Cast and crew

Dick Heckard

Photo © Image Ten, Inc. All Rights Reserved.
Photo © Image Ten, Inc. All Rights Reserved.

During the filming of "Night of the Living Dead," Evans City resident Dick Heckard signed up to be in the production and found a unique way to make himself memorable in the movie.

Inspired by the television show "The Rat Patrol," which was being aired around the time Night was being filmed, actor Christopher George sported a distinctive pinned-up cowboy hat, Dick decided to adopt the same look. This choice allowed him to stand out among the other posse members in the film, making him easily recognizable by his black pinned-up cowboy hat.

Years later, while stationed abroad in the military, Dick and his colleagues stumbled upon a cinema screening "Night of the Living Dead." Excited, Dick told his friends, "I was in that movie," but they were skeptical. Confident, Dick bet a small amount of money that he could prove his appearance in the film. After the screening, his friends had no choice but to pay up, and Dick left the theater a few dollars richer.

Today, Dick still resides in Evans City and has been a cherished guest at the annual Living Dead Festival and Living Dead Weekends held there. His contributions to the film and his community are celebrated, with his military veteran banner proudly displayed on Evans City Main Street in front of the old Living Dead Museum location.

The truck featured in the movie belonged to Dave Heckard, the father of Dick Heckard.

Researched and compiled by Daz Sargeant

Text and photos  © Image Ten, Inc.

If you know of any family, friends or acquaintances that appeared as extras in the original Night of the Living Dead, please contact John Vullo at jmv3683@gmail.com

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