Wings Hauser, Versatile Character Actor, Dies at 77
Wings Hauser, a dynamic character actor celebrated for his powerful performances in films such as Jo Jo Dancer, Your Life Is Calling, Vice Squad, and Tough Guys Don’t Dance, has passed away at the age of 77.
Cause of Death
Hauser died at his residence in Santa Monica on Saturday, following a prolonged struggle with COPD, as reported by his daughter, Bright Hauser, to The Hollywood Reporter. She mentioned that he had recently been reliant on an oxygen tank.
Family Legacy
He is survived by his son, actor Cole Hauser, who currently portrays the character Rip Wheeler on the series Yellowstone.
Rise to Fame
Hauser achieved significant recognition for his role as the psychopathic pimp Ramrod in Avco Embassy Pictures’ provocative film Vice Squad (1982), directed by Gary Sherman. In addition to his acting, he performed the film’s theme song, “Neon Slime.”
Diverse Roles and Acclaim
His impactful roles continued with a racist U.S. Army officer in A Soldier’s Story (1984), a cocaine dealer in Jo Jo Dancer, Your Life Is Calling (1986), and a police officer in Tough Guys Don’t Dance (1987), for which he earned a Spirit Award nomination.
Television Career
Hauser’s breakthrough came in 1977 when he joined the cast of the CBS soap opera The Young and the Restless as Greg Foster, a role he held for three seasons before briefly returning in 2010. His television appearances include roles in China Beach, Roseanne, and Beverly Hills, 90210.
Personal Life and Enduring Memory
Born Gerald Dwight Hauser in Hollywood on December 12, 1947, he faced early challenges, including homelessness in the 1970s. His hard work led to a turnaround in his career. His wife, Cali, reflected on their relationship, stating, “I never thought I would ever get married or have a partner until I met Wings.” She pledged to continue their collaborative projects in his honor.
