Robert Culp

'Greatest American Hero' Star William Katt Remembers Robert Culp: 'A Tough Guy With A Heart Of Gold'

Posted 3/24/10 10:15 pm EST by Brian Jacks in News

Robert Culp, William Katt and Connie Sellecca -- Courtesy William Katt When I heard about the sad passing of Robert Culp earlier this evening, I immediately thought of his friend William Katt, who of course co-starred with the acting legend on the 1980s action show "Greatest American Hero." I happen to have email corresponded with William on occasion, so I asked for his reaction to the news and he very graciously sent me the following statement, along with the last photo he took with Robert (with Connie Sellecca at the 2008 San Diego Comic-Con).

"Robert Culp was the grit and the gravity that kept 'The Greatest American Hero' honest. He was the reason the show worked! A tough guy with a heart of gold and a line delivery like no other. He was a teacher, a mentor and a good friend and I'll miss him. Wm katt"

Stay tuned to the MTV Movies Blog for more on the passing of Robert Culp.

Tags greatest american hero, robert culp, William Katt

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Getting Schooled By Robert Culp Was An Amazing Experience: One MTV Staffer's Personal Memory

Posted 3/24/10 6:22 pm EST by Brian Jacks in News, Video

Like many children of the 80s, I first encountered Robert Culp as the surly FBI handler in "Greatest American Hero." But in the years since then, I experienced more of the actor's wide body of work and he quickly became one of my favorite actors. I watched him in shows like "I Spy" and in films like "P.T. 109," and it was wildly entertaining to see him dish out his trademark barbs.

So it was with great enthusiasm that I booked an interview with the legend at the San Diego Comic-Con in 2008. I've dealt with the biggest stars around, from Anthony Hopkins to Leonardo DiCaprio, so I'm over the whole nervousness thing, but I'll admit I was scared s--tless going into my interview with Robert. Even in his late-70s, he was as snarky as ever and I didn't know what to expect. Thankfully he was very nice, but boy, was he able to throw out sarcasm like a master. I found that out firsthand when I called "Greatest American Hero" a superhero show, and he was lighting quick to jump on me for that.

Being a longtime fan, I loved being on the personal end of a Culp stinger and it was easily one of the highlights of my career. You can watch that moment in the video below, and be sure to stay tuned to the MTV Movies Blog for more on the passing of Robert Culp. He was an amazing figure and I'm very, very sorry to see him go.

Tags greatest american hero, robert culp, Video

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Robert Culp Schools Us On Calling The 'Greatest American Hero' A Superhero; Plus Cameo Talk

Posted 8/18/08 3:01 pm EST by Brian Jacks in News, Video

I've lived through deadly earthquakes, armed robberies, South American protest rallies and the time my kitchen caught fire, and none of those compare to being on the receiving end of Robert Culp. The 78-year-old actor is legendary for his sardonic barbs and observations, so -- as a huge fan -- I count myself lucky to have triggered his half-joking ire during an interview to discuss the upcoming "Greatest American Hero" comic book and animated webisodes.

So what lead to my skewering? Well, I referred to "GAH" as a superhero franchise...something that Mr. Culp takes exception to. Find out why in the video below and then tell us if you agree. And here's a related exclusive tid-bit...according to co-star Connie Sellecca, the trio (including of course star William Katt), have been offered cameos in the "GAH" feature film that showrunner Stephen J. Cannell is developing.

BUT WAIT, THERE'S MORE: Click here to read about the "Greatest American Hero" comic and animated series.

Tags greatest american hero, robert culp