David Emge–best known to genre fans for his Stephen ‘Flyboy’ Andrews role in George A, Romero’s 1978 classic Dawn of the Dead–passed away this weekend at the age of 77.
Emge’s character in the horror pic was a pilot working for the WGON-TV station who becomes trapped in a shopping mall during a zombie apocalypse–eventually becoming a zombie himself. Following this role, Emge also appeared in the horror pics Basket Case 2 (1990) and Hellmaster (1992).
Emge–according to his memorial page–began his acting career with stage roles at the Pittsburgh Playhouse in 1971, and made his screen debut in the comedy The Booby Hatch. After moving to New York City in 1976, he worked as a chef until he was cast in Dawn of The Dead.
Emge is survived by sisters Sue, Kathleen and Barbara; and several nieces, nephews, great-nieces and great-nephews.
The staff of Horror News Network extends its condolences to Emge’s family, friends and colleagues.
