James Farentino of 'ER' and 'Dynasty' dies at 73 from heart failure
James Farentino, an actor who has had roles on "Dynasty," "Melrose Place" and in dozens of movies and shows, died on January 24 in a Los Angeles hospital at the age of 73, according to the Associated Press.
The actor died of heart failure at Cedars-Sinai Hospital, his spokesman, Bob Palmer, told the wire service. Born in Brooklyn, N.Y., the actor is survived by two sons, David and Saverio.
In 1967, Farentino won a "Most Promising Newcomer" Golden Globe for his performance in the comedy "The Pad and How to Use It." He went on to star alongside Kirk Douglas in the 1980 sci-fi film "The Final Countdown."
Farentino also had recurring roles on "Dynasty," "Melrose Place," "The Bold Ones: The Lawyers" and "ER," where he played the estranged father to George Clooney's character Dr. Doug Ross.
He earned an Emmy nomination in 1978 for his portrayal of Saint Peter in the television mini-series "Jesus of Nazareth."
The actor had a troubled personal life and was a a four-time divorcee. In March 1994, he pleaded no contest to stalking his ex-girlfriend Tina Sinatra, daughter of Frank Sinatra. The couple had been previously dating for five years.
Farentino was later sentenced to 36 months probation, according to the Los Angeles Times. He told the newspaper in a 2003 interview "My behavior was appalling -- feeling so hurt and rejected that I was the victim when I really wasn't."
His last appearance was in a television movie called "Drive/II" in 2006.
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