Anthony Hamilton was an iconic actor on the rise to stardom in the late 1980s. At the height of his career, he passed away in 1995 at the age of only 42. Now, years later, James Grant, who worked as the chief of a major magazine, has opened up about their close friendship before the actor's death.
James Grant Talks About Anthony Hamilton on the Actor's 74th Birthday
Anthony Hamilton would have turned 74 years old earlier this month. James Grant, former chief of Life Magazine, remembered his late friend in a social media post, writing, 'Happy Birthday in Heaven Tony Hamilton. Tony was hilarious and a loyal friend of mine for over 15 years.' In an interview with PEOPLE, Grant described Hamilton as a character on his own and a great person altogether. 'He was wildly handsome in that unusual classic movie star way, almost an old-fashioned movie star kind of way. He was a total character,' Grant said.
James Grant Opens Up About His Last Meeting with Anthony Hamilton
Grant also shared details of their last meeting before Hamilton's passing in 1995. They met when the actor was selling his condo estate. 'He hadn't been working a lot. He looked great, he appeared to be in good health, and then I stopped hearing from him, and, you know, I reached out maybe once. I should have reached out that second time. That's what you're supposed to do,' Grant added.
What Happened to Anthony Hamilton
Anthony Hamilton died in March 1995 at age 42 from AIDS-related pneumonia. The news surprised many, as Hamilton had kept his diagnosis private. Grant only learned of the diagnosis after Hamilton's death. Born on May 4, 1952, Hamilton began his career as a model and ballet dancer with The Australian Ballet. He transitioned to acting and gained critical acclaim with 'Samson and Delilah.' He was later cast as the lead in the TV series 'Cover Up' after the original lead, Jon-Erik Hexum, died in an on-set accident. Other major roles included 'Jumpin' Jack Flash,' 'The Charmings,' 'The Twilight Zone,' 'Mission: Impossible,' and 'P.S. I Luv U.'
