All 14 ‘Jurassic’ Franchise Actors That Have Sadly Passed Away

The Jurassic Park franchise has thrilled audiences for decades with its jaw-dropping dinosaurs and gripping stories. From the 1993 original to the Jurassic World sequels, the films have introduced unforgettable characters brought to life by talented actors. Sadly, some of these performers are no longer with us, leaving behind legacies that continue to resonate with fans.

This article honors those actors from the Jurassic Park series who have passed away. Each brought something special to the franchise, whether through a leading role or a brief but memorable appearance. Below, I dive into their contributions, their roles in the films, and a bit about their lives and careers.

1. Richard Kiley

Richard Kiley lent his rich, commanding voice to the automated tour narration in Jurassic Park (1993), setting the tone for the park’s grandeur. His distinctive baritone made the science behind the dinosaurs feel both exciting and believable.

Kiley, a celebrated stage and screen actor, won two Tony Awards for his Broadway work, including Man of La Mancha (1965-1971). He passed away on March 5, 1999, from myelodysplasia at age 76. His voice remains a nostalgic part of the Jurassic Park experience, echoing through the franchise’s legacy.

2. Bob Peck

Bob Peck played Robert Muldoon, the sharp-eyed game warden in Jurassic Park (1993), whose ‘Clever girl’ line became iconic. His intense performance added grit to the film’s early chaos.

A respected British actor, Peck starred in films like Edge of Darkness (1985) and stage productions with the Royal Shakespeare Company. He died of cancer on April 4, 1999, at 53. His portrayal of Muldoon remains a fan favorite, embodying quiet strength and survival instinct.

3. Michael Jeter

Michael Jeter brought nervous energy to Udesky, the mercenary in Jurassic Park III (2001), whose brief role added tension to the dinosaur-filled adventure. His expressive acting stood out, even in a smaller part.

Known for roles in The Green Mile (1999) and Evening Shade (1990-1994), Jeter was a versatile performer with a knack for quirky characters. He passed away on March 30, 2003, at 50 from an epileptic seizure. His work in the franchise added depth to its action-packed story.

4. Greg Burson

Greg Burson voiced Mr. DNA in Jurassic Park (1993), the animated character explaining the park’s genetic engineering in a fun, accessible way. His lively delivery made complex science engaging for audiences.

A skilled voice actor, Burson also worked on Looney Tunes projects, voicing characters like Bugs Bunny. He died on July 22, 2008, at 59 from complications of diabetes and arteriosclerosis. His contribution to Jurassic Park remains a charming highlight of the film.

5. Pete Postlethwaite

Pete Postlethwaite played Roland Tembo, the rugged hunter leading the expedition in The Lost World: Jurassic Park (1997). His commanding presence and moral complexity made Tembo a standout.

An acclaimed actor with roles in In the Name of the Father (1993) and The Usual Suspects (1995), Postlethwaite was nominated for an Oscar. He passed away on January 2, 2011, at 64 from pancreatic cancer. His performance added depth to the franchise’s second chapter.

6. Ian Abercrombie

Ian Abercrombie had a small but memorable role as John Hammond’s butler in The Lost World: Jurassic Park (1997). His brief appearance brought a touch of class to the film’s tense narrative.

Best known as Alfred Pennyworth in Birds of Prey (2002-2003), Abercrombie also appeared in Seinfeld (1994-1998). He died on January 26, 2012, at 77 from kidney failure. His subtle role in the franchise fit his knack for refined characters.

7. Robin Sachs

Robin Sachs played Mr. Bowman, a minor character in The Lost World: Jurassic Park (1997), adding to the film’s ensemble of explorers. His brief role contributed to the sequel’s adventurous tone.

A familiar face in sci-fi, Sachs appeared in Buffy the Vampire Slayer (1997-2003) and Galaxy Quest (1999). He passed away on February 1, 2013, at 61 from a heart attack. His work in the franchise, though small, was part of his diverse career.

8. Jophery C. Brown

Jophery C. Brown appeared as the worker killed by a velociraptor in the opening scene of Jurassic Park (1993). His brief but chilling role set the stage for the film’s danger.

A former baseball player turned stuntman, Brown also worked on films like Die Hard (1988). He died on January 11, 2014, at 72, with the cause undisclosed. His early scene in Jurassic Park remains a gripping introduction to the franchise.

9. Richard Attenborough

Richard Attenborough portrayed John Hammond, the visionary founder of Jurassic Park (1993) and The Lost World: Jurassic Park (1997). His warm yet ambitious performance anchored the original film.

An Oscar-winning director for Gandhi (1982) and acclaimed actor in Brighton Rock (1948), Attenborough was a cinematic legend. He passed away on August 24, 2014, at 90, in frail health after a fall. His role as Hammond remains a cornerstone of the series.

10. Sarah Danielle Madison

Sarah Danielle Madison played Cheryl, a minor character in Jurassic Park III (2001), adding to the film’s ensemble during its rescue mission plot. Her brief role fit the movie’s fast-paced action.

On September 27, 2014, Sarah died in her sleep during a trip to her family’s cabin in southeast Wisconsin

11. Julio Oscar Mechoso

Julio Oscar Mechoso played Enrique Cardoso, a boat crew member in Jurassic Park III (2001). His short role added tension to the film’s early scenes.

Known for roles in Little Miss Sunshine (2006) and Miami Vice (1984-1990), Mechoso was a versatile character actor. He passed away on November 25, 2017, at 62 from a heart attack. His contribution helped ground the third film’s adventure.

12. Irrfan Khan

Irrfan Khan played Simon Masrani, the charismatic CEO in Jurassic World (2015). His lively performance brought charm and ambition to the rebooted franchise.

A Bollywood icon with Hollywood roles in Slumdog Millionaire (2008) and Life of Pi (2012), Khan was widely admired. He died on April 29, 2020, at 53 from a colon infection after battling a neuroendocrine tumor. His role in Jurassic World remains a fan favorite.

13. James Earl Jones

James Earl Jones hosted and voiced The Making of Jurassic Park (1993), a documentary tied to the original film. His iconic voice added gravitas to the behind-the-scenes look.

Best known for voicing Darth Vader in Star Wars (1977-2016) and roles in Field of Dreams (1989), Jones was a legend. He died on September 9, 2024, at 93, with no cause specified. His contribution enriched the franchise’s legacy.

14. Tony McFarr

Tony McFarr was Chris Pratt’s stunt double in Jurassic World (2015) and Jurassic World: Fallen Kingdom (2018), performing daring scenes as Owen Grady. His work brought the action to life.

A skilled stuntman, McFarr also worked on Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2 (2017). He passed away on May 13, 2024, at 47, with the cause undisclosed. His stunts were vital to the franchise’s thrilling sequences.

Which Jurassic Park actor’s performance left the biggest mark on you? Share your thoughts in the comments!