ,CA. My younger brother and Vincent were almost identical in every way. My brother had a tragic ending. R.I.P.
@@shirleymcmac8594 My deceased brother Chuck and I were big fans of Jan MV in the Buster/Billie time, mid-70's. Resemblance was unbelievable in every way, looks, habits etc. They say we all have a double out there.
I cannot believe that I literally forgot about him and I've seen almost everything he's in; I'm usually very good at remembering those who've passed and I had no clue he died, still watching the video. Sad. He reminds me so much of Josh Hartnett from Pearl Harbour with Ben Affleck, wow...they look like they could have been brothers. RIP....now I remember, thank you for posting this.
I was a huge fan and later forgot about him, too. I recall that when he passed, it was not made public right away. The family waited till they were ready to share of his passing.
It's all in the genes. Throughout my life, I have been astonished at the longevity of people who should of died years ago, and even more surprised at the early deaths of some people, like my stepmother who lived a healthy lifestyle. Her mother died young.
Yeah, same here. I met a 26 year old semi professional swimmer this year. She suffered a stroke at the age of 26. You can try to prevent some things. But if fate decides its time, you can't do anything.
I met him at the retirement party for the Army Guard Recruiter who managed to get him into the National Guard so he wouldn't have to go to Vietnam. It was at a Polynesian Restaurant. He got drunk, started harassing the stage dancers, and finally the Manager came over and told us that if we didn't get him under control he was going to throw us all out. The guy was definitely broken.
He was a hero we ll always remember... We used to watch his tv show Air wolf with great enthusiasm here in Pakistan in our childhood in 80s... So sad to learn about his life history and tregic demise.
This tragedy resembles that of the late David Cassidy, who continued to abuse alcohol until his death. There was a sad documentary last year about him and showed his tragic flaws quite openly. In one of his final phone calls he admitted that he never quit alcohol but told everyone that he had. I treat addicts for a living and have observed that, at the very basis of the problem is the belief that they are not good enough, not worthy enough, etc. However, so many do have a successful rehab. Addiction is a complicated disease. R.I.P. both of them.
I am so glad you put his beginning 5o his end. Too many young people think it won't happen to them. So this gives them a reality check. The expectations put on actors to stay young, don't gain weight, don't do this or you must do that plays a lot on an actor's mental state. So sad.
As a teen, I kept a photo in my bedroom of him. He was very handsome and a good actor in his early days. So sad that he fell into addiction. I always wondered what happened to him and this was heartwrenching to run across. RIP MJV
One of the most beautuful males to ever grace Hollywood. Fell in love with him when he starred in the teen-oriented movie Western "Journey to Shiloh" back in the late 1960's, and crazy-crushed on him with my high school girlfriends when he starred in the ABC Movie of the Week, "Sandcastles" in the early 1970's. Stardom and Hollywood is a curse for so many. He was, sadly, another victim of both...
I worked @ Universal in 1985 - 86 and on the show "Air wolf". Everyone on the show knew he had a serious problem. All around his trailer were empty, crumpled-up cocaine / crystal bindle wrappers. He wouldn't spend much time outside the trailer and it wasn't my place to say anything to him as I was just part of the production crew. On the flip side though, I really liked Ernest Borgnine and found him to be a very personable fellow. He knew, but wouldn't discuss Jan's problems, he would just shake his head when I would bring the subject up. I miss Mr. Borgnine and the time we spent talking during lunch breaks.
He was a huge crush of mine during his Air Wolf days. I remember it used to be aired Tuesday nights and I would always make sure I finish all my homework so I could enjoy Air Wolf. Each time I joined competitions like essay and art contests, I would use JMV as pen name or put JMV on top of my paper or cartolina.
@@FactsVerse + Its a pity he did that to himself.They are finding out now that many of these addictions can come from bi- polar disorders. Terrible shame he couldn't have been saved from the wrath of this horrible substance abuse.
He was totally AWESOME in the "The Mechanic" with Charles Bronson. One of my favorite Jan-Michael Vincent movies! And of course, Stringfellow Hawke was a legendary TV character.
I was a young teen when I happened on him on TV in a movie called "Sandcastles". When he came on screen, my first thought was, "god, he's beautiful!" My second was, "where do I know him from?" It bugged me for a while and finally hit me - he was on a kid's show I watched a number of years earlier called "The Banana Splits" - the little adventure series that was part of the show was really the only reason I watched. So sad to watch a life unravel like that. RIP, Jan-Michael.
Sandcastles was the first time I remember seeing Jan and he captured my heart I became a life long fan. I also remember seeing a photo of Jan & Wife Bonnie in either Life or Look magazine about new upcomers in Hollywood. They were both incredibly beautiful couple. So tragic how things turned out for him from middle age on. I will always remember that gorgeous young man he once was. Rest Easy Jan ❤
@Patricia Rivas "He looked awful at the end", no, to me, he looked just sad as hell. Surely he must have had SOMEONE who tried to tell him he looked sad as hell. I don't mean 'sad' sad, but rundown & worn out from life, maybe? It would be sad if he had no one to tell him this, just my humble opinion. Simply unbelievable !!
He actually held his own but tragically succumbed to his dark side. He was beautiful in his own fight. RIP Condolences to his loved ones He was a beautiful actor that his talents went by the wayside is missed ♥️
Sadly, it's not surprising Jan-Michael ended up like he did. Look how many actors end up battling demons they just can't overcome and just because you have a pretty face and you're a decent actor... it doesn't make you immune to all the excess & temptations Hollywood has to offer. But it's so sad when people can't fight & win the battle to stay straight... This reminds me so much of Dennis Wilson, probably because their similar age, love of California weather, the beach and love of Surfing... and BOTH, such GREAT looking guys & having no problems when it came to the ladies! Dennis had his demons also, however he was never mean or into getting in trouble with the law nor did he cause physical harm to ANYONE, except to himself... Dennis died tragically too young and Jan-Michael... He fought, but still seem to go downhill fast with no control & also no family support it looks like. Either way, no matter WHO you are addiction/abuse of any kind, drugs and alcohol especially, usually doesn't end well and hopefully now Jan-Michael is finally at peace. He was a good actor and he will always be remembered. Thanks for sharing! 🙏💜 RIP Jan-Michael
Everyone battles something. Some people are just weak and never learn from their mistakes. It has nothing to do with what they do, it is who they are. Remember, they are merely human beings.
But Dennis probably would have ended up much the same way, the only real difference between the two when it comes to substance abuse is Jan lived through his brushes with death because of his drinking and Dennis didn't. For those who don't know, he was diving off a friend's boat where his own boat had been repossessed by the bank, looking for trinkets and things he'd thrown overboard in the past. Problem was he'd come up after each dive and have some more drinks, and drowned before his friend knew he was in trouble.
He was absolutely gorgeous; the typical surfer guy. Too bad he got involved in drugs and alcohol. The downfall of many, both male and female. Too much money can ruin a career.
I never can understand how people can abuse their bodies like they do. Especially people who are blessed with great genes. I’m not religious and don’t need anyone to tell me, your body is your temple. You have nothing if you don’t have your health.
It wasn’t the money that ruined him, it was how he used the money. The only thing the money did was allow him to buy better drugs and booze than he would have if he was poor. He was able to drink Wild Turkey and Stoli’s instead of MD 20/20.
I, along with millions of other girls, had a mad love for him. Until I heard that he thought women could also be used as punching bags. Then I just felt sorry for him.
I have always been a fan of Jan. I saw him in the mechanic, damnation alley and air wolf and recently saw him in white line fever. He was a great actor and admired him. RIP Jan you will be missed
We're glad to see another Patrick Swayze fan! Also, thank you for sharing your favorite films of him. What other types of videos would you like to see on our channel?
I graduated with Jan Michael Vincent in 1963 from Hanford Union High School in Hanford, CA. He was really popular in school. He dated a girl, who's last name was O'dell. , during school , who also graduated in 1963. Everyone thought they would end up getting married. To everyone's surprise, they never got married. They were both in Drama during High School. It didn’t surprise me that he went to Hollywood to become an actor! It really saddens me to see how his life so drastically changed! So, so sad!😢 It makes me so sad how his life developed. He had so much going for him.
@@melaniewalker5226 FLIM AND MUSIC INDUSTRY IS A VERY DIRTY HOLLOW WORLD FROM INSIDE, OUTSIDE IT IS VERY GLAMOROUS, BUT INSIDE MORE PROBLEMS THAN MONEY CAN HAVE THE SOLUTION TOO
Why Ask Me: you forgot the thing that probably led him to all the bad choices, HOLLYWEIRD. Good-looking guys like him are often hunted by gay moguls that are difficult or impossible to say no to if you want to keep working. So many have destroyed themselves because of it.
It was a eye opening video. There was something about him. . It hurt when he had problems and he lost his show. He was in a group of people that success destroyed. Sometimes self destructive tendencies are very strong. It’s difficult to be a success. You need a good support team to help you manage your life. Britney Spears comes to mind, so does John Denver. Even today after all these years I can remember his best moments on film with a smile. When we have made a hero of someone we can forgive them a lot.
I loved watching him in Airwolf as a kid. The show was never the same after he left. It seemed like he fell off the face of the earth and years later I caught that Howard Stern appearance. He was already well into his substance-abuse-filled obscurity and seeing him in that state was like an overdue reality check. It's also sad that his downward spiral caused lasting pain for those closest to him.
Sounds like to me it was deeper than what we will ever know or realize. The pain can be so deep & excruciating. That a person can feel hopeless that they will self medicate just to numb themselves & try to make it go away. SO THEY SUFFER IN SILENCE God rest his soul.
Correct,we never know what pain,and problems people have,I try not to judge,I sometimes need 🍫 sweet things to cope,I know it sounds stupid,but we all need something,it just depends on what it is ,that helps you to get through the day!!!!!😳🇬🇧🇬🇧🇬🇧🇬🇧
I met Jan Michael Vincent 1987 in a bar in Malibu in which he had gotten in fight a couple of days before and came in to speak to the manager to straighten things out. He looked familiar but I couldn't place him until someone told me who he was when he came back to the bar he sat next to me , and we started to talk and I asked him if I could buy him a drink , but refused because what he drank was very expressive, but I bought him one anyway ,it turned out to be a triple straight shot of the most expensive vodka they .I remember him as very friendly and personable and sorry how he
I'll always recall Jan Michael Vincent in his highlight days of Airwolf and other notable features I saw him in: The Mechanic, White Line Fever, Big Wednesday, Defiance, Hit List, The Final Heist and Deadly Heroes. Losing him was like losing a part of my childhood that has greatly impacted me ever since. I really wished that he never let his personal afflictions hinder his future prospects as he definitely possessed far better standards in his acting presence than the lacklustre actors of today. Forever Missed 😢 (1944/5 - 2019)
You need to get your facts and perspective straight. The man had a 39 year career, in an industry where most people who try out, don't make it 6 months. He had drug and alcohol problems, but that is nothing unusual in Hollywood. Especially in the 60s, 70s and 80s. He admitted he never was keen on being a star. If you gave him a choice, he'd have stayed on the beach. He was a free spirit type, who was more inclined to do what he wanted. That was his nature, and he lived his life at 110%. He spent his final years living the quiet life with his wife, and enjoying life. The man even made a convention or two and touched base with long time fans. Making him out like he's some piteous soul is just a freaking insult to him, and a career that was easily 100 times better than most actors and actresses experience.
The Mechanic was a good movie, I saw him on episode a Geraldo Rivera talk show where Geraldo said repetitively that he would help him with counseling or "Treatment" meaning drug or alcohol, if he needed it, Jan also said repetitively that he was ok and didn't need it implying he had kicked the addiction, sadly it wasn't true.
I knew Jan, as he called himself. He was a delightful and decent guy. I met him, in Avalon Catalina Island. I was delivering for a Sub-Contractor. During the early '80's. I was making some deliveries like I said. I was approaching the one-way Alley and just folded my Driver's mirror. Just about to pull through the Alley When stepped in front my White and Brown lettered UPS Truck! I yelled at him, not knowing who he was or cared who! When he just then hopped into the truck! Before I could finish cussing him out ! He said he was Jan! I proceeded to tell him, I didn't give a shot! Then his voice became, distinctively familiar! Yes! He was! Jan Michael Vincent! I had been a Crew Chief on F-4's in the USAF! He is an amazing man! Not very well understood! I told him how honored I was to meet him! That I was glad, I hadn't ran him over! We met later, I gave him a tour of Avalon had some food and played pool! We had some beers as well. 🎱. He wasn't a Drunk or rude ever! Told me about some personal things, as well. He seemed like a younger man who was with a target on his back. When you are riding high! Many want to ride your Coat-tails up or down. As long as the Gold-digging is ripe! He always had good things to say about People he knew. Only they often didn't give him the same. How unfortunate! I had similar run ins! I broke the Deliveries for UPS Twice! Only to have Two Industrial Engineers come over to check how and what way I was doing things! I had longer hair, a mustache and wore a L.A. Raiders baseball hat and cut-off shorts. Apparently Hollywood is cold blooded and can be a vile place. It's true. It's not who you know, it's how they premiere you then make others believe what they want you to believe. It's still going on. Just ask Trump! Apparently, the Communists are more than just Charlie Chaplin.
"Airwolf" was one of my favorite 80's tv series. Sexy man piloting a sexy helicopter. He betrayed his body, his body had enough and it definitely did show in his later years. Surprisingly, he made it to age 74.
I watched an interview given by Ernest Borgnine and he was asked about Jan-Michael Vincent. One particular thing he mentioned was about a gift that JMV had. He said that JMV would open his script, briefly look at it, close it, and have the entire thing memorized. Ernest said he asked JMV how he did that and JMV just shrugged.
I think the one person who was saddened by his death was his Airwolf co-star Alex Cord. I think Alex really liked him. I hope he finally beat his demons. RIP Jan.
I was a huge fan of Jan-Michael Vincent after seeing, Tribes and then The Mechanic. It was noticeable to me that he stated to age hard and fast from one season to the next during Air Wolf. I remember pointing that out to my wife one time that the handwriting was already on the wall. It was sad to see.
I like him if only some could or he would listen to but he. Did have a very home when he was with uncles and that at least he took his. Dad. Rip love u was hell man
@@audreyadkins1549 I'm sorry I did not mean no disrespect for your dad I'm sure he was a good man it's just so sad to see so many like him go down that road I hope he rest in peace cuz I really did enjoy his acting and I had a huge crush on him when I was young
I prefer to subscribe to, & believe he must pay for abusing the genetic benefits he was blessed with & knowingly chose to abuse let alone became a woman beater
damn that's a shame he passed away so soon. I loved this guy. When I was 15, he was my idol, the bad ass ,Stringfellow Hawke on Air Wolf. I have all his Air Wolf episodes. Regardless of him being discredited, He will always be one of my favorites. RIP, my God keep you.
It's no wonder he became famous. He was beautiful and talented. It's so sad his life declined in such an awful way. I'm from Hanford, his home town. We still are very proud of him.
Hollywood types dabbling in drugs and alcohol is one thing. Seeing his once handsome countenance in the photos progressively destroyed from way WAY too much booze; Sad.
I have read that alcohol abuse can drastically change your looks. I know from personal experience. My brother was very good looking in his teens, 20s and 30s. He looked like Jim Morrison from the band The Doors but, because he was a heavy drinker, he didn't keep is good looks for very long. So sad. Now in his 50s he's got many health issues and depression.
@@caty9995 You are correct, and the rapid aging process that alcohol causes is irreversible even if you get on the wagon for the rest of your life. That damage to your face is no joke. I work with a women who is an alcoholic but has been on the wagon for many years and she looks at least 10 to 15 years older then other women her age. I was floored when I found out she was 51 because I thought she was pushing 70.
I saw The World's Greatest at the movie theater in my hometown when it came out in 1973 , at age 14 years old. What a shame his life was dominated by drugs and alcohol.
After admiring this guy for years, and finding out he lost a leg, I decided to do some research to try, and contact him. I learned he lived with a woman outside a small town in the south. After doing some more digging, I was actually able to get an email address for him. I didn't know if it was his real email, but wrote a letter to him anyway thanking him for all he had done in the entertainment industry, and let him know that there were still fans out there who were wishing the best for him. Several weeks later I received an email from him, thanking me for contacting him. His response was so thoughtful, and from the heart, I'm glad I did reach out to him. RIP JMV.
Thanks for watching!
Thanks for that comment. It was sweet. Sadly, I was wallowing in the tragedy of his decline and the fact that he responded to you courteously brought some measure of comfort. I hope he is finally at peace.
That's a great story. I love hearing things like this. I too was a massive JMV fan as a kid. Do you remember him in a movie called Shadow of the Hawk?
@@FactsVerse Your reply was idiotic - shows you dont read the comments and just cut and past responses. Shame on you... no interest in the topic of your own video.. just in it for what ???
@@seanprice2990 I also recommend the movie "Tribes"
I was born in 63 , so by the time he made it big I was a big fan. I'm sorry to see how his last years went. I had no idea he lost a leg. RIP old trooper. You will be remembered for your good days not the bad. Great video , thank you kindly Kevin 🙏
my dad used to talk to Jan and was a friend of his. My dad used to bowl at the "Kings County" bowl in Hanford Ca. My dad use to tell our family how nice he was in conversation. It's a tragic story, not one that I'll ever forget. I remember it as though it was yesterday. My dad was just a bowler along with my mom. Jan was taken with my dad and treated him as a true friend.
Thank you for sharing a part of your life and your dad's too. We're happy to know that Jan-Michael has a true friend in your dad. He will be badly missed.
@@FactsVerse God bless you my friend,.
Crashed at my house in Laguna Beach back in late 90s.He was in bad shape.Met him at his peak years early.Through all his suffering he remained a great guy!
"great guy" + wife beater
This one of the saddest Hollywood stories. This guy had the looks and fortune on aspiring actors wished they had. He bottom out badly. My father always talks about this as one of the worst tragedies in Hollywood and I can't agree more.
A tragedy he brought on himself. Plus, it sounds like he was a douche Guys who go to bars looking for fights are usually the worst.
Damn sad. The first movie I saw him in was "Tribes" and I was convinced this guy was the epitome of cool. Success has ruined more people than failure. RIP Jan-Michael....
Airwolf for me back in the mid 80's!
"Success walks hand in hand with failure along Hollywood Blvd..." Celluloid Heroes
I remember him from Winds of War...
Tribes... great movie
First movie I saw him in was The World's Greatest Athlete.
Before Tom Cruise there was Jean Michael Vincent. Gosh!... I had the biggest crush on him during the time of Air Wolf! And I was just a little girl. 😚 How sad his life was. Rest in peace Jean. Thank you for letting me knew you. And many thanks to you for posting this. I've actually forgotten about him. May his soul rest in peace.
Airwolf was probably my favorite show as a kid
Definitely one of my favorites too!
It was one of my favorites too. Jan-Michael was a fantastic TV/low-budget actor. It's sad the toll his addictions took on.
Hahah. My mistake. He also was in big-budget movies.
Mine to
Me too, I liked him and I liked Ernest Borgnine since McCails Navy, a perfect team like beauty and the beast.
This story is so so heartbreaking, addiction is such a horrible disease and so hard to break the hold it has over you. I honestly didn't know this was Jans story until today RIP my friend and thank you for you for your contribution, I truly hope you're at peace now x
Absolutely tragic...if this doesn't deter anybody from taking drugs or abusing alcohol, then I don't know what will. This guy was beautiful and ended up a wreck. It could have been avoided....I loved him in The Mechanic with Charlies Bronson..
i agree what a shame
He was fabulous in The Mechanic . A great movie 🎥!!
He was a very good looking young actor. I'm sorry he suffered w/addiction and lost his leg along the way. RIP Jan-Michael.🌹💗
Sadly, he did. May Jan-Michael find peace 😥
You're sorry? He did this to himself!
Considering the way he lived, it is a wonder he made it to age 74.
I agree.
Nah... As a critical care nurse I can tell you from experience -- NOTHING kills a drug addict til their body finally goes to zero. They're used to the abuse and it takes alot/long time (decades, usually) to push them over the edge.
For REAL! Sad. ☹️
I'm surprised he lasted as long as he did. So Sad. He had a Great Career .
@@QuantumMechanic_88 funny !
Airwolf was one of my favorites growing up. So many great shows back then...A Team, Miami Vice, Incredible Hulk, Dukes Of Hazzard.
Us too! Thank you so much for bringing back memories. What other types of video would you like to see?
We can add to the great list the KNIGHT RIDER
“The Mechanic” with Charles Bronson was a great movie
It still is.
Remember that part where the girl slashed her own wrists,then asked Charles Bronson and Jan Michael Vincent how long it would take to die,thinking they would help her,since she appeared to just want attention?...And they just walked out and left her there? Wow.
@@jaycoppola4324 It might have been better if they didn’t kill each other so that there could have been several movies. Bronson and Jan Michael Vincent had good chemistry
Absolutely!!
Yeah, man, they tried to re-do that one with Jason Statham, and it's a good movie, but our Charlie really nailed it with his original version, a real classic. However, it is truly sad to see how things panned-out for Jan M. Vincent; he was to all intents an purposes a good guy, a hard worker, a great entertainer, he made a lot of movies, tv shows, helped put food on plates & clothes on the back of the many people on the other side of the camera who work as hard to make those things come together, he made his contribution to life and the lives of the many people that he worked with, so, in my book he was good fella, who fell victim to the people who introduced him to a narcotic called Cocaine; followed by some traffic accidents, that anybody can unintentionally fall victim to, and the long term after effects of those injuries, so, that's not his fault, that happens to many; eg. . . . . princess Diana had one, and she died, so, who's to say who is to blame; in life shit happens; some die, some don't; but the ones who don't get killed by it end up suffering from the aftereffects of their injuries, just like our Jan did, I don't blame him for that or anything, I only see him as having been another of endless millions of unfortunate people who have accidents in life; eg, again, another one, Amy Winehouse; introduced to alcohol, a narcotic, over-exposure, stress, result, she died on her floor face down, full of alcohol; another example, George Michael, found dead in bed on Christmas day; Why? the guy simply wanted to be dead; Robin Williams; again, the poor man simply wanted to end it all for most of (if not all of) his adult life; Why? God knows, it's something that we mere mortals can never really fathom-out, he just wanted to die. So many entertainers have checked-out in mysterious circumstances, either drug or alcohol related, or plain outright suicide with a bottle of tablets; you just can say what it is with some people; many just want out; often for no apparent rhyme of reason. Look at the state that Mickey Rourke has gotten into at various times in his life; who knows what makes him tick, go figure; it is what it is, and I'll say it again, in life, shit happens !!!!!
I remember him well growing up. He was a golden child in Hollywood. I think you better have your psychology pretty healthy to survive that type of temptation. Us mere mortals can never understand what people like him are exposed to. It unfortunately caught up with him as it does to all that go down that path with drugs and alcohol. He made his mark but not as big as it could've been.
It's really sad, Brian
You also left out one of the greatest surfer movies he ever did Big Wednesday. What a sad way to die drugs will destroy your life same thing with alcohol
He was my sons hero back in the 80’s so sad but respected
He ruined his career with alcohol just like his character in Big Wednesday.
I always thought he played that part so we'll, but looks like he wasn't really acting.
Yeah i watched this to see the Big Wednesday mention .... nadda
Definitely a cautionary tale !
Addiction is a tragic disease. But Jan-Michael's beauty and his natural acting skill brought joy and smiles to so many of us. And BIG WEDNESDAY is *epic*.
I loved Airwolf and the illusion of Stringfellow Hawk. Then he seemed to disappear. I was busy with my own life and raising a family, it was years later when I saw the "old" Jan Michael and was aghast at the difference. I'm not surprised at how quickly he rose to the top but his decline was a sad thing to behold.
Great picks and thanks for sharing your thoughts 💗
His choice
It’s crazy what humans will do to themselves.
No it isn't. We have always been that way BUT today (within my lifetime) we have developed better systems and knowledge to deal with addiction and all the related issues.
Go figure, we're pretty much responsible for what happens to us.
Yes...addiction is NOT a disease. It's being stupid enough to jump in a hole thinking you can keep climbing out. That includes cigarettes.
@@ttnnaples8060; I think it's like depression, you don't really understand the depth of what you are experiencing. People should be treated medically, and not with prison.
@@ttnnaples8060 its not always stupid people. Sometimes it stems from someone trusting their doctor for a serious problem. And some people are more likely to become addicted.
When I was in high school my girlfriend’s grandmother told us about a movie she saw called “Buster and Billy”. I watched it and really liked it. Jan Michael Vincent was one of the top heartthrobs at that time.
check out The Mechanic and White Line Fever too if you can find them, he was great in those
@Michael six I will check them out!
Fondly remembered, dearly missed.... He deserved a much better life.
Myself and a friend met Jan Michael Vincent at a bar in Malibu while traveling there from Vancouver Canada he was nice and friendly this is when he still had his good looks. He chatted with us for awhile. We were thrilled.
I saw him on the Stern show late night years ago and he was so drunk . I could only feel deep pity and sadness. What a talent.
Indeed. This guy had it all and had the tools to became a major Hollywood star
I was so in love with him in the 80's. He had a good run.Thirty years in the business and being that successful is nothing to sneeze at. At some time you've got to pay the piper though.
Makes 2 of us!! I was so in love with him!!! 💖💖💖
Wow. I remember finding him gorgeous in the 70s. Then I guess I forgot all about him. He had his ups and downs like all of us, no one is perfect. Thanks for letting us know his story
I met Jan Michael Vincent when I was 19 living on Maui in 79 ! He was so handsome and charming and a down to earth nice guy ! He did love to party ! We drank many tequilas and he kissed me good-bye ! I will always have fond memories of him .... so sad his life ended up the way it did .. he really was beautiful...... ❤
Cool. Only a kiss??? 🙃
I really liked his character in Airwolf...it was a favorite show of mine. He was lucky but didn't know it, and that is truly sad. His addictions are an insight into his search for something in life that wasn't fulfilled and that is regrettable for such a talented person.
Loved Airwolf also
Us too. It was one of Jan-Michael's best roles. What other types of videos would you like to see?
It's really hard to imagine what it would feel like to be the upside of a *gifted*, literal 1 in a million chance. It was winning the lottery without even having to buy the ticket. You walk on a beach, some dude comes up to you, hands you a successful fame-and-fortune career with no hurdles to entry, and all you have to say is yes.
I always wondered what happened to him. I thought he was gorgeous. Looks like he was along the same lines as David Cassidy. Both were talented, handsome men. Had so much going for him, but the drugs and alcohol won in the end. Such a pity. RIP JMV
I gasped when I saw how much Jan had aged in such a short time. If his name wasn't with his picture, would not have known that was him. Drugs and alcohol are no joke. He's at PEACE NOW.
He was gorgeous! I remember him being in a movie called "Journey to Shiloh" with James Caan and an unknown actor named Harrison Ford. I dont remember the year, but he played Little Bit. I cried when he died, ( in the movie) because he was so handsome. He was really good in "Tribes ". I didnt know he had so many problems with drugs. He was the iconic "golden boy ", and could do no wrong.
He was one of the gorgeous young cowboys in that Western. Michael Sarrazin, Paul Peterson, and yes, even Harrison Ford. Loved that movie!
@@birdsfan57 I rewatched it yesterday. I discovered the plot was kind of ridiculous, but looking at the cities made it worth it!
@@juliadams42 If you can ever locate a copy of the long-defunct magazine, "Look", a sister publication to the "also-late" Life magazine, circa 1969/70, you will realize just what a gorgeous young guy he was. Provocative for its time, it featured him, his then-wife and young son, nude (top-half) on the cover. Yes, he was stunningly beautiful...
He was so hot and sexy.
Yes, I remember a movie Buster & Billie that Jan-Michael Vincent starred in early in his career. He was really a very good looking guy. Unfortunately for him, he seemed kind of tormented in his life with the substance abuse problems.
Another really, really good looking actor was Ken Wahl. He was in a popular series, Wiseguy. Wahl was also in several movies, one of them was Purple Hearts with Cheryl Ladd. I think because of an injury and a chronic pain situation, he gave up an acting career. I got the impression that Ken Wahl was happy to give up his acting career.
As a little girl, I had such a strong crush on him. He had everything, looks, talent and personality in his youth. For me, he was the 70s and 80s Brad Pitt. I loved the way he looked before he started drinking. I think he had that biological gene medical scientist talk about the one that makes a person highly susceptible to alcohol and drug addiction, like country singer Randy Traverse. Now, there's medication for this type of addiction that didn't exist back in those days. When he started his fall I hoped he would bounce back getting the right type of help. It was hard seeing his condition in later life. Losing him to alcohol addiction was a lost for the Hollywood industry and those of us hoping he would survive. R.I.P Jan-Michael. You're not forgotten.
Such beautiful words. Thank you so much for sharing part of your life and stay safe ❣
I was in high school when JMV was killing it.. those 'Buster and Billie', 'White Line Fever',, 'The Mechanic' days he was the coolest. It just seemed so easy for him. His life should be a lesson for everyone to what drugs & alcohol can do to someone. RIP-JMV.
Thank you for your beautiful message to Jan-Michael! What other types of video would you like to see?
This reminds me of how very human we all are. There was some hurt early on and famous or not we all want acceptance. I feel sad seeing anyone suffer and become a different person over time.
I’m reading so many posts of compassion toward those whose depression and anxiety led to addiction.
It makes a mother of a tormented child feel a little hopeful.
❤
I remember "The World's Greatest Athlete" as one of my favorite movies growng up. I can also recall seeing Jan -Michael's decline unfolding over the years. Truly is Tragic. The rebel in his blood embodied his being. I have been a pretty hard partier in my life, however, it never got to a point where I could not maintain the proper perspective. It's almost like one of those stories wherein one sells their soul for success and has to suffer when Satan calls. God bless his soul.
I watched that film as a teenager.
Sometimes a person who you think has it all, does not. I try and never be jealous of anyone. You don't know what kind of hell they are going thru. We all miss you, Jan. I hope you are at Peace.
I used to tell my daughter the same thing. You never know what hell a supposedly successful and happy person is going through. Had a friend in high school who I envied because she was a natural athelete and upbeat person. I found out, from her at our twentieth class reunion, that all through high school her father was sexually abusing her.
The first movie I saw him in was The World's Greatest Athlete, which I saw at an afternoon cinema. I was really young and had the biggest crush on him!! Throughout the years I saw his descent into alcoholism and drugs, and felt so sad about it. I pray he's at peace now. 💜🙏
He was just SO handsome when young! I remember being dazzled when I saw him in some old movie as a ghost, who appeared on the beach to romance a girl. And then, with Charles Bronson, as a hitman in training. Wow!
He was the Brad Pitt of his day! If you look at the two their features look very similar.
True. He really was
So what. Looks don’t exactly guarantee goodness, do they?
Agree on that
Definitely looks like Pitt or is that Pitt looks like him?
He was indeed!
Jan was a dear friend of mine for twenty years. We tried many times to get him sober. I visited him multiple times in various rehab facilities. He sometimes wanted to get sober, and other times, just wanted to keep drinking. He was in a Venice Beach rehab one time and I went to visit him and this young 19 or 20 year old boy who was in there kept sneaking out and getting alcohol and bring it into him, and one day I had Jan introduced me to the guy and I closed the door when he came in Jan's bedroom and walked right up to him and got in his face and told him if I found out if he did that again I'd beat his ass and then I kicked him out of the bedroom. I miss Jan that last woman he was with was a real piece of s***
I knew Jan back in the eighties when he lived in Ventura County. I thought that he was my age but he’s actually ten years older. I met him at The whale’s Tail in Channel Island Harbor. I went to his house and partied a few times. His girlfriend was helping him party then. I can’t remember her name though.
You were a good friend!! I met him when he filmed Damnation Alley in Arizona on location and took a picture with me I was all but 15 and a big fan. He was gracious to take the picture with me. He was very handsome!! RIP
@Johnny Boone Same here. So sorry for the loss of your friend. You are a good friend. Bless you sir...Airwolf was popular in my country at that time. Great show & actors. Unforgettable..💕
Btw who was that last woman with him? What year was that? Sorry i missed the train.
I loved Jan Michael Vincent. One of the most handsome men, especially in Hollywood. It’s a shame he was never able to beat his alcohol addiction. My Uncle was one of the nicest guys you’d e we meet, good looking, and highly intelligent. Unfortunately after WWII he became an alcoholic, and no matter how many lived ones and friends tried to help him. He continued to decline. When he would drink, his personality would do a 180, and he was very mean. My Uncle was in the 82nd Airborne in WWII and he obviously had PTSD, but little was known about it back then. Once out of the war he became a firemen and worked his way to Lieutenant, again very intellectual. Anyway over time his drinking became worse and worse , where he ruined his career and his wife divorced him taking their son with her. My Uncle was arrested for vagrancy in NY City and died in jail of supposed pneumonia. So many tried to help him, but he just couldn’t beat it. I know there are so many with the similar stories. Im sure Mr Vincent treasured your friendship and loved you. Im sorry fir your loss. We sure have a lot of movies to watch him in, and remember him. I always get excited when I see an old series and it has Mr Vincent in it. My favorite movie he was in is I believe Hooper, second runner up - The Undefeated. Although there are a few mentioned in this video I haven’t seen yet. Going to have to look those up.
Eventually what’s on the inside will show up on the outside. I have seen some stunningly beautiful men whose beauty disguised how full of rage and hate they were. When you’re young and beautiful the world will give you a pass. When you’re old and bitter, not so much. If people are mean and bitter when they’re drunk, they’re covert when they’re sober.
'Covert' ... what an excellent word for it.
I met Jan Michael at a car show in January of 1996 in Santa Clara ,CA. My younger brother and Vincent were almost identical in every way. My brother had a tragic ending. R.I.P.
Steve, tell me about your younger brother and that car show with Jan. If you want.
@@shirleymcmac8594 My deceased brother Chuck and I were big fans of Jan MV in the Buster/Billie time, mid-70's. Resemblance was unbelievable in every way, looks, habits etc. They say we all have a double out there.
Steve C: Sorry to hear that about your brother.
@@susanmccormick6022 Thank You, very kind person you are.
I cannot believe that I literally forgot about him and I've seen almost everything he's in; I'm usually very good at remembering those who've passed and I had no clue he died, still watching the video. Sad. He reminds me so much of Josh Hartnett from Pearl Harbour with Ben Affleck, wow...they look like they could have been brothers. RIP....now I remember, thank you for posting this.
I was a huge fan and later forgot about him, too. I recall that when he passed, it was not made public right away. The family waited till they were ready to share of his passing.
74 years old after all of that? Makes me feel better about my chances.
Lol! Same here, Bill!
True That
It's all in the genes. Throughout my life, I have been astonished at the longevity of people who should of died years ago, and even more surprised at the early deaths of some people, like my stepmother who lived a healthy lifestyle. Her mother died young.
Be careful overdose and you are done
Yeah, same here. I met a 26 year old semi professional swimmer this year. She suffered a stroke at the age of 26. You can try to prevent some things. But if fate decides its time, you can't do anything.
*How sad I never knew of his horrific story, praying that he's resting in peace!* 😢
There is an awesome interview with him on Howard Stern/ best ever. Appr 1997
John 3.16 "..
everyone who is taking a dirt nap, IS resting in peace !
I met him at the retirement party for the Army Guard Recruiter who managed to get him into the National Guard so he wouldn't have to go to Vietnam. It was at a Polynesian Restaurant. He got drunk, started harassing the stage dancers, and finally the Manager came over and told us that if we didn't get him under control he was going to throw us all out. The guy was definitely broken.
Poor Jan.I still feel if he & Bonnie could've stayed together,she would've pulled him thru.Such a shame.And he had to pass on my birthday!
how sad
He was a hero we ll always remember... We used to watch his tv show Air wolf with great enthusiasm here in Pakistan in our childhood in 80s... So sad to learn about his life history and tregic demise.
This tragedy resembles that of the late David Cassidy, who continued to abuse alcohol until his death. There was a sad documentary last year about him and showed his tragic flaws quite openly. In one of his final phone calls he admitted that he never quit alcohol but told everyone that he had. I treat addicts for a living and have observed that, at the very basis of the problem is the belief that they are not good enough, not worthy enough, etc. However, so many do have a successful rehab. Addiction is a complicated disease. R.I.P. both of them.
I am so glad you put his beginning 5o his end. Too many young people think it won't happen to them. So this gives them a reality check. The expectations put on actors to stay young, don't gain weight, don't do this or you must do that plays a lot on an actor's mental state. So sad.
Good point, Ka Bur!
As a teen, I kept a photo in my bedroom of him. He was very handsome and a good actor in his early days. So sad that he fell into addiction. I always wondered what happened to him and this was heartwrenching to run across. RIP MJV
Glad to hear that you had Jan-Michael's photo, thank you for sharing a part of your teen life ♥
One of the most beautuful males to ever grace Hollywood. Fell in love with him when he starred in the teen-oriented movie Western "Journey to Shiloh" back in the late 1960's, and crazy-crushed on him with my high school girlfriends when he starred in the ABC Movie of the Week, "Sandcastles" in the early 1970's. Stardom and Hollywood is a curse for so many. He was, sadly, another victim of both...
I worked @ Universal in 1985 - 86 and on the show "Air wolf". Everyone on the show knew he had a serious problem. All around his trailer were empty, crumpled-up cocaine / crystal bindle wrappers. He wouldn't spend much time outside the trailer and it wasn't my place to say anything to him as I was just part of the production crew.
On the flip side though, I really liked Ernest Borgnine and found him to be a very personable fellow. He knew, but wouldn't discuss Jan's problems, he would just shake his head when I would bring the subject up. I miss Mr. Borgnine and the time we spent talking during lunch breaks.
He was great in the dirty dozen.
He was a huge crush of mine during his Air Wolf days. I remember it used to be aired Tuesday nights and I would always make sure I finish all my homework so I could enjoy Air Wolf. Each time I joined competitions like essay and art contests, I would use JMV as pen name or put JMV on top of my paper or cartolina.
The amazing fact is that he lived to be 74.
Right 74 is a lot of years.
That's what surprised me the most -- how long he lasted. What a waste
He did not show appreciation for his life. He could have changed after surviving a near-fatal accident.
Exactly what I was going to say
@@leebowens2631 If you factor in how fast time flies, it's not alot of years.
He was very handsome and learned to act very well. So Sad and he was so BLESSED but didn't learn to get help OBVIOUSLY!!!
It's really sad, free tob
@@FactsVerse + Its a pity he did that to himself.They are finding out now that many of these addictions can come from bi- polar disorders. Terrible shame he couldn't have been saved from the wrath of this horrible substance abuse.
He was totally AWESOME in the "The Mechanic" with Charles Bronson. One of my favorite Jan-Michael Vincent movies! And of course, Stringfellow Hawke was a legendary TV character.
I miss you Jan
Michael Vincent. Wish we could have made that brighter choice difference in your life back then. I'm so sorry you were all alone..
Guy was an utter legend and lived 10 of our lives.
I was a young teen when I happened on him on TV in a movie called "Sandcastles". When he came on screen, my first thought was, "god, he's beautiful!" My second was, "where do I know him from?" It bugged me for a while and finally hit me - he was on a kid's show I watched a number of years earlier called "The Banana Splits" - the little adventure series that was part of the show was really the only reason I watched. So sad to watch a life unravel like that. RIP, Jan-Michael.
Sandcastles was the first time I remember seeing Jan and he captured my heart I became a life long fan. I also remember seeing a photo of Jan & Wife Bonnie in either Life or Look magazine about new upcomers in Hollywood. They were both incredibly beautiful couple. So tragic how things turned out for him from middle age on. I will always remember that gorgeous young man he once was. Rest Easy Jan ❤
He got addicted and he just looked awful at the end.
who cares? Many of his kind still exist.
Everyone looks awful when they get older..
@Patricia Rivas "He looked awful at the end", no, to me, he looked just sad as hell. Surely he must have had SOMEONE who tried to tell him he looked sad as hell. I don't mean 'sad' sad, but rundown & worn out from life, maybe? It would be sad if he had no one to tell him this, just my humble opinion. Simply unbelievable !!
He had a good time
He was such a heartthrob back in the day. Loved the show Airwolf. It's a shame he got so sick and died so young. He is missed.
He actually held his own but tragically succumbed to his dark side. He was beautiful in his own fight. RIP Condolences to his loved ones
He was a beautiful actor that his talents went by the wayside is missed ♥️
Very sad. I had a huge crush on him when I was a teen. May he have peace in his heart and mind in his next life.
Thank you for your heartwarming message to Jan-Michael. He will be missed 😥
Sadly, it's not surprising Jan-Michael ended up like he did. Look how many actors end up battling demons they just can't overcome and just because you have a pretty face and you're a decent actor... it doesn't make you immune to all the excess & temptations Hollywood has to offer. But it's so sad when people can't fight & win the battle to stay straight... This reminds me so much of Dennis Wilson, probably because their similar age, love of California weather, the beach and love of Surfing... and BOTH, such GREAT looking guys & having no problems when it came to the ladies! Dennis had his demons also, however he was never mean or into getting in trouble with the law nor did he cause physical harm to ANYONE, except to himself... Dennis died tragically too young and Jan-Michael... He fought, but still seem to go downhill fast with no control & also no family support it looks like. Either way, no matter WHO you are addiction/abuse of any kind, drugs and alcohol especially, usually doesn't end well and hopefully now Jan-Michael is finally at peace. He was a good actor and he will always be remembered. Thanks for sharing!
🙏💜 RIP Jan-Michael
The Irish Girl Like your comment. Tks.
Everyone battles something. Some people are just weak and never learn from their mistakes. It has nothing to do with what they do, it is who they are. Remember, they are merely human beings.
But Dennis probably would have ended up much the same way, the only real difference between the two when it comes to substance abuse is Jan lived through his brushes with death because of his drinking and Dennis didn't. For those who don't know, he was diving off a friend's boat where his own boat had been repossessed by the bank, looking for trinkets and things he'd thrown overboard in the past. Problem was he'd come up after each dive and have some more drinks, and drowned before his friend knew he was in trouble.
As a Beach Boy fan,I totally agree.
He was absolutely gorgeous; the typical surfer guy. Too bad he got involved in drugs and alcohol. The downfall of many, both male and female. Too much money can ruin a career.
I never can understand how people can abuse their bodies like they do. Especially people who are blessed with great genes. I’m not religious and don’t need anyone to tell me, your body is your temple. You have nothing if you don’t have your health.
Everything came too easily to him.He wasn't disciplined.
It wasn’t the money that ruined him, it was how he used the money. The only thing the money did was allow him to buy better drugs and booze than he would have if he was poor. He was able to drink Wild Turkey and Stoli’s instead of MD 20/20.
@@rogerchoate8899 He had a disease called addiction.
It is weak & undisciplined I suppose you think the male anal orifice should be referred to as a mangina
I, along with millions of other girls, had a mad love for him. Until I heard that he thought women could also be used as punching bags. Then I just felt sorry for him.
He got lost,cautup in the money&goodtimes and could not see what he was doing,sad!!
that was the drugs he took he never meant to hurt his wife she forgave him after awhile knowing it was the drugs that made him do it
He was sexy.
I have always been a fan of Jan. I saw him in the mechanic, damnation alley and air wolf and recently saw him in white line fever. He was a great actor and admired him. RIP Jan you will be missed
We're glad to see another Patrick Swayze fan! Also, thank you for sharing your favorite films of him. What other types of videos would you like to see on our channel?
I graduated with Jan Michael Vincent in 1963 from Hanford Union High School in Hanford, CA. He was really popular in school. He dated a girl, who's last name was O'dell. , during school , who also graduated in 1963. Everyone thought they would end up getting married. To everyone's surprise, they never got married. They were both in Drama during High School. It didn’t surprise me that he went to Hollywood to become an actor! It really saddens me to see how his life so drastically changed! So, so sad!😢
It makes me so sad how his life developed. He had so much going for him.
Thank you so much for shedding more light about the life of Jan-Michael! He is badly missed. Which of his roles appealed to you the most?
HE IS NOT THE FIRST OR LAST PERSON TO BE DESTROYED BY,
DRUGS , LIQUOR AND ALCOHOL
Liquor and alcohol are one of the same..its like saying heroin,coke,pcp,meth and pills will kill you??????
@@greglaman9548 YOU TUBE POLICE OF ENGLISH LANGUAGE GO CHECK THE SCIENTIFIC EXPLANATION FOR BOTH
You're right Whitney Houston can testify to that, she did always say that it wasn't money it was the fame that changed them
@@melaniewalker5226 FLIM AND MUSIC INDUSTRY IS A VERY DIRTY HOLLOW WORLD FROM INSIDE,
OUTSIDE IT IS VERY GLAMOROUS,
BUT INSIDE MORE PROBLEMS THAN MONEY CAN HAVE THE SOLUTION TOO
Why Ask Me: you forgot the thing that probably led him to all the bad choices, HOLLYWEIRD. Good-looking guys like him are often hunted by gay moguls that are difficult or impossible to say no to if you want to keep working. So many have destroyed themselves because of it.
It was a eye opening video. There was something about him. . It hurt when he had problems and he lost his show. He was in a group of people that success destroyed. Sometimes self destructive tendencies are very strong. It’s difficult to be a success. You need a good support team to help you manage your life. Britney Spears comes to mind, so does John Denver. Even today after all these years I can remember his best moments on film with a smile. When we have made a hero of someone we can forgive them a lot.
John Denver?
He said when you drink you pay.Last scene of The Mechanic is a classic.
Air wolf was my favourite 80’s show as a kid.
I fancied him like crazy!
What a beautiful looking man he was.
RIP Jan ❤
I loved watching him in Airwolf as a kid. The show was never the same after he left. It seemed like he fell off the face of the earth and years later I caught that Howard Stern appearance. He was already well into his substance-abuse-filled obscurity and seeing him in that state was like an overdue reality check. It's also sad that his downward spiral caused lasting pain for those closest to him.
AIrwolf definitely is one of Jan-Michael's finest movies. Thank you for your kind message. May he find peace.
Sounds like to me it was deeper than what we will ever know or realize. The pain can be so deep & excruciating. That a person can feel hopeless that they will self medicate just to numb themselves & try to make it go away. SO THEY SUFFER IN SILENCE God rest his soul.
right. makes me wonder what happened to him
Correct,we never know what pain,and problems people have,I try not to judge,I sometimes need 🍫 sweet things to cope,I know it sounds stupid,but we all need something,it just depends on what it is ,that helps you to get through the day!!!!!😳🇬🇧🇬🇧🇬🇧🇬🇧
@@rondaallen7211 life got to him!!!🤗🇬🇧🇬🇧🇬🇧🇬🇧
@@rondaallen7211 I can tell you what happened to him...He was given a huge amount of money at a very young age.
@@craigbutler6243 yea, that doesn't make you an alcoholic.
Aged 74 in 2019
He looked terrible.. too late and no change ( sad )
Nothing surprises me...we all are given 'free will'...
I met Jan Michael Vincent 1987 in a bar in Malibu in which he had gotten in fight a couple of days before and came in to speak to the manager to straighten things out. He looked familiar but I couldn't place him until someone told me who he was when he came back to the bar he sat next to me , and we started to talk and I asked him if I could buy him a drink , but refused because what he drank was very expressive, but I bought him one anyway ,it turned out to be a triple straight shot of the most expensive vodka they .I remember him as very friendly and personable and sorry how he
Thanks for sharing this, John!
I'll always recall Jan Michael Vincent in his highlight days of Airwolf and other notable features I saw him in: The Mechanic, White Line Fever, Big Wednesday, Defiance, Hit List, The Final Heist and Deadly Heroes.
Losing him was like losing a part of my childhood that has greatly impacted me ever since.
I really wished that he never let his personal afflictions hinder his future prospects as he definitely possessed far better standards in his acting presence than the lacklustre actors of today.
Forever Missed 😢 (1944/5 - 2019)
😭😭😭
You need to get your facts and perspective straight.
The man had a 39 year career, in an industry where most people who try out, don't make it 6 months.
He had drug and alcohol problems, but that is nothing unusual in Hollywood. Especially in the 60s, 70s and 80s.
He admitted he never was keen on being a star. If you gave him a choice, he'd have stayed on the beach. He was a free spirit type, who was more inclined to do what he wanted. That was his nature, and he lived his life at 110%.
He spent his final years living the quiet life with his wife, and enjoying life. The man even made a convention or two and touched base with long time fans.
Making him out like he's some piteous soul is just a freaking insult to him, and a career that was easily 100 times better than most actors and actresses experience.
I agree with your assessment. He just wanted to be left alone to enjoy some peace and freedom.
@@2legit2Kwit well maybe he should have stopped beating up women....YA THINK?
HE WAS AN ASSHOLE....
@@rveeing802 So are you. So what's your point? LOL
Sandcastles is the first time I'd heard of him. I was seven and my older sister wouldn't let me change the channel!
The Mechanic was a good movie, I saw him on episode a Geraldo Rivera talk show where Geraldo said repetitively that he would help him with counseling or "Treatment" meaning drug or alcohol, if he needed it, Jan also said repetitively that he was ok and didn't need it implying he had kicked the addiction, sadly it wasn't true.
Good looking guy. RIP ❣️
I knew Jan, as he called himself.
He was a delightful and decent guy.
I met him, in Avalon Catalina Island.
I was delivering for a Sub-Contractor. During the early '80's.
I was making some deliveries like I said. I was approaching the one-way Alley and just folded my Driver's mirror. Just about to pull through the Alley When stepped in front my White and Brown lettered UPS Truck!
I yelled at him, not knowing who he was or cared who!
When he just then hopped into the truck! Before I could finish cussing him out ! He said he was Jan!
I proceeded to tell him, I didn't give a shot! Then his voice became, distinctively familiar!
Yes! He was! Jan Michael Vincent!
I had been a Crew Chief on F-4's in the USAF!
He is an amazing man! Not very well understood!
I told him how honored I was to meet him! That I was glad, I hadn't ran him over!
We met later, I gave him a tour of Avalon had some food and played pool!
We had some beers as well. 🎱. He wasn't a Drunk or rude ever!
Told me about some personal things, as well.
He seemed like a younger man who was with a target on his back.
When you are riding high! Many want to ride your Coat-tails up or down. As long as the Gold-digging is ripe!
He always had good things to say about People he knew. Only they often didn't give him the same. How unfortunate!
I had similar run ins!
I broke the Deliveries for UPS Twice! Only to have Two Industrial Engineers come over to check how and what way I was doing things!
I had longer hair, a mustache and wore a L.A. Raiders baseball hat and cut-off shorts.
Apparently Hollywood is cold blooded and can be a vile place.
It's true. It's not who you know, it's how they premiere you then make others believe what they want you to believe.
It's still going on. Just ask Trump!
Apparently, the Communists are more than just Charlie Chaplin.
He was from the Hippie Era, alot of that Generation died much younger than 74
Be sure and tell Jimmy Page and Keith Richards that breaking news.
they were murdered.
drugs and alcoholism
I knew several men who'd be 40 by now, but never will be. Because of cocaine and meth.
@@ANDROLOMA I noticed Jimmy Page has morphed into the Quaker Oats man....
I fell in love with him as a young girl.
The movie Sandcastles♥️♥️♥️
Such a tragedy🥺
Same here
Nancy Hamilton I think I still have it on VHS💕
@@vickiemouse236 wow. Wish I did
Nancy Hamilton if I had the machines I’d make you a copy♥️
That's the first movie I ever saw him in. Loved it❤
A handsome man who aged horribly, in part due to his vices.
Just to let you know when you use drugs and alcohol you do age poorly but who are we to judge anyone
Was so damn handsome!
Most people age horribly that's why so many flock to plastic surgery.
Yes, I agree. He should be the poster boy for why not to do drugs.
He probably smoked too , I have lost more to smoking
"Airwolf" was one of my favorite 80's tv series. Sexy man piloting a sexy helicopter.
He betrayed his body, his body had enough and it definitely did show in his later years.
Surprisingly, he made it to age 74.
He was great in the Mechanic with Charles Bronson. One of my favorite movies. Unfortunate and tragic end to a really good actor.
I watched an interview given by Ernest Borgnine and he was asked about Jan-Michael Vincent. One particular thing he mentioned was about a gift that JMV had. He said that JMV would open his script, briefly look at it, close it, and have the entire thing memorized. Ernest said he asked JMV how he did that and JMV just shrugged.
Buster & Billie is such a classic............
It was a good movie. Would've never thought that Whitey would go on to become Freddie Krueger?lol
I think the one person who was saddened by his death was his Airwolf co-star Alex Cord. I think Alex really liked him. I hope he finally beat his demons. RIP Jan.
One of my favorite actors in the 80's very sad story. RIP Jan-Michael Vincent
I was a huge fan of Jan-Michael Vincent after seeing, Tribes and then The Mechanic. It was noticeable to me that he stated to age hard and fast from one season to the next during Air Wolf. I remember pointing that out to my wife one time that the handwriting was already on the wall. It was sad to see.
Loved Jan in "Big Wednesday." So sad when people who are given such gifts just throw them away.
Airwolf! One of my favorite shows back in the day.
Mine. Too
It's so sad that he let his life turn out that way
I like him if only some could or he would listen to but he. Did have a very home when he was with uncles and that at least he took his. Dad. Rip love u was hell man
@@audreyadkins1549 He's not dead. He just went from the Physical to the spiritual. That's all.
@@audreyadkins1549 I'm sorry I did not mean no disrespect for your dad I'm sure he was a good man it's just so sad to see so many like him go down that road I hope he rest in peace cuz I really did enjoy his acting and I had a huge crush on him when I was young
I prefer to subscribe to, & believe he must pay for abusing the genetic benefits he was blessed with & knowingly chose to abuse let alone became a woman beater
Raven Blood you may be a bird brain
damn that's a shame he passed away so soon. I loved this guy. When I was 15, he was my idol, the bad ass ,Stringfellow Hawke on Air Wolf. I have all his Air Wolf episodes. Regardless of him being discredited, He will always be one of my favorites. RIP, my God keep you.
Thank you for the heartwarming message. Jan-Michael will be missed ❣
It's no wonder he became famous. He was beautiful and talented. It's so sad his life declined in such an awful way. I'm from Hanford, his home town. We still are very proud of him.
Hollywood types dabbling in drugs and alcohol is one thing. Seeing his once handsome countenance in the photos progressively destroyed from way WAY too much booze; Sad.
@Red Diver, VERY! 😕
I have read that alcohol abuse can drastically change your looks. I know from personal experience. My brother was very good looking in his teens, 20s and 30s. He looked like Jim Morrison from the band The Doors but, because he was a heavy drinker, he didn't keep is good looks for very long. So sad. Now in his 50s he's got many health issues and depression.
@@caty9995 You are correct, and the rapid aging process that alcohol causes is irreversible even if you get on the wagon for the rest of your life. That damage to your face is no joke. I work with a women who is an alcoholic but has been on the wagon for many years and she looks at least 10 to 15 years older then other women her age. I was floored when I found out she was 51 because I thought she was pushing 70.
Seeing all that makes me wanna slow way down !!
@@shawnhunt2332 ,
Sooner than later.
🙏😇😎🙌🙌🙌😺
Crushed on him when I was young after seeing, The World's Greatest Athlete.
Me too! He was a hottie. Sad he couldn't get rehabbed.
Didn't dude get attacked by a dog or something like that?!?
@@davidrice3337 in 2013.
I watched "the world's greatest athlete" hundred times as a kid. great film and he is fantastic. RIP JMV.
I saw The World's Greatest at the movie theater in my hometown when it came out in 1973 , at age 14 years old. What a shame his life was dominated by drugs and alcohol.
Jan-Michael will be missed 😢
I got to meet him in person when he made Greatest Athlete. In my home town.He was very friendly. I’ll never forget him.
Thank you for sharing your personal experience with Jan-Michael. We're glad that you had a nice time. He will be missed.
We need one Jan Michael Vincent to quadrant C and two Jan Michael Vincent's to quadrant E.