Born Stefan Andrew Ihnat, he was known as the almost-perfect Hollywood villain. His family moved to Canada when he was a young boy and he grew up near Hamilton, Ontario where he went to school. Our research has learned that Steve Ihnat had his mind set on an acting career from an early age and moved to Hollywood in 1958. Most people who remember him comment on how strong he was as the “heavy” in 1968’s Madigan opposite Richard Widmark. Had the rare ability to turn a one-dimensional stereotype into a multi-dimensional character, and possessed a marvellous speaking voice that could imbue even the most banal dialogue with emotion, interest, and charm. Steve Ihnat was just 37 when he died in France of a heart attack. He is buried at the Westwood Memorial Park in Hollywood.
Features & TV Movies:
VR indicates Direct-to-Video Release
Dragstrip Riot (1958)
Date Bait (1960)
Strike Me Deadly (1963)
Passion Street, U.S.A. (1964)
Brainstorm (1965)
The Chase (1966)
Hour of the Gun (1967)
In Like Flint (1967)
Madigan (1968)
Countdown (1968)
Kona Coast (1968)
The Whole World is Watching (TV-1969)
Do Not Throw Cushions Into the Ring (also Directed, 1970)
D.A.: Conspiracy to Kill (TV-1970)
Zigzag (1970)
Sweet, Sweet Rachel (TV-1971)
Fuzz (1972)
Hunter (TV-1973)
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First published as Northernstars.net February 1, 1998
ISSN 2563 4895