Jonathan Frid as Barnabas Collins and Kathryn Leigh Scott as Maggie Evans in a scene from "Dark Shadows," which aired 1966 to 1971. (Ben Martin)
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Jonathan Frid, left, as Barnabas Collins and David Selby as Quentin Collins on the gothic soap opera "Dark Shadows." (ABC)
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In this 1971 photo, Lara Parker, who played Angelique on "Dark Shadows," poses with a painting of Barnabas Collins. (Dan Curtis Productions)
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Jonathan Frid as Barnabas Collins in 18th century garb, left, and aged to the vampire's true 175 years, right, in 1970 publicity images from the soap opera "Dark Shadows." (Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer)
LinkJohnny Depp said the world has lost “a true original” with the passing of Jonathan Frid, the darkly debonair Canadian actor who played vampire Barnabas Collins in the melodramatic and macabre soap opera “Dark Shadows.”
Depp grew up as an ardent fan of “Dark Shadows” and that passion led to the film version remake, which reaches theaters May 11 with Depp as a key producer and also starring in the role made famous by Frid. Director Tim Burton also brought Frid and other original series cast members in for cameos in the movie, giving Depp a chance to share the screen with an idol of his youth.
Johnny Depp at the Cannes Film Festival in 2011. (Getty)
So as news spread Thursday that Frid had died late last week — on Friday the 13th, no less – Depp was balancing the bittersweet subplots of a life that could last 87 long years but end one month shy of a final shining career moment.
In a conversation that stretched over a series of emails, Depp said it was clear last year on the London set of the “Dark Shadows” film that Frid had reached a fragile time in his health. “Very sad,” Depp said of the news of Frid’s passing in a hospital in his hometown of Hamilton, Ontario.
“Jonathan Frid was the reason I used to run home from school to watch ‘Dark Shadows,’” Depp said in an email during a break on the set of Gore Verbinski’s “Lone Ranger” in Arizona. ”His elegance and grace was an inspiration then and will continue to remain one forever more. When I had the honor to finally meet him … [he] generously passed the torch of Barnabas.”
Last year, on the set of “Shadows,” Depp talked about his youth in Miramar, Fla., and the influence of Frid on ”this young kid” who had an outsider spirit and adored the way “Dark Shadows” transported him to “some other dimension I had never seen before.”
The show’s setting was Maine — pretty different from the sun-beaten suburb of South Florida – but Depp felt such an affinity for the forlorn Barnabas that he borrowed some of his gestures and phrases when he was young. That connection is intriguing considering the amount of time that Depp would later spend inside the skulls of eccentric lost souls. Frid may have been the bright north star that led Depp into a career of spooky mansions and gothic superstardom, which would explain why Depp was giddy when he met Frid for the first time. Barnabas, Depp pointed out, did not disappoint that day. ”As elegant and magical,” Depp remembered, “as I had always imagined.”
– Geoff Boucher
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my favorite vampire of all time,and with christopher lee and bella lugosi that's saying something,darn shame i just heard about it,i have a ring just like his and i wear it all the time! sleep well Barnabas sleep well!
yes, 3 greats….and let's not forget that anonymous skorzkezy vampire of that classic made for tv record breaker in the early '70s ''the night stalker' played by barry atwater and starring darren mcgavin.
My parents had barry Atwater–the night stalker vampire actor at my house for dinner!! His sister (mrs more) lived across the street!! i will never forget it!! he was great!!
Only the beeautiful Jonathon Frid could choose his day of passing. He died on a Friday the 13th, also passing only 5 short days prior to the 45th anniversary of his Barnabas' return to Collinwood. Barnabas was my first crush, and to this day, none of these cute high school vampire crushes do not move like Barnabas did. My dear Mr. Frid, I miss you so much. I know you wont be coming back via creepy wooden coffin, so I'm glad that you will see Burton's "Dark Shadows" from "the winged serphs in Heaven" and may they "covet" you always.
I had found a ring last year that is like Barnabas' too.I still want that beautiful cane he used too.
Wow. Two greats so similar to each other–Depp and Frid!!! We will miss you Jonathan! Frid was also the reason I ran home from school–to watch "Dark Shadows!!" and I am not afraid to say that I still watch it sometimes!!!
DARK SHADOWS was a SOAP OPERA not a Funny Joke as this movie appears to be !! I grew up with the original with Jonathon Frid and I think it is a Mockery of the original and shame on Johhny Depp for doing it.However, that is my opinion. Let all the 50 and over respond and see what they think. I would not pay dime to see it at the Theatre.
Same here.
The world has lost a true artist. Godspeed, Jonathan.
Godspeed. I found him amazing Jonathan Frid. I too ran home everyday from School to watch Dark Shadows because of Jonathan as well. Very attractive for an older man indeed. Barnabas Collins (Jonathan Frid) and an awesome actor. I use to dream of having him bite my neck back then. Godspeed to an amazing actor indeed. We will miss you but you'll never be forgotten.
Jonathan Frid passed away – or did he?!!
I loved Dark Shadows and all the character interactions (Barnabas/Julia/Angelique, etc.)…I only missed one episode the last 4 years of the show! God rest Jonathan Frid's soul-and many thanks to his family and friends for sharing this wonderful man with all of us these many years!
barnabas collins was the best.i love watching dark shadows has a teenager.I loved jonathan frid
Shame that there isn't a photo of Frid and Depp meeting….passing of the torch. RIP Mr Frid….you made a lasting impression on a entire generation…thank you!
Go to the Dark Shadows Facebook page…I think there are a couple photos of the old cast with the new cast.
there are a couple of photos of Johnny & Jonathan Frid meeting on the set along with the three other
original cast members in Kathryn Leigh Scott's new book "Dark Shadows: Return to Collinwood."
There is, if you find a copy of "Return to Collinwood" by Kathryn Leigh Scott. It was just published, and there's a few photos of Frid on the set of the new movie, and his first meeting with Depp. I got my copy from Amazon
Thank you Mr Depp for your kindness and being able to tell him what so many would love to have told him and never got the chance
I am Jonathan (John) Frid’s nephew. Reading
What Mr. Depp has said about my Uncle has lifted my heart in these sad days following my Uncle’s death.
Thank you
I too was one of those who ran home from school to see Barnabas. I was in high school, and my friend and I got tickets to see Jonathan in summer stock and talked my parents into driving us down state to see him in person. I still have the photos and autographed Dark Shadows soundtrack album to prove it! Your uncle was a big part of my life then.
Your uncle provided such wonderful memories for those of us who grew up loving Barnabas Collins. I am truly saddened by his passing, but glad that we have his wonderful legacy that will live on. My deepest condolences to the family.
So sorry for your loss, and ours. He will always be known as Barnabas in Dark Shadows, and so glad he embraced it. Also happy you see what Johnny is doing as a tribute and not a farce.
I had the privilege of meeting your uncle at a dramatic reading he gave in upstate NY about 20 years ago. He was a lovely, gracious man who took the time to sign autographs and chat with all of his fans. He will be missed. …a true gentleman and legendary actor!
We all hope Jonathan knew how much he was liked and respected. I got to meet him and treasure that memory as a highlight to my life. He was gracious that day treating everyone like they were the star of the show and he was there to please. To you , his family our condolences for your very personal loss, but the Jonathan we loved, (through his work, is still with us) lingers still, engaging new 'fans".
i met your uncle several times thru the yrs, as a fan. He was erudite, elegant , funny and somewhat sarcastic if necessary. A treasure to be around, I'll miss him forever.
I too ran home from school to watch Dark Shadows like almost every other kid growing up back then. Even though he may not have known it at the time, your uncle played a big part in the youth of an entire generation. I feel as if I lost a piece of my childhood with his passing and I am sure I speak for others as well. I am very sad for this loss. I only hope he knew how much we were captivated by Dark Shadows and Barnabas Collins and the influence he had over my generation. God speed. Mr. Frid and thank you.
your uncle was great as barnabus. i was luckt to meet him in cleveland in 1988, at supermans 50th birthday celebration( parade,convention) which sci-fi/horror/fantasy was also included. he had an one man show doing dramatic readings. i loved seenig and hearing that and see him in person. i met him after the show and he signed a barnabus vampire photo which i still have and cherish. may he R.I.P. he made many fans happy.
I loved your uncle as Barnabas Collins, and also in his lesser known role as Bramwell Collins. My condolences for your loss, and best wishes to you.
I had the honor of meeting your uncle twice in my life and will never forget the short time I had to speak with him. I volunteered at a ds convention one year and got to spend an evening with him and other volunteers at a private gathering, he was as gracious as he was kind. He embodied a complicated character as Barnabas and no one could have portrayed him as your uncle,,,and never will. He is the reason we see all these vampire tales on tv and movies today. I grieve for you and your family and the world at this time, sir. He was a great man and a master at his craft…He actually shaped my young mind to try to understand the missunderstood..
I am a severely disabled writer and journalist, who was very different to people in those days. He told me personally, that each of us has the capacity to move forward with pride and that whatever I do in life, do it to the best of my ability. I have tried to do that with compassion for others. Be at peace, Mr Frid, you will not be forgotten.
Your uncle was a wonderful man on many levels, having met him several times, as a fan. Talented, funny, and ruled a room to be sure. He definitely knew what he wanted and wasn't shy about it, in my experience. Loved, loved LOVED that man. Rest in peace, John Herbert Frid.
I loved Jonathan Frid. What a wonderful actor. I was one of the kids that ran home every day to watch the show. When they put it on again in the nineties, I watched it every day. Rest in peace Mr Frid. You will be fondly remembered and sadly missed
Thank you for sharing this, and a great man with the rest of us.My mother has the old books and album, (with the photos included).This is one of our families most treasured possesions.Your uncle was an amazing actor.
Between him and david selby they made my day. I never wanted to miss even 1 episode… Even after all this years I still think of them often…..
So if Depp has such respect for the man, why does his new movie crap all over the man's memory by turning Barnabas into a buffoon?
You've already seen the movie? Funny, it's not May 11th.
No, but we've obviously all seen the trailer. 'Nuff said.
Let's not compare apples to oranges here. But there was alot of humor in the original series that most of us didn't get at the time, being tweenagers in love with Quentin or Barnabis. Do not diss this movie yet. I think Jonathan Frid and many other cast members might find this a valuable endeavor. Johnny's love of the series as well as Michelle Pfeiffer's are hope enough for me. I can't think of a better actor to portray Barnabus than Johnny Depp.
You don't need to see the whole movie to know what they have done to the character and the show in general. It was never a comedy and shouldn't have been remade into one. Why does every tv show remade into a movie have to ruined by making it a comedy if it wasn't one originally?
I doubt that I will go see the new movie because I so loved the original series and I do not like the trailers that I've seen because of the comedy-Johnny Depp is always great-it's not so much him but the movie itself!
Not! Johnny will make a great Barnabas, and Jonathan was an actor playing a role, there isn't a Barnabas in real life. Besides, Jonathan was probably thrilled someone with Johnny's acting ability was going to carry on the Dark Shadows and Barnabas story. I think if you bother going to see the movie, it won't turn out the way you describe at all. And try to get a sense of humor on your way to theater.
I have only seen the trailers and that's what it looks like to me too… so I've decided not to compare either the cast nor the contents.
I agree – it is a mockery of the show and I do not like it.
I so agree with you, Sharon
Yes!! Johnny loved the series and I doubt Jonathan Frid wanted to only be remembered as Barnabus Collins as did David Selby want to only be remembered as Quentin Collins. Or many other actors who were typecast. Let us all remember the story not who played what!
I don't think it is a mockery at all. I loved this series when I was 11 years old. I watched reruns as an adult and still liked it, but realized how hokey it really was. I think the movie only improves on the original and doesn't forget or mock the series at all (which it could if so desired because it wasn't the best in terms of dramatic television series, but it was certainly a first). I think adding humor to the original is appropriate. I guess I don't understand the thought that the movie is a mockery. The show was never something the producers ever thought would be taken seriously when it was made. Just some great actors turned that around.
If Jonathan Frid felt that the new movie would "crap all over" him then he, nor any of the original characeters, would not have particiapated in it. Most of the originals have cameos including Frid in the film according to the articles I've read.
Barnabas was not a boffuun but had quite the off-the-wall sense of humor (very dry) and I for one am glad that Tim Burton and Johnny Depp have captured that.
If you had bothered to read some of the late Mr. Frid's quotes over the years you would know that the man had a wonderfully dry sense of humor. A professional as he was would have read the script of the upcoming remake of "Dark Shadows". He would have known going in that it was much more light-hearted than the original and obviously he had no problem with it as he did the cameo-so why should you have a problem with it? You're judging a film before it even comes out. A trailer doesn't always tell the tale.
Good question-can anyone answers it?
i totally agree if you want a totally crappy remake of any movie get tim burton and johnny depp exaMPLES INCLUDE WILLY WONKA ALICE IN WONDERLAND PLANET OF THE APES NOW DARK SHADOWS I HAd such high hopes the movie would be as good as the movie house of dark shadow tim burton is so preoccupied wit being different until he usually misses the mark
From the Dark Shadows record album –
I'll be with you always. Ever. Forever. Eternally bonded, never apart.
Jonathan will be forever in our hearts.
Jonathan Frid was my first vampire crush. He started it all….
mine as well! been watching old episodes lately.
Jonathan Frid transcended the soap opera medium and the vampire genre to make Barnabas Collins into a sympathetic character. Needless to say, he'll be missed.
i support this film, and really have not been this excited for a film in a looooooooooooong time! to heck with the naysayers! give it an honest chance!
plus i think that cameo scene will strike me as very touching and beautiful now.
Jonathan Frid made Dark Shadows worth watching. He was a great actor. I loved this soap. Johnny Depp has tall shoes to fill but I think he will do Jonathan Frid proud because he too is a great actor. R.I.P. Jonathan "Barnabas" Frid!!
I was only in grade school, but always rushed home to see the show. And for those that think the movie slurs Jonathon…apparently he didn't think so, or he wouldn't have made the cameo.
I met Jonathan Frid when I worked at the Manhattan bank where he had some accounts in 1968. He was truly a gentleman and an exeptional person.
I too raced home from school to see dark shadows. My neighbor would barely make it int time for the opening credits. Her mom would have the tv channel on for us when we rushed in the door. I just recently started watching the whole series on NetFlix. I was so excited I found it, my kids were like so. Haha I will get the last laugh when they get hooked on it.
To his nephew(Johnathan), I'm glad the comments have helped you through the loss of this great man. He touched many of us with his portrayal of Barnabas. To me it was a ground breaking series for the young tv industry.
I grew up in Hamilton, Ontario, Frid's hometown, in the 1960s. My 16 magazines had articles raving about Frid. But in Hamilton, you couldn't see "Dark Shadows." After one airing in Buffalo, there were so many protests about the show that it went off the air.
Nevertheless, on my first trip to New York City in 1969 with my mother and a friend, my mother ( who knew Frid) called him up. He arranged to meet us at the Russian Tea Room. He was at the height of his fame but couldn't have been more gracious to my mom and two giggling 14 year old girls. I remember a reporter for 16 magazine picked him up at the Tea Room after our meeting. It was fun to get a tiny glimpse of his fame.
I'm so glad that Netflix made available many of the old episodes of Dark Shadows. When I discovered them and was able to watch them, it was like I was recapturing a part of my youth, making me think that maybe my childhood wasn't so bad after all. Definately provided an escape to my daily grind. And Jonathan? He was Dark Shadows; the heart and the soul. Thank you for your wonderful gift. R.I.P. dear man.
I loved Barnabas.I watched every one of the Dark Shadow's series.I felt so sorry for him.RIP Jonathan you will be missed by everyone.
I too watched Dark Shadows when I got home from school. I loved it. Barnabas and Angelique were my favorite characters. Jonathan Frid was very very good in that role. I never thought he was conventionally handsome, yet the girls and women loved him and thought he was sexy. I guess he was then. It's a shame he did not live long enough to see the new Dark Shadows movie.
The year the original Dark Shadows aired was the year I was born. Years ahead, I kinda remember watching the last few espisodes. Then seen reruns on the sci-fi channel, the cable company I subscribe to. My sister really liked Dark Shadows then I got got hooked watching the reruns. Nothing like watching reruns of old shows. I would've enjoyed going to the DS Festivals but never gotten to go. I ended up buying the DVD set of DS a few yrs ago but some of the DVDs aren't that great the epidoes some wouldn't run right but glad I bought the DVD set. Got 6 boxes and each box has 40 DVDs in them plus I also have a picture hanging on my wall with Jonathan and a few of other characters…House of Dark Shadows.Never be another Barnabus like Jonathan Frid. Johnny Depp is good I know seen him in a lot of movies. Hope the cameo that Jonathan Frid and David Selby make a good impression. I will be watching the movie and know from the previews it's going to be definitely different. Jonathan Frid aka Barnabus Collins….to me A Legend, thank you
We love you Jonathan. You made us love Dark Shadows. You will be missed. Thank you and thank you again .Loyal Dark Shadows fans from Atlanta; Jaeson, Mignon, Connie, David, Dixon,etal…
I am one of the fans who had to see it every day it was on. Read all the books n his cookbook. Still got the VHS tapes of the movies. Loved that man from day 1. Will miss him. And sorry for the family for their lost n ours.
and I also ran home to watch Dark Shadows – and I was honored to see Jonathan Frid at Mercer County College in New Jersey with a friend of mine Darla when he recited poetry – enchanting!
I'm sure seeing the film on May 11th will be even more emotional knowing that it is Jonathan's final on-screen appearance. We will miss you Jonathan.
He started something quite special.
To me Barnabas Collins was a strong presence, quite, and scarey when he had to be. He had that dark quality about him and as a child, made an impression on me that will last a lifetime. May you rest in piece.
My heart aches that Jonathan has pass.When I heard of his death, felt like part of me died too.I was 14 when he came on to the show in 67.It seems like yesterday.But it was many years ago.He will always be Barnabas to me.No one can ever take his place.I will miss him greatly !
When I was a kid, my Mom and I would watch Dark Shadows together. The show came on just about 5 minutes after I got off the school bus. She would have a snack fixed for us, I would run in the door just as the creepy theme song started! We loved it! We went to the movies to see the movie, too. Some of my coolest memories as a kid. A cousin of mine even gave me the soundtrack album for Christmas one year! I still have it!
i too ran home from school just to watch dark shadows loved barnabas ty for the info on his death my heart throb in the day
Thank you Johnny Depp for comment on Jonathan Frid. I surely did love him for great man. I sure did watch him on 'Dark Shadow'. Believe it or not, I named my dog, Angelique from Dark Shadow as I loved that name, not because of witch. Smile. Everyone asked me where I got that name so I tell the story about Dark Shadow. It brought me the memory of Frid and his friends.
I too have fond memories of watching Dark Shadows after school each day. Barnabas would scare the Hell out of me ! I would watch thru a crack between my fingers covering my face. Dark Shadows is one of my few favorite shows of all time. RIP Jonathan Frid and thanks for the great memories !
A hidden Canadian actor, the kind who won't be hidden no more.
I have a special son who has Downs S and he has a buddy who is as well, and they are true, true fans of Jonathan Frid. I have explanned to them Jonathan will live forever in their hearts via their DVD's.My son had the priviledge of meeting him in Ca. 2010 at the reunion.
I have a "special" son who has Down's S and he and his buddy are true true fans of Jonathan Frid. They took his passing quite hard. I've told them his memory will live forever via their dvd's.My son had the priviledge of meeting him in CA. at the reunion 2010
I have a "special son" who has Down's S and he and his buddy are true, true fans of Jonathan Frid. They are taking his passing quite hard.I've told them his memory will live forever in their hearts via their dvd's.My son had the priviledge of meeting him at the 2010 reunion in Ca.
Barnabus till we meet again! Glad I met you in the flesh at the Dark Shadows Renunions, you were my favorite vampire of all times! RIP Jonathan Frid!
My first vampire crush, too, and the beginning of a lifelong love affair with them. But I also have concerns about the movie. I was ecstatic to hear about the remake, but the trailers do seem to portray Barnabas as less than the dignified character we loved…
Yes, I also was one of those that ran home once I got off the bus to watch Dark Shadows. I cried when I found out they had cancelled the show. Now I watch it on DVD. I was so sad to learn of Jonathan Frid's passing. I only wish I could have met him at one of the DS Festivals. RIP Jonathan. You'll always be remembered.
I have a "special son" who has Downs S and he and his buddy are true, true fans of DS. They are grieving his passing very much.I've told them his memory will live on in their hearts via their dvd's. My son had the priviledge of meeting Jonathan at the 2010 convention in CA.
Loved Dark Shadows, couldn't wait to get home from school to watch this great program every afternoon.
Jonathan Frid was the most elegant vampire and a wonderful actor.
Rochelle
Meeting you for the first time, some years ago, was a very special moment for me… As a child, you were my hero… in many ways… to this day.. you will always remain that way… someone most respected and loved… A true Renaissance man… You will be missed greatly, but your memory will live on forever in the SHADOWS of our hearts, dear friend… always.. Eternally bonded… never apart… xo
I LOVED BARNABAS COLLINS.
Like everyone else, I watched faithfully even buying a portable tv so I could watch on vacation! Jonathan and Davey Jones were my first crushes, and because of his wonderful Barnabas, I became a fan of E. Poe and the like! I have all the Dark Shadows on dvd and my kids and grandson have watched him also. I will be forever grateful for Mr. Frid for all the wonderful childhood memories! I will always have him and Barnabas in my heart! God bless you Jonathan, you were truly amazing!
will miss him. i've met him once and have an autographed photo of barnabus. can't wait to see the movie. i had hoped it would be a serious movie instead of comedy. we get to see jonathan one last time. R.I.P.
we couldn't wait to get to school (high) to gather together and talk about what happened on Dark Shadows the day before and what would happen next….Dark Shadows was a part of my youth growing up and johnathon Frid was the man!
I am deeply saddened to hear of Johnathan Frids death. I watched, (my family did too) all of the 4 years of Dark Shadows, and at first i thought it was (the house) was filmed in Los Angeles. I loved all the stars too! I was a young women of 24 then, and I watched reruns on the sy-fy channel in 1988.
May God Bless all of Mr Frid's family! Char Fresno Cal
I’m looking forward to the DS dramedy. I don’t think, Depp could have / should have, done a DS type pulled off the 60s/early 70s, show or the two movies. This new film is for camp and fun along with introducing a new century of others to the ‘fun’ of DS.
I’m looking forward to the movie, plus, I hope, others. Perhaps, moved forward to our time, but as we know, DS, can move through time.
Jonathan Frid, was admired so much by me. I remember, automobile advertisements in magazines, gum packages with the DS characters from different times in history, all with a cast of actors, I’ve never forgot. If cast members of the DS show, made their way into cameos of the upcoming DS movies, then, that’s good enough for me!
Looking forward to the release date and bowing my head to Mr. Frid!
My friends & I use to rush home from school to watch "Dark Shadows"…Saw Jonathan Frid at the old Midway in Philadelphia, I'll never forget it. Can't wait to see the new movie. I'm sure Johnny Depp had made Barnabas Collins his own way…funny & cute. God Bless Jonathan.
RIP Johnithan, I think you would have been proud to have someone as great as Johnney Depp your part in dark shadows I think Johnny Depp is wonderful and Im a Big Big fan of his .
in loving memory of dear Jonathan my sweet Barnabas i am one of the chosen lucky ones to have grown up a young teen hopelessly in love with the magnificent influence of my favorite Dark Shadows my favorite vampire prince until we meet sweet dreams in eternal bliss Josette
I could hear our dog howling when I got off the school bus and knew it was time for Dark Shadows…I would run all the way home so I would not miss a thing..
I'm so very sad to hear about Jonathan Frid's passing. I loved to watch him in Dark Shadows. I'm glad I got to see him last summer at the Dark Shadows Convention. He came into the room where we were all were and walked amongst us. He was a real nice man, so humble and so very talented. He had a magical aura about him that radiated dignity and grace. He will be in my heart forever. Rest in peace dear Jonathan.
Well…I admit I ran home after getting off the school bus to catch "Dark Shadows" too!
i rushed home ever day to watch Dark Shadows I LOVED THE SHOW and I always will RIP BARNABAS …MR FRID
Jonathan Fried was the only person I could ever choose to play Barnabus for the series. Talk about a classy actor. He will be greatly missed. May you finally rest in piece Barnabus – you will always be remembered.
I've been a huge fan of Jonathan's Frid's Barnabas since I was a child. I even wrote a song looking to capture the deep and complex character of Barnabas. Let me know what you think. You can hear that here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3jXQ652Q7LM
I was always your fan from the moment i saw you, you were different like me . When i watched you it was magical . Like the others i raced home every day to see you and the others on Dark Shadows my homework and chores had to wait. I bought every book or magazine as a child i could fine that had anything in it about you or Dark Shadows and kept them . I also had a ring i purchased at an antique store, i even carved a cane to look like your . My friends and i played Dark Shadows after each show and of course i was Barnabus Collins even though i was a girl. I now play in a haunted house as a character i wont say which one…….. ….. but it is the best one in the south AL. and i love it, im at home. Alot of it is because of the influence you had on me. Thank you MR. FRID , I will miss you but will not ever forget you.
I also RAN home to catch the show,I loved dark Shadows didnt even know it was a soap .I am dissapointed that the new show is a comedy. I wonder if it was'nt lazy, thinking that the same spooky
flavor could'nt be replicated.
I loved that show when I was a kid. I hate to hear he's dead.
I felt last summer that IF I wanted to meet Jonathan Frid, it should be NOW. I live in NYS, so I would be far to go to an LA Festival, but last summer, there was a magical moment when Jonathan Frid would be in Brooklyn. So, I went to see the older actor, and to catch the cast members who were much younger, too. Quentin had been one of my first loves (not David, although he's nice, too), but Quentin who was so romantic! And to discover that Angelique may have been vindictive and unkind, but Lara Parker is one of the nicest people around! Kathryn, well, I had written her before, and knew she was nice, too. And so many more. Festivals are fabulous, FYI, lol!!!
I never got to speak to Jonathan, but I was there to a packed house when he read with Quentin for the first time in 45 years! I know I will love to see him one more time in the Depp version. And I did stand less than a foot from him when he passed through the selling floor. Actually, I turned around and there he was!, but I didn't want to invade his walk through.
DS is a special time in my life. The war in Vietnam made escape to another time (early America/parallel time, the shadowy world that might be right next to us at all times) bittersweet, And when I watch those old black and white episodes, I see that Maggie and I wore the same clothes, were the same built, and almost the same age. Not a beauty like Kathryn in all her characters, but young, and beautiful for being young.
To John Frid. You had John Herbert for 87 years, not all that shabby a lifespan. Now Jonathan Frid goes beyond into legend. I'm sorry to read of your loss, OUR loss, too.
Jonathan Frid will ALWAYS and forever more be thee Greatest Vampire ever to roam the Earth… and NO one has nor ever will surpass 'Barnabas Collins'… I was greatly devastated when I heard of Mr. Frid's passing. He was an extremely gifted and talented man who brought us into a world we could never imagine.M I too was among the many followers who watched and loved Dark Shadows. My Daughter and I had the privilege of meeting Jonathan many years ago in Bethlehem PA when he did one of his readings. It was truly an honor to be in his presence and a night we will never forget. May you Jonathan be at rest in the arms of the Angels in Paradise… Peace & Love to His Family
Oh, how I loved the magical Barnabas Collins, the kindly gen
gentleman that only Jonathan Frid could portray.
I look forward to seeing the remake and to see
Mr. Frid in his cameo.
Rest in peace, Jonathan.
I rarely got to see the show as a kid (my brother got to watch the one TV we had for Sesame Street) but when I did, I loved it! Now to Netflix to get the series. I had a wicked crush on Barnabas! RIP Jonathan Frid – you were a class act!!!
I thought he was sexy even when I was just 13. I am so saddened that he didn't get to see the finished movie before he died. But to go out on Friday the 13th was just like him!!
Yep I also am one of the fans who had to see it every day, what a treat to get home from school and see all the Collins play one scheme after another on each other. Barnabas was wonderful in his role, he was a great vampire, how he carried himself and his mystique. Loved those days and would love to see it again.
I too remember the original Dark Shadows and was excited when I heard a while back that Johnny Depp would be playing Barnabus. But, to be honest I was stunned when i saw the previews and saw that it would be a comedy. I was disappointed inside. But, i will see it with an open mind and give it a chance. I know Johhny Depp is a gifted actor and I love Tim Burton so let's see…
Sorry to hear of the passing of Jonathan Frid, I loved the show Dark Shadows I still watch it on dvd. I'm,disappointed they have made this movie you can't remake a classic. There can be only one Barnabas Collins and that was Jonathan Frid he will be deeply missed.
I too,ran home everyday to watch Dark Shadows. Little did I know years later I would meet him at a small theatre in central Pa.. After his show, I got to meet him outside, his comment to me was thank you my dear, and he kissed my hand, after commenting what a great fan I was and how much I enjoyed his readibg. He was elegant, handsome, and I was infatuated all over again. Rest in peace, Jonathan. I hope you truly realize how loved you were by so many adoring fans
I was also a fan of Dark Shadows and ran home everyday to watch. Years later, I met Jonathan Frid at a reading of his @ a local theatre. After the show he came outside and spoke with some of us. After I commented on how much I enjoyed his reading, he replied "Thank you, my dear." and kissed my hand. He was handsome elegant and cordial. I was infatuated w/ him all over again.
Rest in peace, Jonathan andI hope you realized all the people you touched as the character, Barnabas Collins.
“Cousin Barnabas, will you one morning come with me to the rooftop to see the sunrise? . . . David Collins/1967
The night time belonged to Barnabas but the daytime belonged to Jonathan as he shinned on Dark Shadows. All who walk in his shadow are mere mortals to his immortal Barnabas.
Angelice’s cruse haunts you no more. Free to be with your beloved Josette forever more. God Rest Your Soul. Uncle Barnabas! Thank You!
Great memories from my childhood. I can still even remember some of the background music for the different characters. Angelique, Barnabus, Quentin were some of my favorite characters. Does anyone else remember how Constance Bennett had trouble remembering her lines? Many memories of being glued to the t.v. everyday at 4:00 to watch this magical show.
I was born in Italy and my parents came to this great country August, 1966 I was eight years old.
I too, would rush home from school so my aunt and I would watch DS. My aunt could barely speak English I learned to speak English fairly quickly, but it did not stop my aunt from watching and I would translate. Dark Shadows was a soap opera of it's time. We have never seen a soap opera like DS since. Along with my family members, loved Jonathan Frid, he was such a professional an graceful actor. The rest of the cast was also great. I will cherish memories for the rest of my life.
God Bless you Fred may you rest in peace. My symphathies for the family.
I too "ran home from school" every day to be there in time to watch dark shadows. I still remember one episode where the kids trapped in the "castle" were given the clue, 1-2 away they flew, 3-4, by the door, 5-6 count the bricks, 7-8 the clue is grate….or something to that effect, some memories are vague now, Oh how i loved this show and my first vampire crush was also Barnabas Collins. So many memories of this show, wish I could find it in a DVD set or a TV station in my area running it, and for Jonathan Frid to have passed on when he did seems so fitting, for the charactor he played so well, though I am sure his family misses him terribly. He is only sleeping! THANK YOU for the show that spawned many fantasies and lasting memories. My condolences to Jonathan Frid's Family
It was truly a magical show. The way they went back and forth to those timelines, and it seemed natural and made sense. The movie they made in 1970 was actually more "horror-like" than the show was, but the show could make the hair on the back of your neck stand up at times too! For the low budget, live filming, and limited special effects abilities, this show was amazing. I watched it in reruns a few years ago when it was still on SciFi and it stands up today as a superb drama w/excellent actors, I got sucked right in all over again! I can't wait to see the movie. They couldn't have picked a better actor to play Barnabas.
got to meet him several years ago at The Dark Shadows Convention in Burbank. Jonathan Frid was a true gentlemen, frail beyond his years….and the true "tortured vampire"…I really hope this movie doesn't mock the legend….that would be cruel……..
i miss the show i wish it was back on the tv
My downstairs neighbor (grew up in garden apartment in Queens) was the camera man for Dark Shadows..I loved that show as a kid..would run home from school to watch it everyday at 4:00pm..I also had the whole cast's autograph, thanks for my neighbor Charlie…
Had no idea that Jonathan Frid passed away. RIP, Barnabas. You are, & will be the ONLY one who can be Barnabas. I watched everyday after school like loads of other kids. It was a daytime soap opera tht was ahead of its time.
The first episode I watched of Dark Shadows terrified me! David's mother was trying to entice him into the flames, and it scared me so badly, I didn't want to watch again. But my friends loved the show so much, that I had to give it another try. So one afternoon I tuned in to watch and was capitvated by Barnabas Collins. I seldom missed an episode after that. By the end of the series, in the area where I live, the show was being aired at 11:30 p.m. on either Friday or Saturday night and they would show the entire week's episodes, one right after the other. I remember crying at the end of the final show. Since that time I have watched the entire series on Netflix and videotaped it on the Sci-Fi Channel when it aired sometime ago. I am thrilled about the new movie and can't wait to see it. Johnny Depp is a gifted actor and I think he will do the character justice. It will be bittersweet to see Jonathan Frid (and other cast members) in their cameo appearances. I was so saddened to hear of Jonathan's death. My deepest sympathy to his family, friends and fans who will miss him so much.
Depp is a one dimensional actor who just ruined a classic. Completely disrespected Frid.
"Dark Shadows" was so important to me as a pre-teen / teen, but in later years, when I saw it in reruns, I saw the hilarity of it all. Frid was a genius as Barnabus! Johnny Depp isn't crapping all over the original, he is opening the door to the younger generation to rent the originals and see what passed as great TV when we were growing up. I remember, we used to sit on the floor in front of the television set and try to see the "goofs" behind the cardboard set. Now THAT was a show!!! Can't wait to see the movie!
I loved Dark Shadows as a tweenager. As an adult, I still watched the show in reruns, though it seemed a bit silly then. But I still couldn't help but love it, especially the episodes I missed as a girl. I know Johnny Depp and Michelle Pfeifer were among my crowd and can't imagine any other actors playing these roles. I think that the humor that Johnny portrays as Barnabus will only endear me more to the original series. Much to some here, I think there was alot of humor in the original that most of us missed until we were older people watching the show. It was really a soap opera! My first! All my children and general hospital would never catch me the way Barnabus, Angelique, Maggie, and David ever would. But they sure tried.
Let's enjoy this movie for what it is and not compare it to the series. That is like comparing apples to oranges and I think everyone on the new movie has respected the original. See it first, know it is a new movie, and get on with life. I mean they re-made dirty dancing and footloose. They were not as good as the originals, but they have their own merit and style as will this film. RIP, Jonathan Frid, you will always be my first vampire love, though David as Quentin surely stole my heart. And I always thought you should really be with Angelique!! Seriously, though, I believe we have lost a very fine actor in Jonathan Frid. I doubt very much that Dark Shadows was the pinnacle in his career though it may have brought his name out. I believe that before and after this series this man had and continued to be one of the finest actors of his time. He made Barnabus human to many of us, but I am sure that was only a small part of his repertoire. I believe Jonathan was a truly fine actor and I believe this of Johnny Depp as well. Neither man can be accused of taking a part for money only. Both really were and are men of their craft. RIP, Jonathan and best to you, Johnny.
Saw the movie 5/11/2012
I wasn't disappointed at all.
As an original fan of the Dark Shadows tv show, I have to say that the problem with low box office numbers for the 2012 movie was the movie itself. It strayed too far away from the drama and mystique of the original show. Dark Shadows as a campy comedy just didn't cut it! Johnny Depp and the rest of the actors did a great job, but they didn't have much to work with. The characters didn't have enough substance. The highlight of the movie was seeing Jonathan Frid and other original cast members walk into the party scene at Collinwood.
Ditta – ran home from school just to watch Dark Shadows! There were so many of us….
Anyway, I just saw Dark Shadows this evening. I laughed, cried, and remembered. It was a nice walk down memory lane, with just enough of a Depp Twist of humor and fun to make it awesome.
RIP my favorite vampire. Still my favorite even after Depp
My condolence's to a suburb human being . And Dingnified Actor ..And too all us his loyal fan's from Stratford Theater ..to the small screen to the big ..Ty Jonathan for making your life memerabal to all of us whom life's you've touched . Good to see the torch passed of Barabus Collins from one generation to the next with dignity and grace ,,How fitting the roll of Barabus shall live on ..in all our heart's . Rest in peace Jonathan ..Respectfuly Scott Johnson Windsor Ontario Canada..
Jonathan Frid ( Barnabas) you will be forever missed, but forever in live on in our hearts , thank you for sharing your life with sooo many You have touched my life as well as many others..thank you , thank you , thank you. you will never be forgotten <3
Everyone here remembers Mr Frid as Barnabas Collins but I wonder how many people realise it was his classical/Shakespeare theatre training and experience which laid the groundwork for his talent to flourish in DS?
Of all the remakes, only the original series still sends chills through me as creepy as I remember them as a child in the early 60's….it was JF's portrayal of BC which made the series so successful, allowing other young actors their start up the professional ladder, like the Willy Loman actor who landed up as Cagney's husband in Cagney and Lacy.
There is no substitute for treading the boards of trad theatre as the foundation for a successful acting career and Mr Frid more than paid his dues in this regard – an aspect of his career which is seldom mentioned.
Jonathan Frid is the one and only Barnabas Collins!!!!! I like Jonny Depp, But his movie was a total failure in my opinion. He can never fill Mr. Frid's shoes. It was a campy movie. I really thought the new movie was going to be great but sometimes you just can't improve on an Original Classic