Three actors from Dark Shadow also performed in ground breaking theater productions for their portrayal of gay life.
Joel Crothers - January 28, 1941 – November 6, 1985
Dark Shadows - 166 episodes as Joe Haskell & Nathan Forbes
In 1982, Crothers originated the role of Ed Reiss, the lover of Harvey Fierstein’s character Arnold. At the time, brothers was the best known actor in the cast due to his work in Dark Shadows and other soap opera, so he got top billing.
Keith Prentice - February 21, 1940 –September 27, 1992
Dark Shadows - 40 episodes as Morgan Collins
In 1968, Prentice was in the original cast of The Boys in the Band, as Larry, "extremely handsome" commercial artist who prefers multiple sex partners. He also appeared in the 1970 film directed by William Friedkin.
Christopher Bernau - June 2, 1940 – June 14, 1989
Dark Shadows - 23 episodes as Phillip Todd
When Prentice left the office-Broadway production of The Boys in the Band, Bernau replaced in in the role of Larry. He continued in the role until the show closed in 1970.
Sadly, all three actors died before their time due to AIDS.
