Home / Arts and Entertainment / Evangelist Turned Actor Marjoe Gortner Dies at 82
Evangelist Turned Actor Marjoe Gortner Dies at 82
4 Oct
Summary
- Marjoe Gortner, subject of an Oscar-winning documentary, has died at 82.
- He began as a child evangelical preacher before becoming an actor.
- Gortner was known for his charity work, producing celebrity sports events.
Marjoe Gortner, a figure whose remarkable life journey from evangelical preacher to actor garnered widespread attention, passed away on Friday at the age of 82. His death followed years of battling congestive heart failure.
Gortner's early life was marked by his rise as a child evangelist, a period captured in the acclaimed 1971 documentary "Marjoe," which earned an Academy Award. Born in Long Beach, California, his unique name, a blend of 'Mary' and 'Joseph,' reflected his evangelical upbringing.
After becoming disillusioned with the religious movement in his twenties, Gortner transitioned to acting. He secured roles in B movies and television, often portraying complex characters. Beyond his screen career, Gortner was a dedicated philanthropist, producing celebrity sports events that successfully raised significant funds for numerous charities.
His fifth wife, Susan Magestro, survives him. Gortner's legacy is remembered for his dynamic spirit and his profound impact on both the entertainment and charitable worlds.
