Surviving Main Actors from 1979’s The Amityville Horror

Now considered one of the most compelling and atmospheric horror films of the 1970s, “The Amityville Horror” tells the allegedly true story of a family that moves into a house possessed by malevolent spirits. Despite mixed reviews from critics, the film was a major hit with audiences and became one of the highest-grossing horror films of its time.

Its popularity led to numerous sequels and remakes, making the story of the Amityville house a staple in pop culture. However, it’s been 45 years since the film premiered, and many of the original cast members have passed away. Among the primary cast, only James Brolin, Don Stroud, and Helen Shaver are still alive.

James Brolin, who portrays the family patriarch George, is a well-known figure in Hollywood. He began his acting career in the early 1960s, appearing in small television roles and uncredited film performances, but gained significant recognition in the late 1960s and 1970s. Brolin’s notable works include the 1973 film “Westworld,” “Capricorn One,” and of course, “The Amityville Horror.”

In recent years, Brolin has narrated the Netflix series “Sweet Tooth,” voiced Emperor Zurg in “Lightyear,” and appeared in “Catch Me If You Can.” He is also set to feature in the upcoming western “Ransom Canyon.” His personal life draws interest due to his marriage to Barbra Streisand and being the father of actor Josh Brolin.

Don Stroud, who plays Father Bolan, has had a versatile career in television and film. In “The Amityville Horror,” he supports Rod Steiger’s Father Delaney, who encounters supernatural forces upon entering the haunted house. Stroud started acting in the late 1960s and remained active through the 1970s and 1980s, featuring in shows like “Gunsmoke,” “Hawaii Five-O,” “Charlie’s Angels,” and “The Dukes of Hazzard.”

Stroud also appeared in notable films such as “The Buddy Holly Story,” “License to Kill,” and “Django Unchained.” His latest performance was in a 2023 episode of “Magnum P.I.,” where he played an elderly veteran.

Helen Shaver plays Carolyn, a psychic who quickly senses the malevolent energy in the Amityville house. Shaver’s acting career began in the 1970s and continued into the 2010s, with her last on-screen appearance in 2013’s “Down River.”

In the early 1990s, Shaver transitioned to directing, finding great success in television. She has directed episodes for popular series such as “The OC,” “Anne with an E,” “Orphan Black,” “Westworld,” “Vikings,” and the recent series “The New Look.” Her latest project is a drama film titled “Frankie’s Baby,” currently in pre-production.