Brad Davis, Star of 'Midnight Express,' Dies
Brad Davis, the all-American boy who starred as Billy Hayes in the film "Midnight Express" and originated the role of Ned Weeks in the Broadway production of "The Glass Menagerie," has died.
Davis, who was 41, died of AIDS-related complications on September 8, 1991, in Los Angeles.
Davis was born on November 6, 1949, in Tallahassee, Florida. He began his acting career in the early 1970s, appearing in small roles in films and television shows.
In 1978, Davis landed his breakout role in "Midnight Express." The film, which was based on the true story of Billy Hayes, an American college student who was arrested for smuggling drugs out of Turkey, was a critical and commercial success.
After "Midnight Express," Davis went on to star in a number of other films, including "Querelle" (1982), "The Killing Fields" (1984), and "The Delta Force" (1986).
In 1983, Davis originated the role of Ned Weeks in the Broadway production of "The Glass Menagerie." His performance was praised by critics, and he received a Tony Award nomination for Best Featured Actor in a Play.
In the late 1980s, Davis began to struggle with drug addiction. In 1991, he was diagnosed with AIDS.
Davis's death was a tragic loss for the film and theater community. He was a talented actor who brought a unique combination of charisma and vulnerability to his roles.
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