Charles Dierkop, the beloved character actor known for his role as outlaw George ‘Flat Nose’ Curry in the iconic Western film Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid, has died at the age of 87. His daughter Lynn confirmed that he passed away on Sunday (February 25) at Sherman Oaks Hospital in Los Angeles, following a heart attack and pneumonia.
Born in La Crosse, Wisconsin in 1936, Dierkop served in the US military during the Korean War. After his discharge, he pursued his passion for acting by enrolling in the American Foundation of Dramatic Arts in Philadelphia and eventually making his way to Hollywood.
Dierkop’s notable filmography includes his roles alongside Paul Newman and Robert Redford in the renowned caper film The Sting, as well as the police procedural Police Woman, starring Angie Dickinson.
In a recent interview, Dierkop shared how his unique appearance played a significant role in landing him the role of Flat Nose Curry. Having broken his nose multiple times as a child, Dierkop’s agent came across a script that mentioned the character Flat Nose Curry. It immediately caught his attention, and he was cast after a successful interview with director George Roy Hill.
Dierkop was married to Joan Addis, whom he met at the American Foundation of Dramatic Arts, from 1958 until their divorce in 1974. The couple had two children, Charles Jr and Lynn. Tragically, their son Charles Jr passed away in 1990 at the age of 29.
Charles Dierkop’s portrayal of Flat Nose Curry will forever be etched in the hearts of movie enthusiasts. His contribution to the world of cinema will always be remembered and cherished.