The death has taken place in Los Angeles of veteran actor and interpreter of Beckett’s work, Alan Mandell. In a long and varied career Mandell became most closely associated with Beckett following his involvement in a 1957 production of Waiting for Godot acted by inmates in San Quentin prison. He later took part in Beckett productions by the San Quentin Drama Workshop, founded by Rick Cluchey, including the 1980 European tour of Endgame and Krapp’s Last Tape which Beckett directed himself. Continuing his interest in the author, he later appeared alongside Barry McGovern in notable Beckett productions. Friendly with both Beckett and Harold Pinter, Mandell was also renowned for his work with Arthur Miller, as well for his film work with Peter Bogdanovich and the Coen Brothers among others. Still working into his 90s and still keen on sharing his enthusiasm for the work, Alan agreed to take part in the Samuel Beckett Society conference held in Los Angeles in 2024 but regrettably had to withdraw at the last minute because of health issues. His presence was sadly missed.
His passing is noted with sadness and regret by the Samuel Beckett community.
A recording of San Quentin Workshop’s 1988 Waiting for Godot with Alan Mandell as Lucky can be viewed here
