I returned from visiting two Twin Peaks film locations during my first day in Seattle when I heard the news – Robert Forster passed at the age of 78. I grew up with Robert Forster, who stared in numerous films and, more recently, played Sheriff Frank Truman (Harry Truman’s older brother) in Season 3 on Showtime. I was moved by this news to write this love letter to Frank Truman.
The first report I read, courtesy of Twitter, was published by the Hollywood Reporter.
Robert Forster, the stalwart leading man whose Oscar-nominated performance as a nefarious bail bondsman in Quentin Tarantino’s Jackie Brown made for one of Hollywood’s most heartwarming comeback stories, has died. He was 78. Forster died on Friday at his Los Angeles home from brain cancer, his publicist told The Hollywood Reporter.
I first saw Robert as Captain Dan Holland in Disney’s “The Black Hole,” a 1979 sci-fi, cult classic. It is one of my two favorite Disney live-action films, which I saw again on on the big screen in March 2018 (see this love-filled Twitter thread about this film).
While listening to #TheBlackHole on vinyl, I would play with my action figures including Dan Holland, V.I.N.CENT and Maximillian (which is buried in a box somewhere at my place). 5/10 pic.twitter.com/KJS6bwpr31
— Steven Miller (@samhowzit) March 27, 2018
As a child, I used to listen to the 33 1/2 LP featuring the story and music from the film. I also still have a Dan Holland action figure I had as a child.
The first David Lynch film I saw Robert in was the impressive Mulholland Drive. He’s in a brief scene with the late Brent Briscoe, who died on October 18, 2017 following a fall that resulted in complications. I can’t tell you the number of times I’ve quoted Robert from this film – “That’s what I’m thinking.” No one knows what it’s from but his performance was clearly memorable for me.
This brings me to Twin Peaks Season 3. Like many, I was bummed to hear that Michael Ontkean wouldn’t be in the newest season on Showtime. Yet, what we were given from Robert Forster as Sheriff Frank Truman was such a blessing.
Here is a brief look at some of my favorite moments from Robert’s performance. One thing that stands out to me – the true emotion expressed by a master of his craft.
PART 4
Sheriff Frank Truman is introduced in Part 4 as he arrives in the Twin Peaks Sheriff’s Station speaking with Lucy Brennan on his iPhone. The calm, cool and collected Sheriff responds perfectly to Lucy’s over-the-top antics.
I honestly don’t know how Robert kept a straight face when his Wally Brennan stopped by the Sheriff’s Department to pay his respects to his godfather. “May the road rise up to meet your wheels.” Priceless.
Compassion and caring defined Frank Truman, especially hearing about the death of another citizen in his town.
PART 5
Frank’s expression to his wife Doris’ rant in Twin Peaks – Part 5 is perfect. I loved it so much that I printed it out and hung this image on my computer screen to constantly remind me to weather the storm.
PART 7
Frank Truman discussing the missing pages with his number one trusted Deputy Hawk.
We know that Michael Ontkean (Sheriff Harry Truman) is not on the phone, yet Robert’s performance sold me.
No greater joy than watching Robert peck at the keyboard of his fancy desk computer. His exchange with the late Warren Frost was yet another example of incredible acting.
PART 9
NO LUNCH IN THE CONFERENCE ROOM, CHAD.
PART 11
Frank: “What is this?” [points to map]
Hawk: “Frank, you don’t ever want to know about that.”
But you know by his expression that he totally does.
PART 12
That stoic expression when he visits Ben Horne at the Great Northern Hotel!
PART 14
You have to love someone who enjoys a roast beef and cheese sandwich.
“It’s 2:53 fellas,” Frank exclaims when his team is at the spot 253-yards east from Jack Rabbit’s Palace. It’s the “fellas” that gets me. He’s one of them. Folksy and relatable.
PART 17
Just look at that stare down of Mr. C in Part 17. He knows something isn’t right.
In fact, he doesn’t budge. Only his hat will move.
These are just a few examples that i loved by Robert Forster. The world lost a truly talented individual. From all reports, he was a gentleman and a warm, giving individual who genuinely cared about others. A true man. Something I can only hope to emulate as we move forward with his memory.
I extend my condolences to his family and friends for their loss.
Thank you Robert Forster for gracing us with your talent.
