We were very saddened to wake up this morning to learn that Victor Spinetti, co-star in all The Beatles movies, passed away yesterday (6/18) at the age of 82. Victor was known and loved by all Beatles fans, as the Hyper Director in A Hard Day’s Night, the Scientist in Help, and the fast talking Sergeant in Magical Mystery Tour. He wasn’t just an actor in their movies, he became a dear friend of The Beatles and very much a part of their inner circle. Victor was a Special Guest at many FESTS over the years. His energy level and the way he told those Beatles stories was unmatched. He was a born actor and it showed. When we invited him to our first Last Vegas FEST in 2007, he was so excited, he said yes immediately. He also joined us a month later in Chicago and he insisted on traveling from the west coast to Chicago by train so he could enjoy the countryside. The gift of being able to get to know him on a personal level will live with us always, as we are sure all who did get to meet him feel the same way. With all the karma and showmanship that was Victor Spinetti, it figures he would take his final bow on Paul’s 70th birthday. He will be greatly missed.
The Original & Longest Running Beatles Celebration, Since 1974!
What a sad end to a glorious 70th for Sir Paul’s b-day. Rest in Peace Victor you will always be the “fast talking seargant” to me or the mime in Wings “London Town” video, as well as your best known roles in AHDN and Help. RIP Victor, you were one of my favorite Fest guests!
Very sorry to hear about this. Met Victor twice thanks to your having him here as a guest. A delightful man who loved his fans and was loved right back. We will always remember Victor.
“I could listen to him for hours.”
I met Victor back in the 60’s invited me and my girlfriends to his hotel where he bought us tea and cookies. We met him at his hotel the next year and took photos of him and celebrated his birthday with him. He was funny, and such a wonderful person.
I will miss him. I thought of him so often. Now he’s hanging out with the best. God bless u Victor.
Happy Birthday Paul.
What a shame!!! Even though I never met the man personally at any fest, (I’m not a big fan of getting autographs), I always admired his whimsical energy while performing. I think that’s why the Beatles were very fond of him, because his performing style reminded them so much of what they used to enjoy in The Goon show. It’s funny…he reminded me so much of John Cleese of Monty Python. Maybe that’s why George became so attached to the Python group and helped on the film Time Bandits, and even gave his song Dream Away for the film. I dare anyone to even try his fast-talking part in Magical Mystery Tour. I think even Paul was taken aback by his performance, with that silly grin. He couldn’t get a word in edgewise 🙂 It’s one of the better parts of the film. Victor will definately be missed!!! “It’s the brain drain….his brain is draining!” 🙂