Veteran actors John McCook, 82, and Jerry Lacy, 90, known for their decades-long careers in television, were recently seen taking a stroll together in Los Angeles. The two actors, who have maintained a close friendship for many years, fit the description of classic leading men from their heyday in the 1960s and 1970s.
McCook, who has played the role of Eric Forrester on the CBS soap opera "The Bold and the Beautiful" since its premiere in 1987, is a fixture on the show. His character is a fashion designer and patriarch known for his creative endeavors and complex romantic entanglements. McCook's performance as Forrester earned him his first Daytime Emmy Award for Outstanding Lead Actor in a Drama Series in 2022, after several previous nominations. He has expressed no intention of leaving the show, stating his enjoyment of his role and his desire to continue working as long as possible.
Lacy, eight years McCook's senior, is widely recognized by cult television fans and soap opera enthusiasts for his multiple roles on the gothic serial "Dark Shadows." He portrayed five distinct characters on the show between 1967 and 1971, appearing in over 100 episodes. His most memorable role is often considered to be Reverend Trask, a zealous witch-hunter. Lacy also famously played Humphrey Bogart in Woody Allen's 1972 film "Play It Again, Sam" and reprised the role on Broadway. He has also had guest appearances on numerous other television series and appeared in several films.
While McCook and Lacy have never co-starred in a production together, their friendship originated through shared connections in the entertainment industry. Their recent public appearance in Los Angeles showcased their enduring camaraderie, with both actors appearing to still possess a notable presence despite their advanced age. McCook was seen engaging in conversation, at one point gesturing with his arm, while Lacy listened. McCook also appeared to do some shopping during the outing.
McCook's earlier career included a role as Lance Prentiss on "The Young and the Restless" from 1975 to 1980. Lacy also appeared on "The Young and the Restless" from 1979 to 1982 as Jonas, and had roles in other daytime dramas such as "As the World Turns" and "Love of Life."