Stephen Stucker was a remarkably eccentric and dynamic free-spirited actor who excelled in delivering outrageously over-the-top portrayals of memorably flamboyant characters in a select few comedies produced during the 1970s and 1980s.
Born on July 2, 1947, in Des Moines, Iowa, Stucker attended Lincoln School in Alameda, California, where he was recognized for his remarkable pianistic abilities and his reputation as a class clown with a quick wit.
Stucker made his film debut with a hilarious performance as a mentally unstable asylum escapee, Bruce Wilson, in the lowbrow comedy "Carnal Madness." He also starred as a cross-dressing court stenographer in "The Kentucky Fried Movie," showcasing his impressive comedic range.
Stucker's most iconic role, however, was that of loopy airport control room worker Johnny in the side-splitting disaster picture parody "Airplane!." He reprised this role in "Airplane II: The Sequel" and had a memorable appearance as a train stationmaster in "Trading Places."
Additionally, Stucker appeared in three episodes of the popular TV series "Mork & Mindy." His work with the comedy trio Jim Abrahams, David Zucker, and Jerry Zucker as a member of the theatrical group the Kentucky Fried Theater, which produced "The Kentucky Fried Movie" and "Airplane!," showcased his versatility as a comedic actor.
Tragically, Stephen Stucker's life was cut short when he passed away at the age of 38 on April 13, 1986, due to complications from AIDS.
