Introduction
Stephen Furst was an accomplished actor, director, and producer who was best known for his roles in Animal House and Babylon 5. He passed away in 2017 at the age of 63, leaving behind a legacy that touched the hearts of many. In this blog post, we will take a closer look at Stephen Furst’s life, career, and the cause of his untimely death.
Early Life and Career
Personal Life
Stephen Furst was born on May 8, 1955, in Norfolk, Virginia. He grew up in a Jewish family and had a passion for acting from a young age. In 1972, he graduated from Virginia Commonwealth University with a degree in theater arts. He later moved to New York City to pursue his acting career.
Animal House
Stephen Furst’s breakout role came in 1978 when he was cast as Kent Dorfman, also known as “Flounder,” in the comedy classic Animal House. The film was a massive success and launched Furst’s career in Hollywood. He went on to star in several other films, including The Dream Team and The Little Mermaid II: Return to the Sea.
Babylon 5 and Later Career
Babylon 5
Stephen Furst’s most significant role came in 1993 when he was cast as Vir Cotto in the science fiction series Babylon 5. The show was a critical and commercial success, and Furst’s performance was widely praised. He appeared in all five seasons of the show and even directed several episodes.
Later Career
After Babylon 5 ended, Stephen Furst continued to work in the entertainment industry. He appeared in several TV shows, including Scrubs and St. Elsewhere. He also directed several TV movies and episodes of various shows.
Cause of Death
Diabetes
Stephen Furst had been battling with diabetes for several years before his death. He was diagnosed with type 2 diabetes in 1996 and had to undergo a kidney transplant in 2005. Unfortunately, his health continued to deteriorate, and he passed away on June 16, 2017, due to complications from diabetes.
Legacy
Stephen Furst’s legacy lives on through his work in the entertainment industry and his advocacy for diabetes awareness. He was an active member of the American Diabetes Association and worked tirelessly to raise awareness about the disease. He will be remembered as a talented actor, director, and producer who brought joy and laughter to millions of people around the world.
Conclusion
Stephen Furst was a beloved figure in the entertainment industry who left an indelible mark on the world. His performances in Animal House and Babylon 5 will be remembered for generations to come, and his advocacy for diabetes awareness will continue to save lives. He may be gone, but his legacy will live on forever.
