Hollywood mourns the passing of the actor who defined 1970s counterculture cinema with his portrayal of death-obsessed Harold.

Bud Cort, the actor whose wide-eyed, melancholy performance in the cult classic Harold and Maude endeared him to generations of misfits, has died at the age of 77. Cort passed away in Connecticut following a long illness, leaving behind a legacy that defies the typical Hollywood trajectory.

The Face of Outsider Cinema

Discovered by Robert Altman, Cort’s career was defined by his role as Harold, a young man who drives a hearse and falls in love with a 79-year-old woman. The film, initially a flop, grew into a cultural phenomenon, its message of living life to the fullest resonating with audiences for over five decades. "He didn't just play Harold; he inhabited the soul of everyone who has ever felt out of place," said a film historian.

Cort’s career also included memorable turns in M*A*S*H and Brewster McCloud, but he famously resisted typecasting, often turning down roles that sought to replicate the Harold persona. His later work, including roles in The Life Aquatic with Steve Zissou, showcased his enduring quirkiness and depth.

• The Legacy: Harold and Maude remains one of the most beloved romantic comedies of all time.
• The Life: Cort was a private figure who let his work speak for itself.
• The Tributes: Fellow actors and directors have flooded social media with tributes to his unique talent.

Farewell to a Gentle Soul

Bud Cort’s death marks the end of an era for the New Hollywood wave of the 1970s. He brought a vulnerability to the screen that was rare and revolutionary. As fans rewatch Harold and Maude this week, the film’s closing Cat Stevens song, "If You Want to Sing Out, Sing Out," will ring with a poignant new meaning.