Remembering Giovanni Lombardo Radice: A Tribute to the Fearless Horror Actor and Writer

I am shocked and dismayed to hear about the passing of Giovanni Lombardo Radice, also known as John Morghen. He was a talented actor who made a name for himself in the horror genre, and his contributions to the industry will not be forgotten.

Radice was born on September 23, 1954, in Rome, Italy. He started his acting career in the late 1970s, appearing in several Italian films. Nonetheless, it was his performance as the drug addict, Ricky, in Ruggero Deodato’s House on the Edge of the Park (1980) alongside the late David Hess, that made him a household name amongst genre fans. He then went on to star in other Italian horror classics, such as Lucio Fulci’s The Gates of Hell (1980), Cannibal Apocalypse (1980), Cannibal Ferox (1981), and in more recent years played a crime boss in Darren Ward’s Beyond Fury (2019).

Radice was known for his intense and fearless performances, often pushing the boundaries of what was deemed acceptable in cinema. He had a raw energy on screen that captivated audiences and made him stand out among his peers. Despite the controversy surrounding some of his films, Radice was always proud of his work and stood by his artistic choices.

In addition to his acting career, Radice was also a talented writer. He wrote the book A Zombie’s Life: Italy’s Whipping Boy Talks Life and Career which provided an in-depth look at his lengthy career. The book was well-received by fans and showcased Radice’s passion and knowledge for acting.

While Radice will always be remembered for his contributions to the horror genre, he also appeared in other notable films outside of the genre. He had a small role in The American Bride (1986) alongside Harvey Keitel and played in several Italian TV movies and series.

In conclusion, Giovanni Lombardo Radice was a talented actor and writer who made a powerful impact on the horror genre. His fearless performances and passion for the art of cinema will be greatly missed. Our thoughts and condolences go out to his family and friends during this difficult time.