Rest in Peace: N. Brock Winkless IV
It took a lot of people to bring Chucky to life in the various Child’s Play films, including doll designer Kevin Yagher, stunt performer Ed Gale, and voice actor Brad Dourif. And then there was the team of puppeteers, which included effects artist N. Brock Winkless IV.
Make-up Artist Magazine broke the sad news today that Winkless passed away on July 18th at the age of 56, due to complications from a debilitating neurological condition that caused him rising levels of discomfort and lack of muscular control for more than 15 years.
Per the website, Winkless was one of the few people who understood and excelled at lipsyncing a puppet’s mouth and jaw movements, which made him invaluable for projects such as the Child’s Play series as well as the Crypt Keeper character from the “Tales from the Crypt” TV show.
Winkless collaborated with some of the best artists in motion picture make-up and effects, including Dave Nelson and Norman Tempia’s Animated FX Inc., Rick Baker’s Cinovation Studios, and the Stan Winston Studio. However, he is probably best known for his association with make-up artist/director Kevin Yagher.
Said Yagher: “Sometimes the kindest of people are struck with hardship and suffering. I ask myself ‘Why… why them?’ Brock Winkless was one of those. Not only a man of many talents, he was a soft-spoken, thoughtful, and gentle human being with a unique sense of humor. It was simply my utmost pleasure and an absolute honor to know him. I know that everyone who knew Brock will miss him dearly. May God bless Brock Winkless. I love you, brother.”
In addition to Child’s Play 1-3 and Bride of Chucky, other credits on Winkless’ resume include Terminator 2: Judgement Day, Alien 3, Congo, and Bordello of Blood.
We here at Dread Central would like to take this time to offer our sincerest of condolences to Brock’s friends, family, and constituents. Rest easy, friend.
Categorized:News
