Mel Ferrer (August 25, 1917 - June 2, 2008)

Mel Ferrer, first husband to screen icon Audrey Hepburn. This suave star appeared in several films during his lengthy career but it was his performance in 1953's Lili opposite Leslie Caron that everyone remembers. On television he guest starred on such shows as "Police Story", "Baretta", "Ellery Queen", "Hawaii Five-O", "Dallas", "Fantasy Island", "Hotel", "Murder, She Wrote", and "Christine Cromwell." For me he will ALWAYS be Phillip Erikson from the 1980's prime time hit "Falcon Crest." He was on for only three seasons but he definitely made a mark. Erikson was the crooked but well mannered lawyer to ruthless matriach Angela Channing (Jane Wyman). You never knew where he stood...one minute he was in love with her the next he was plotting with her worst enemy Richard Channing (David Selby) to bring her down. It was shocking for me when Angela accepted his marriage proposal especially since about four episode previous he was trying to run her out of town. Their wedding took place but sadly Phillip died in a plane crash soon after. I would say that Phillip was the perfect "arm charm" for Angela Channing. She was certainly a tough broad and she didn't need to depend upon a man for anything. I do believe that Phillip Erikson left "Falcon Crest" too soon but that's show business I guess. Anyway, he was a wonderful character brought to life by a wonderful actor and his work will never be forgotten, not as long as I'm around.

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