Whitney Rydbeck, a gifted actor best known for his role in “Friday the 13th Part VI: Jason Lives,” has passed away at the age of 79. He died on Monday in hospice care in Chatsworth, California, after battling complications from prostate cancer.

The news of Rydbeck’s passing was confirmed by Tommy McLoughlin, the director of the iconic sixth installment of the “Friday the 13th” series. In a heartfelt Instagram tribute, McLoughlin described Rydbeck as not just a talented actor and comedian but also a warm and genuine person. Reflecting on their time together, he wrote, “God Bless You and Rest in Peace, Whitney Rydbeck. Our loss is truly Heaven’s gain.”

Born and raised in Los Angeles, Rydbeck pursued his passion for acting from an early age. He attended Pasadena High School, Pasadena City College, and later Cal State Fullerton, where he honed his skills in theater. His journey in entertainment began in 1970 with an appearance on “Nanny and the Professor.” Over the years, he charmed audiences with roles in popular TV shows like “The Brady Bunch,” “MAS*H,” and “Monster Squad.” He also made his mark in movies such as “Love at First Bite,” “Rocky II,” and Steven Spielberg’s “1941.”

Rydbeck’s portrayal of Roy, the ill-fated paintball soldier in “Friday the 13th Part VI: Jason Lives,” remains one of his most recognized roles. In the film, Roy’s valiant attempt to stand up to the infamous Jason Voorhees ends in tragedy, leaving an indelible mark on fans of the franchise.

Beyond acting, Rydbeck became widely recognized during the 1980s for his role as “Larry,” a crash test dummy in public service announcements promoting seat belt safety. These memorable ads highlighted the dangers of not wearing seat belts and concluded with the iconic line, “You could learn a lot from a dummy. Buckle your safety belt.” Rydbeck often credited his mime training for the role, humorously recalling the challenges of wearing the masks required during filming.

Rydbeck’s career spanned decades, with appearances in popular TV series like “7th Heaven,” “Star Trek: The Next Generation,” and “Murder, She Wrote.” He also lent his talents to films such as “Oliver & Company” and “A Very Brady Sequel.” After starring in the short film “The Oates’ Valor” in 2007, he retired from acting to become a drama teacher at Pasadena City College, sharing his knowledge and passion with aspiring actors.

Whitney Rydbeck leaves behind a legacy of memorable performances and a reputation for kindness and generosity. His contributions to television, film, and public awareness will continue to resonate with fans and colleagues alike. May his soul rest in peace.