Blackpool-born Friday the 13th and Spider-Man actor dies

Veteran actor Chris Wiggins, who starred as resourceful occult expert Jack Marshak in the Friday the 13th TV series from 1987 to 1990, has died at the age of 86.
By The Newsroom
Published 1st Mar 2017, 06:00 BST
Updated 1st Mar 2017, 10:11 BST
Louise Robey and Chris Wiggins in Friday the 13th: The Series (1987) -- Picture: Paramount Home EntertainmentLouise Robey and Chris Wiggins in Friday the 13th: The Series (1987) -- Picture: Paramount Home Entertainment
Louise Robey and Chris Wiggins in Friday the 13th: The Series (1987) -- Picture: Paramount Home Entertainment

The Blackpool-born thespian, who trained as a banker before moving to Canada in 1952 to pursue a career in acting, was also well known for playing Johann, the father in the 1976 TV series Swiss Family Robinson.

He won Best Actor in the Canadian Film Awards in 1969 for his role in The Best Damn Fiddler from Calabogie to Kaladar, and also lent his voice to shows such as Barbar, Star Wars: Droids, Spider-Man, The Care Bears Family, and Tales from the Cryptkeeper.

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In addition to his TV and film work, Mr Wiggins made over 1,200 appearances in various radio series.

He died on Sunday, February 19, in Ontario, after a battle with Alzheimer’s Disease, it was reported by his family in the Toronto Star.

His wife Sandra Crysler-Wiggins died before him, but he was survived by two nephews and a niece.

A memorial service will be held in Ontario on Saturday, March 11, with Mr Wiggins’ family asking for donations to the Alzheimer Society in lieu of flowers.

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Related topics:BlackpoolCanada